The task force concludes that persons with AIDS and the AIDS virus can safely be treated in the dentist's office, where standard infection control measures are in effect and practiced routinely. Transmission of the AIDS virus through routine dental treatment has not been established. The Hepatitis B virus has been transmitted through dental treatment, but the appropriate use of standard preventive measures can eliminate this risk. Measures to eliminate the risk of any infection through dental treatment include the use of gloves, eye glasses, and masks; the sterilization of all instruments that contact blood or saliva; and the cleaning and decontaminating of all surfaces and containers that contact blood or saliva. The task force does not recommend screening dental patients and personnel for the AIDS virus prior to dental treatment. Patients with AIDS or asymptomatic carriers of the AIDS virus can be treated in the conventional dental office where standard sterilization and preventive precautions are practiced. Appendixes detail preventive procedures. 15-item bibliography and 13 information resources.