Pattern of utilization of dental services and oral self-care practices of people living with HIV/AIDS in two tertiary health institutions in Nigeria

Background: People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) have a high risk of oral health problems. However, little is known about their utilization of oral health services in Nigeria. Objectives: The aims of this study were to determine utilization of dental services and oral hygiene practices among PLWHA attending two tertiary health institutions. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study among PLWHA attending HIV clinics in two teaching hospitals in South West and South South Nigeria. Information obtained using self-administered structured questionnaires included questions on pattern of dental services' utilization and oral hygiene behavior. P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Three hundred and fifty-two (352) PLWHA participated. Mean age was 42.5 ± 9.4 years, 64.2% were females, and 36.9% were of middle socioeconomic status (SES). Previous dental visits (36.9%) were associated with perception of dental need, center of study, and SES (P < 0.05). Odds of utilizing dental health services were higher among those who perceived they needed dental care (odds ratio: 4.12; 95% confidence interval: 2.13–7.96). Eighty-eight (25%) had visited the dentist in the preceding 12 months and received dental treatment in the form of extraction (64.4%), routine dental check (13.8%), and scaling and polishing (5.8%). Lack of perceived dental need and financial limitations were the main barriers for lack of dental visits. Twice daily tooth brushing was practiced by 40.1% of the respondents. Conclusion: Utilization of the dental services among PLWHA was low and influenced by self-perception of dental need, study center, and higher SES. Oral hygiene practices were less than optimal.