[AIDS primer for stomatologists on the basis of a literature survey]

On the basis of a literature survey, mainly of two American periodicals from 1987 the epidemiology, manifestations and treatment of AIDS patients are discussed with particular reference to the changes development on oral mucosa and to the treatment of these changes. The knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of stomatologists towards the risk-group patients and AIDS patients are discussed on the basis of the results of an inquiry with participation of 541 dentists from California. The degree of risk of infection of stomatologists and medical personnel with HIV during treatment of AIDS patients is discussed for protection of the dentists and auxiliary personnel the use is recommended of rubber gloves, masks and protective goggles during work. It is thought generally in the light of our knowledge up to now that the possibility of HIV infection during the work of dentists is low, lower than in the case of hepatitis virus B infection if the basic hygiene principles and caution are observed.