Condição de saúde bucal de pacientes internados em um hospital público brasileiro / Oral health condition of patients admitted to a Brazilian public hospital / Condición de salud bucal de pacientes ingresados en un hospital público brasileño

Frequentemente, subestima-se a importância da manutenção da saúde bucal, negligenciando o fato de que infecções orais não se restringem à cavidade oral. O impacto das infecções orais, como cáries, doenças periodontais e outras patologias bucais não deve ser minimizado. Tais condições têm o potencial de desencadear complicações sistêmicas significativas, incluindo endocardite, pneumonia e até mesmo acidente vascular encefálico. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever a condição de saúde bucal de pacientes hospitalizados em um hospital público brasileiro. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, que utilizou a análise de prontuários médicos de pacientes admitidos em uma instituição hospitalar pública brasileira e atendidos pelo serviço de odontologia da instituição. As afecções orais mais diagnosticadas, em ordem de frequência, foram: cárie dentária (40%), gengivite (23,7%), queilite angular (22,5%), doença periodontal (18,7%), candidose oral (7,5%), úlceras traumáticas (6,2%), lesão potencialmente maligna (2,5%) e herpes labial (2,5%). O estado de saúde e higiene bucal dos pacientes foi considerado precário. Parte significativa dos pacientes apresentou afecções bucais com potencial risco de complicações à saúde durante a internação e necessidade de tratamento odontológico invasivo e/ou de urgência. A saúde bucal no ambiente hospitalar tem um papel muito importante para a efetivação da saúde integral dos pacientes internados.

Oral health maintenance is often underestimated, neglecting the fact that oral infections are not confined to the oral cavity. The impact of oral infections such as dental caries, periodontal diseases, and other oral pathologies should not be minimized. These conditions can trigger significant systemic complications, including endocarditis, pneumonia, and even stroke. Hence, this study describes the oral health condition of patients hospitalized in a Brazilian public hospital. A descriptive cross-sectional, exploratory and retrospective study was conducted by analyzing medical records of patients admitted to a Brazilian public hospital, and attended by the institution's dentistry service. The most diagnosed oral conditions, in order of frequency, were dental caries (40%), gingivitis (23.7%), angular cheilitis (22.5%), periodontal disease (18.7%), oral candidiasis (7.5%), traumatic ulcers (6.2%), potentially malignant lesion (2.5%), and labial herpes (2.5%). The patients' oral health and hygiene were considered precarious. A significant number of patients presented oral conditions with potential for health complications during hospitalization and a need for invasive and/or urgent dental treatment. Oral health in a hospital setting plays a crucial role in achieving comprehensive care for hospitalized patients.

Se subestima con frecuencia la importancia de mantener la salud bucal, pasando por alto el hecho de que las infecciones orales no se limitan a la cavidad oral. El impacto de las infecciones orales, como caries, enfermedades periodontales y otras patologías bucales, no debe minimizarse. Estas condiciones tienen el potencial de desencadenar complicaciones sistémicas significativas, como endocarditis, neumonía e incluso accidente cerebrovascular. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir la condición de salud bucal de pacientes hospitalizados en un hospital público brasileño. Se trata de un estudio transversal, mediante el análisis de historias clínicas de pacientes ingresados en una institución hospitalaria pública brasileña, atendidos por el servicio de odontología de la institución. Las afecciones orales más diagnosticadas, en orden de frecuencia, fueron: caries dental (40%), gingivitis (23,7%), queilitis angular (22,5%), enfermedad periodontal (18,7%), candidiasis oral (7,5%), úlceras traumáticas (6,2%), lesiones potencialmente malignas (2,5%) y herpes labial (2,5%). Se consideró que el estado de salud e higiene bucal de los pacientes era precario. Una parte significativa de los pacientes presentó afecciones bucales con potencial riesgo de complicaciones para la salud durante la hospitalización y la necesidad de tratamiento odontológico invasivo y/o de urgencia. La salud bucal en el entorno hospitalario desempeña un papel muy importante para la efectividad de la salud integral de los pacientes hospitalizados.

