When you’re taking ritonavir, a potent antiretroviral drug used to treat HIV by boosting other medications. Also known as a HIV protease inhibitor booster, it’s a cornerstone of many HIV treatment plans—but it doesn’t just work on the virus. It also changes your mouth in ways most doctors don’t warn you about. Many people on ritonavir notice dry mouth, gum swelling, or even tooth decay without knowing why. This isn’t just bad luck. It’s a direct side effect.
Oral side effects, common reactions to HIV drugs that impact the mouth, gums, and teeth. Also known as antiretroviral-associated oral complications, they’re often dismissed as minor. But for someone on long-term ritonavir, these aren’t minor. Dry mouth reduces saliva, which normally washes away acids and bacteria. Without enough saliva, cavities form faster, gums get inflamed, and fungal infections like thrush take hold. Studies show up to 60% of people on ritonavir report noticeable oral changes within the first year. And it’s not just about discomfort. Poor dental health can lead to tooth loss, difficulty eating, and even hospital visits. This isn’t something you can ignore.
Antiretroviral drugs, medications that stop HIV from multiplying, often come with hidden trade-offs. Also known as HIV treatment regimens, they save lives—but they also change your body chemistry. Ritonavir, in particular, affects how your liver processes sugars and fats, which can increase sugar levels in saliva. That’s a feast for cavity-causing bacteria. Plus, some people on ritonavir take other drugs that also cause dry mouth, compounding the problem. You’re not just fighting one issue—you’re managing a chain reaction. So what do you do? Brushing harder won’t fix it. You need a smart, consistent plan: drink water constantly, use fluoride toothpaste, avoid sugary snacks, and see a dentist who understands HIV meds—not just a general practitioner. Some patients swear by sugar-free xylitol gum to stimulate saliva. Others use prescription-strength fluoride rinses. These aren’t optional extras—they’re part of your treatment.
What you’ll find below are real, practical guides from people who’ve been there. From how secnidazole helps with gum infections caused by HIV meds, to how to spot early signs of oral thrush before it gets bad. You’ll see comparisons between dental care routines for people on ritonavir versus other HIV drugs. You’ll learn what foods to avoid, what products actually work, and how to talk to your dentist so they don’t overlook the root cause. This isn’t theory. It’s what works for people taking ritonavir right now.
Ritonavir can cause dry mouth, thrush, and gum problems. Learn practical steps to protect your teeth and gums while taking this HIV medication, including daily habits, what to avoid, and when to see your dentist.
