Patient Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Depression with High HIV Viral Load Presenting for Evaluation of Root Caries

A 26-year-old man living with HIV and depression presents with symptoms of tooth sensitivity. His laboratory studies are all within normal limits except for a high viral load. The patient does not require any special dental management protocol and should be treated like other patients, with his laboratory studies reviewed every 6 months to 1 year. HIV is now a chronic medical conditions, with most patients having stable disease if they are compliant with their medications. Universal infection control protocols should be followed for all patients regardless of their HIV status.