Protocolo de validación del instrumento Examen Dental Preventivo del Adulto Mayor

Los desafíos del envejecimiento de la población y la acumulación de daño oral nos obligan a desarrollar herramientas diagnosticas validas y confiables que nos permitan caracterizar a la población, evaluar sus necesidades terapéuticas, planificar intervenciones significativas y realizar seguimiento de su condición. Con este propósito realizamos una revisión sistemática de la literatura relevante para establecer una metódica secuencial para la validación de la herramienta diagnostica Examen Dental Preventivo del Adulto Mayor. Seleccionamos 48 artículos relevantes, cuya heterogeneidad impidió la realización de un metaanálisis. Sin embargo, los artículos seleccionados fueron sometidos a una síntesis cuantitativa analítica, que nos permitió identificar los dominios y estrategias relevantes para la validación y proponer un protocolo de cinco fases secuenciales que presentamos en extenso en el presente artículo.

The challenges of population aging and the accumulation of oral damage force us to develop valid and reliable diagnostic tools to characterize the population, evaluate their therapeutic needs, plan significant interventions, and monitor their condition post treatment. We carried out a systematic review of the relevant literature to establish a sequential method for the validation of the Preventive Dental Examination of the Elderly diagnostic tool. We selected 48 relevant articles, whose heterogeneity prevented us from performing a meta-analysis. However, the selected articles were subjected to an analytical quantitative synthesis, which allowed us to identify the relevant domains and strategies for validation and then propose a protocol of five sequential phases that we present in detail in this article.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices related to oral health in First-Year university students of the Paraíso campus of the University of Costa Rica / Conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas relacionadas con la salud bucal en estudiantes universitarios de primer año del Recinto de Paraíso de la Universidad de Costa Rica

Abstract People's knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to health are built throughout life, particularly during childhood and adolescence, and they reflect the practices of their family and social circle. The aim of this study was to identify the levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to oral health of first-year university students at the Paraíso Campus of the University of Costa Rica. This was done through a questionnaire of closed questions that would allow oral health educational strategies to be established in the future for this population group. For this purpose, a cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted, where 70 first-year students of the Paraíso Campus participated in the first semester of the year 2019. For data collection, a survey of 22 closed questions on knowledge, attitudes, and practices about oral health was applied, and a score on oral health knowledge was subsequently performed, based on the answers to the questions. According to the results, the level of knowledge shown about oral health is low, since the average knowledge score (7.02 points) was less than half of the maximum score (17 points). The greatest deficiency in knowledge was evidenced in topics, such as, dental biofilm, gingivitis, use of fluorides, and the role of saliva. In addition, several practices that affect the condition of the oral cavity were identified, such as harmful habits, inadequate nutrition, and poor oral hygiene habits. In this study, a general lack of knowledge was identified regarding basic concepts of oral health in young university students, who are not clear about the role of some protective or risk factors related to the main oral diseases.

