Can Periodontal Disease Act as a Risk Factor for HIV-1 Reactivation?

HIV infection is global health problem of unprecedented dimensions. Periodontal diseases are associated with HIV infection and involvement has been suspected specifically for HIV virus. Reports of increased prevalence of chronic periodontitis in HIV-positive subjects suggest that HIV infection predispose to Periodontitis. But on the contrary, current literature suggests that the course of HIV infection is also modified by the periodontal conditions. Research needs to be done regarding the HIV infection and periodontal health inter-relationship, as it can help in better understanding and treatment by the Periodontist.