There are three important dental issues for patients to consider - the special dental concerns of hepatitis patients, the risk of transmission to the dentist (which is greatly decreased due to a safe vaccine), and the strict dental requirements for the patient who needs a transplant. In many cases, poor dental health can result in a patient being rejected for a liver transplant. For example, patients with viral hepatitis who are on antidepressants can develop xerostomia, or dry mouth, which can increase the risk of cavities (saliva helps protect teeth from bacteria). Hepatitis Magazine, July-Sept. 2005.

BInformed, Fall 2005.