Information

Mouth Care

Problems with the mouth are common in HIV infection and include infections that will not go away e.g. night fever. Careful attention to the mouth will prevent pain and increase the desire to eat and drink, which is very important. The following ideas will help you to not only prevent problems, but also treat existing conditions in the mouth.

Keep the Mouth Clean Everyday

• Brush in the morning and at night. Be gentle and use a soft brush
• Glycerine on a washcloth may also be used to clean the mouth
• If it is too painful to brush, use a rinse instead e.g.
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon Baking soda
  • 2 mint leaves for taste
• Do not use mouthwashes that contain alcohol. These are very painful if there are sores in the mouth
• Drink lots of water. It helps to keep the mouth clean and free of food particles

Take Care of Sores in the Mouth

• Take a slice of lime and suck on it to help the gumminess of thrush
• Take dentures out. They can cause pain and infection
• Night fever should be kept moist so that it doesn't crack and bleed. Use Vaseline or Gentian Violet on lips to moisten and protect sores
• For dry mouth, rinse regularly and suck on an icy mint or ice to stimulate saliva (spit)
• Avoid smoking and alcohol