Resumen Los conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas relacionados a la salud en las personas se construyen a través de la vida, particularmente durante la infancia y la adolescencia y reflejan las prácticas de su círculo familiar y social. El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar los niveles de conocimiento, las actitudes y las prácticas relacionadas a la salud bucodental en estudiantes universitarios de primer ingreso en el Recinto de Paraíso de la Universidad de Costa Rica, mediante un cuestionario de preguntas cerradas que permitirá a futuro establecer estrategias educativas en salud bucal para este grupo de población. Se trató de un estudio descriptivo transversal de tipo observacional en 70 estudiantes de primer ingreso del Recinto de Paraíso en el I semestre del año 2019. Para la recolección de datos se aplicó una encuesta de 22 preguntas cerradas sobre los conocimientos, las actitudes y las prácticas sobre la salud oral. A partir de las preguntas sobre conocimiento en salud bucal se creó un puntaje de conocimiento. Se pudo evidenciar que el nivel de conocimiento sobre la salud bucal es bajo, ya que el promedio del puntaje de conocimiento (7,02 puntos) es menos de la mitad del puntaje máximo (17 puntos). La mayor deficiencia en el conocimiento se evidenció en temas como el biofilm dental, gingivitis, uso de fluoruros y el rol de la saliva. Además, se identificaron varias prácticas que afectan la condición de la cavidad bucal, como los hábitos nocivos, una alimentación inadecuada y hábitos de higiene oral deficiente. En este estudio se identificó en general una falta de conocimiento respecto a conceptos básicos de salud bucal en personas jóvenes universitarias, quienes no tienen claro la función de algunos factores protectores o de riesgo relacionados con las principales enfermedades bucales.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices related to oral health in participants of the institutional program for the inclusion of people with cognitive disabilities in higher education at the University of Costa Rica / Conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas relacionadas con la salud oral en participantes del Programa Institucional de Inclusión de Personas con Discapacidad Cognitiva a la Educación Superior de la Universidad de Costa Rica

Abstract People with cognitive disabilities face multiple challenges concerning oral health and frequently show oral tissue decay because of the barriers society imposes upon them, and due to financial issues, professional and family lack of knowledge, limitations regarding access to services, lack of empowering-driven actions, among others. Positive knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding oral health, developed during the course of a lifetime, help in preserving good health. The aim of the current study is to describe oral health knowledge, attitudes and practices in people with cognitive disabilities participating in the Institutional Program for the Inclusion of People with Cognitive Disabilities in Higher Education at the University of Costa Rica (PROIN, in Spanish), during 2021. A descriptive study with mixed focus was performed; a representative sample comprised of 86 students enrolled in PROIN was used for the quantitative approach, while the qualitative approach used a criteria sample along with an opinion sample, limiting size due to information overload. The survey, along with its corresponding questionnaire and the semi-structured interview, were used as data gathering techniques. It was evidenced that certain issues need to be readdressed, such as bleeding gums, the importance of preserving dental pieces, as well, the practice of flossing, which many students expressed difficulties doing. Good attitudes were found, such as dentist visits; however, access barriers for this population must be overthrown. This article showed the importance of training professionals in disabilities as well as developing oral health promotion programs aimed at people with cognitive disabilities.

Resumen La población con discapacidad cognitiva enfrenta múltiples retos en cuanto a la salud oral, presentado comúnmente un deterioro de los tejidos orales; esto como consecuencia a las barreras impuestas por la sociedad, factores económicos, desconocimiento de los profesionales y familiares, limitaciones en el acceso a la atención, falta de acciones para fomentar su autonomía, entre otras. Los conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas favorables en salud oral ayudan a conservar una buena salud, los cuales se desarrollan a lo largo de la vida. El objetivo del presente estudio es describir los conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas de salud oral en las personas con discapacidad cognitiva que participaron en el Programa Institucional de Inclusión de Personas con Discapacidad Cognitiva a la Educación Superior de la Universidad de Costa Rica (PROIN) durante el año 2021. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo con un enfoque mixto, para el enfoque cuantitativo se utilizó una muestra representativa de 86 estudiantes matriculados en PROIN y para la parte cualitativa se utilizó una muestra por criterio con un muestreo opinático, estableciendo el tamaño por saturación de la información. Se utilizaron como técnicas de recolección de datos la encuesta con su respectivo cuestionario y la entrevista semiestructurada. Se evidenció que existen temas que se deben reforzar, como lo es el sangrado de encías, la importancia de conservar las piezas dentales, así como la práctica de uso de hilo dental, donde la mayoría de los estudiantes expresaron tener dificultades para su utilización. Además, se encontró buenas actitudes con respecto a la visita al odontólogo, sin embargo, se debe derribar barreras de acceso que se presentan para esta población. Este estudio demostró la necesidad de capacitar a los profesionales en el tema de discapacidad y desarrollar programas de promoción de la salud oral específicos para personas con discapacidad cognitiva.

