The risk of getting HIV through kissing is extremely low, even if both individuals have bleeding gums. HIV is primarily transmitted through specific body fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. Saliva has been shown to contain very low levels of HIV and does not typically transmit the virus.
If the HIV-positive individual is on antiretroviral therapy (ARVs) and has achieved an undetectable viral load, the risk of HIV transmission is further reduced. When a person with HIV adheres to their ARV treatment and achieves an undetectable viral load, it means that the amount of HIV in their blood is so low that it cannot be detected by standard tests. At this point, the risk of transmitting the virus to someone else, including through activities like kissing, is considered negligible.
However, it's essential to keep in mind that there are other infections that can be transmitted through open sores or bleeding gums, such as herpes or hepatitis. It's always a good practice to avoid direct contact with another person's blood, especially if there are open sores or bleeding gums involved.
In any case, if you are concerned about your risk of HIV or other infections, it is best to consult a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and guidance based on your specific situation. Additionally, practicing safe behaviors, such as using barrier methods (like condoms) during sexual activities and not sharing needles for drug use, can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission.