Introduction: Due to advances in HIV treatment, people diagnosed with HIV live better and longer. Hence the number of HIV-positive patients in need of professional and compassionate dental care is increasing. Dental care is important for detecting HIV infection. The first signs of HIV infection usually appear in the oral cavity. Furthermore, dental care is very important for monitoring the progression of the disease. Despite the importance of dental care, people living with HIV face a major problem due to the stigma which exists among health professionals, especially in dentistry. Due to societal fear of contagious infection, lack of information, and lack of acceptance of difference, they are often the target of stereotyping, prejudice and discriminatory treatment. Purpose: The aim of this thesis is to highlight the violations which people with HIV face in dental treatment, to present the causes of these violations, and to describe the activities needed to reduce stigma and discrimination against them in dentistry. Methods: The diploma thesis is based on a descriptive method of reviewing domestic and foreign professional and scientific literature. The literature was limited to the period from 2009 to 2019, and later the period was increased from 1992 until the time when the thesis was completed. Remote access to Medline, PubMed, Cinahl databases was used for the research. Furthermore, Google web browser and Google Scholar were used. Keywords used in the literature search: hiv, stigma, dentistry, oral care, discrimination. Results: Despite clear legislation, people with HIV often experience resistance and rejection by health professionals in dental treatment. Dentists are reluctant to treat them due to excessive fear of infection, lack of knowledge and negative attitudes. Discussion and conclusion: People with HIV experience various violations in dental treatment, such as; denial of dental care, harassment, and disrespect of privacy. Ethical treatment requires more than the expertise and practical skills of the dentist; it requires comprehensive support. Humane treatment is needed, including the creation of a safe environment and appropriate communication. In conclusion, it is necessary to form positive attitudes of health professionals towards people with HIV through education and awareness-raising.
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