October 2002
Our Smiles

This is how we usually show others that we are happy or pleased or that we like them. It is also what makes many of us want to have good teeth. But the health of our teeth and mouth are much more important than just having a nice smile. There are many infections that can enter our bodies through our mouth, especially if we have sores, cuts, gum disease or loose teeth. This is one of the most important reasons to take care of your mouth. Many people have asked if HIV can be passed on by oral sex. The best answer to date on this question is: “It depends”.

The thing it most depends on is the condition of your mouth. Studies done to date on this topic have shown that the possibility of infection is higher for individuals giving oral sex than for those that are receiving it. This is true especially if you have problems in your mouth that open up avenues for the virus to enter into your blood stream. This is true for all types of infections. A few things you might not have thought of as causing paths of infection are brushing your teeth and flossing. They both cause tiny cut in your gums but are necessary for good oral hygiene. It is a very good idea not to brush or floss before you have oral sex. Also not taking cum or vaginal fluid into your mouth helps limit exposure. Of course if you use a condom or barrier during oral sex the risk of contracting any infection or germ is very low. The reality is that giving head is a risk but still a very low-risk behavior, no studies I can find have looked at vaginal fluids and the transmission of infections passed on during oral sex but I feel the risk would probably be comparable. Here are a few easy suggestions to help you keep your mouth and the rest of your body in good health.

• Brush your teeth every day with soft bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste.(Not right before you have sex)
• Floss regularly (not to soon before or after oral sex though)
• Check your gums and teeth often for signs of dental problems.
• Drink lots of water, keeps your mouth moist. (8 glasses a day, especially if you are on anything that causes dry mouth like medications)
• Try not to eat or drink things with high sugar content. (Candy and sodas for example)
• See a dentist every six months for a check up and cleaning. (There are sliding scale Dental Clinics and ones that take medical coupons or Medicare) If you have problemsfinding a dental clinic, please check with ACAP, BABES or STEP.

Our nice smiles help us feel good about ourselves and how we look. It is also obvious that there are more reasons to keep our mouths in good health. Good oral hygiene and health helps to keep our whole body in better health and can help reduce the risks of infection and disease.

From cavities to STDs, take care of your mouth and it will help take care of you. Erica

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