HIV patients get dental clinic
Oct 19, 2006
THE first-ever dental clinic for people living with HIV/AIDS in Uganda was opened yesterday at Mildmay Centre on Entebbe road.
By Carol Natukunda
THE first-ever dental clinic for people living with HIV/AIDS in Uganda was opened yesterday at Mildmay Centre on Entebbe road.
The clinic, worth sh34m, was funded by the British High Commission’s small grants scheme.
Opening the clinic on Wednesday, the consul, John Hamilton, said oral problems could be an indication of HIV progression.
“I was not really aware of the particular dental problems HIV-positive people can face, of the importance of good dentistry practise in detection and management of HIV-positive people. But I have now learnt that oral problems may be the first indication of HIV and may serve as a good barometer of HIV progression,†he said.
Dentaid, a UK-based charity, provided and installed the clinic’s equipment and trained the staff. Dental services will be provided free to all Midmay’s 3,500 patients.
Mildmay’s executive director, Dr. Emmanuel Luyirika, appealed to the staff to maintain the equipment.
Hamilton said, “Many oral manifestations can put a strain on your immune system, which can be a cause for concern in an otherwise healthy person but for someone with HIV, it can cause many other problems.
“I have learnt that ARVs can cause dryness in the mouth that can then cause gum disease, tooth decay and other dental problems.â€
Ends
THE first-ever dental clinic for people living with HIV/AIDS in Uganda was opened yesterday at Mildmay Centre on Entebbe road.
The clinic, worth sh34m, was funded by the British High Commission’s small grants scheme.
Opening the clinic on Wednesday, the consul, John Hamilton, said oral problems could be an indication of HIV progression.
“I was not really aware of the particular dental problems HIV-positive people can face, of the importance of good dentistry practise in detection and management of HIV-positive people. But I have now learnt that oral problems may be the first indication of HIV and may serve as a good barometer of HIV progression,†he said.
Dentaid, a UK-based charity, provided and installed the clinic’s equipment and trained the staff. Dental services will be provided free to all Midmay’s 3,500 patients.
Mildmay’s executive director, Dr. Emmanuel Luyirika, appealed to the staff to maintain the equipment.
Hamilton said, “Many oral manifestations can put a strain on your immune system, which can be a cause for concern in an otherwise healthy person but for someone with HIV, it can cause many other problems.
“I have learnt that ARVs can cause dryness in the mouth that can then cause gum disease, tooth decay and other dental problems.â€
Ends