Hepatitis is an inflammatory disease affecting the liver. It’s most often contracted virally, but there are some other causes such as autoimmune diseases, infections, and exposure to toxic substances. Viral hepatitis can be easily spread through close personal contact, and it can be acute or chronic depending on the severity and treatment.
There are various types of the hepatitis virus with Hepatitis A (HAV), Hepatitis B (HBV), and Hepatitis C (HCV) being the most common.
Hepatitis A: HAV is spread through close human contact (i.e. feces) or by the consumption of contaminated food and drink. These acute infections are usually mild and can go away on their own. There is an HAV vaccine available.
Hepatitis B: HBV can be transmitted via bodily fluids (blood, saliva, semen). Sharing dirty needles from drug use can lead to infection. HBV can also be passed along from mother to baby during childbirth. There is an HBV vaccine available.
Hepatitis C: HCV is one of the most common blood-borne viral infections and causes of liver disease in the United States. It can be spread through blood and other bodily fluids. This type of Hepatitis often progresses to a chronic condition, which can lead to complications. Unfortunately, there is no HCV vaccine available at this time.
Common symptoms for all types of Hepatitis include the following:
- Aching joints
- Dark urine
- Fatigue
- Jaundice
- Lack of nutrition
- Loss of appetite
- Low-grade fever
- Nausea and stomach pain
- Pale or clay-colored stool
Hepatitis & Oral Health
Out of the several types of the Hepatitis virus, Hepatitis C and its ill effects on oral health have been studied the most. Patients with HCV are prone to tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease. Saliva reduction is often a symptom of HCV, which can be a contributing factor to both cavities and gum disease. Hepatitis C has been known to cause cancer, including cancers of the head, neck, and oral cavity.
Hepatitis is a systemic disease, and evidence shows that symptoms of systemic diseases can be seen in the mouth. Sometimes the following signs of liver disease can be detected during an oral exam: bleeding and clotting disorders, gingivitis, gum disease, jaundice of the mucus membranes, and oral sores.
Patients suffering from Hepatitis should inform their dentist prior to receiving any dental treatments. The dental team will make notes in the patient’s file regarding details of the virus such as severity, type, and medications. In the event that a patient’s health could be comprised, dental work might need to be postponed until any health concerns are addressed with the physician overseeing the virus.
Preventing Transmission
Individuals working in the healthcare and dental fields should take extra precautions when caring for patients with Hepatitis. This includes following standard safety procedures of wearing protective barriers (eyewear, gloves, masks) and handling sharp tools with caution. Disinfection and sterilization of all dental equipment and surfaces is extremely important to prevent contamination since the Hepatitis virus can survive on surfaces for several days.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding Hepatitis and oral health, call us at 954-344-4488, or complete an online appointment request to schedule your consultation.