Recognition of HIV/AIDS-associated oral lesions by the dental team

The abilities of dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants to recognize HIV/AIDS-associated intraoral lesions were examined and compared. Subjects who were attending a regional dental meeting were shown six color photographs (2.5 in x 3.5 in) and asked to determine what condition might be depicted. There were no significant differences in scores between the dentists and dental hygienists, while dental assistants had significantly poorer scores than both groups. Recognition scores for all groups indicate that dental health professionals may not be adequately recognizing the oral clinical manifestations of HIV/AIDS infection. This should receive greater emphasis both in the school setting and in the continuing education arena.