First Private Practice Dentist to Offer HIV Testing Acknowledges World AIDS Day!

Nov. 28, 2012 - PRLog -- December 1st is World AIDS Day, a day of global observance created so people could unite in the fight against HIV. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1.1 million people in the United States are infected with HIV and 232,700 don’t know it. To combat the spread of HIV, and generate awareness on the importance of being tested and knowing one’s status, medical professionals have begun implementing innovative new ways like the dental clinics, dental schools, and now private dental offices to make HIV more accessible and convenient.

New York City Cosmetic and General Dentistry owner Dr. Catrise Austin made groundbreaking history when she became the first private practice dentist, who was also certified and trained, in the nation to offer HIV testing.  The HIV test is quick, painless, and is routinely offered during her dental patient's six month checkup and cleaning visits. Dr. Catrise Austin wants people of New York, and around the world, to know that they have a free and confidential resource, regardless of finances, for HIV testing at her office.

“One of the first signs and symptoms of HIV appears in the mouth, so dentists have a unique opportunity to play a significant role in detecting HIV and championing rapid HIV testing. I offer free HIV testing to anyone who wants a test, regardless if they are my patient or not. With the test being administered for free, it takes away the excuse for patients to say no,” said Dr. Austin. “I am also very excited that this year the OraQuick home HIV testing kit is being made available. The OraQuick home testing product is a HUGE step towards helping people know their status. Perhaps with the test being conducted at home, in a private and familiar setting, more people will get tested!”

“World AIDS day is about awareness. It's been over 30 years since we first learned about this disease and unfortunately the stats are not improving after all of this time. People hear “HIV” and still have associated misconceptions. Actually, patients who are positive can receive proper treatment and continue to live long, somewhat healthy lives.”

Dr. Austin now speaks professionally to medical professionals, dentists, and organizations across the country on the importance of HIV testing and how to recognize oral signs and symptoms of HIV. Additionally, October 2009 marked the release of Dr. Austin’s book, “5 Steps to the Hollywood A-List Smile,” published by Morgan James Publishing. A portion of the proceeds are still donated to Hope’s Voice International (www.hopesvoice.org), an HIV and AIDS organization committed to promoting the education, prevention and the end of stigma of HIV and AIDS among young adults.

About: Dr. Catrise Austin is a trailblazing expert in the field of dentistry. She is the author of a dental consumer book “5 Steps to the Hollywood A-List Smile”, a professional speaker, spokesperson, entrepreneur, and founder of NYC Cosmetic and General Dentistry (Formerly VIP Smiles)-a modern dental practice in New York City. Dr. Austin has solidified her reputation with national TV appearances, such as appearances on the “Today Show”, “Good Morning America,” and VH1’s “Love and Hip Hop”, among others. Her signature services include Celebrity/Concierge Dentistry, 1 hour teeth whitening, HIV testing, Comprehensive exams and more! More information on Dr. Austin and NYC Cosmetic and General Dentistry can be obtained by clicking here: http://nyccgd.com/services/celebrity-and-concierge-dentis...

CONTACTS:

Dr. Catrise Austin
New York City Cosmetic and General Dentistry
119 W. 57th Street
Suite 512
New York, NY 10019
212-262-6054

Helene Vece, JumpStart Ink
702-409-1282