World Oral Health Day 2026: What Every HHT Patient Should Know About Dental Care
For people living with HHT, dental care is about more than a clean smile. This World Oral Health Day, learn why oral health can be life-saving — and what to tell your dentist.
World Oral Health Day 2026 Your Mouth. Your Health. Your HHT.
World Oral Health Day, marked every year on 20 March, shines a light on the vital connection between oral health and overall wellbeing. For people living with Hereditary Haemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT), that connection goes deeper than most.
Telangiectases — the small, fragile blood vessel malformations that characterise HHT — can appear in the mouth, on the tongue, lips, gums, inner cheeks, and palate. These are not just a cosmetic concern. They can bleed during routine dental procedures, and for patients with pulmonary AVMs (lung arteriovenous malformations), certain dental treatments carry a risk of serious infection reaching the brain or other organs.
This is why oral health is a priority issue for the HHT community — and why your dentist needs to know your diagnosis.
🦷 Telangiectases in the mouth Oral telangiectases are common in HHT. They can appear from your 30s onward and bleed with minimal irritation — including during brushing, flossing, or dental work.
⚠️ Dental procedures and HHT risk Some dental procedures can introduce bacteria into the bloodstream. For HHT patients with pulmonary AVMs, this carries a risk of brain abscess. Always inform your dental team about your HHT diagnosis before any procedure.
💬 Tell your dentist Many dental professionals are unfamiliar with HHT. Download our HHT Information for Your Dentist guide and bring it to your next appointment. It could make all the difference.
🦷 Little Red is in the dentist’s chair — are you due a visit?
World Oral Health Day is the perfect reminder to book that check-up! If you have HHT, just remember to let your dental team know before any procedure. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
Got Lung AVMs? Don’t Forget Your Antibiotics!
HHT patients with pulmonary AVMs need antibiotic cover before dental procedures. Bacteria entering the bloodstream during dental work can cause serious infection. Talk to your HHT specialist before your next dental visit — and always make sure your dentist knows your diagnosis.
Looking after your oral health with HHT
Good oral hygiene is the first line of defence. Gentle brushing, regular check-ups, and open communication with your dental team are essential steps every HHT patient can take right now.