Percepción parental de calidad de vida relacionada con salud oral en niños de 6 a 10 años

Introducción: La caries es una de las enfermedades crónicas que más afecta a la humanidad, los niños son un grupo de alto riesgo de presentarla. La Calidad de Vida Relacionada con Salud Oral (CVRSO) se refiere a la percepción de las condiciones bucales de uno mismo y la manera en que los factores afectados impactan el bienestar y desempeño en las actividades diarias, el desarrollo de indicadores de esta se ve limitado por el nivel cognitivo de los niños, lo que genera el P-CPQ para determinar la percepción parental. Objetivo: determinar la percepción parental de la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud bucal de los niños de 6 a 10 años. Materiales y Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo con componente analítico. Se llevó a cabo una encuesta a 98 padres, el P-CPQ modificado que consta de 23 preguntas que abarcan las subescalas de síntomas orales, limitaciones funcionales, bienestar emocional y bienestar social. Resultados: Relacionando los resultados del cuestionario con la presencia de caries en dientes permanentes se reportó el aumento de caries con la edad; el sexo femenino predominó entre los participantes con caries siendo el 63,8%. La puntuación media fue de 13,6 (DE=13,1). Se presentó una asociación estadísticamente significativa entre la percepción parental de CVRSO de los niños y la presencia de caries dental en dientes permanentes (p=0,004). Conclusiones: Se concluyó que la presencia de caries en dientes permanentes en niños de 6 a 10 años puede disminuir significativamente la CVRSO en las dimensiones de síntomas orales, limitaciones funcionales y bienestar social.

Introduction: Caries is one of the chronic diseases that most affects humanity; children are a high-risk group for developing it. Oral Health Related Quality of Life (OHRQL) refers to the perception of one's own oral conditions and the way in which the affected factors impact well-being and performance in daily activities. The development of indicators of this is limited by the cognitive level of the children, which led to the P-CPQ to determine parental perception. Objective: to determine the parental perception of the quality of life related to the oral health of children from 6 to 10 years old. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive and observational study with an analytical component. A survey of 98 parents was conducted, using the modified P-CPQ which consists of 23 questions covering the subscales of oral symptoms, functional limitations, emotional well-being, and social well-being. Results: Relating the results of the questionnaire with the presence of cavities in permanent teeth, an increase in cavities with age was reported; the female sex predominated among the participants with cavities, being 63.8%. The mean score was 13.6 (SD=13.1). There was a statistically significant association between parental perception of children's OHRQL and the presence of dental caries in permanent teeth (p=0.004). Conclusions: The presence of caries in permanent teeth in children aged 6 to 10 years can significantly reduce OHRQLin the dimensions of oral symptoms, functional limitations and social well-being.

Health-Related quality of life of oral health workers in primary health care in Salvador, Brazil / Qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde de trabalhadores de saúde bucal da atenção primária à saúde em Salvador, Brasil / Calidad de vida relacionada con la salud de trabajadores de salud bucal de la atención primaria de salud en Salvador, Brasil

This study aimed to identify and determine the level of factors associated with the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of oral health professionals working in Primary Health Care (PHC) in Brazil. A cross-sectional survey was carried out among 96 dentists and 65 dental assistants working in the Family Health Strategy (FHS) in six municipalities in the metropolitan area of Salvador (BA), Brazil. The HRQoL was evaluated using the 36-item Short Form Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36). Higher mean scores in the SF-36 physical component summary were associated with younger age, post-graduate education in public health, and frequent leisure time. The mental component summary was associated with frequent leisure time, > 40 weekly working hours, suitable dental offices, satisfaction with colleagues, and satisfaction with working in PHC. The HRQoL level of oral health professionals working in primary health care in PHC in Brazil was comparable to those found in the available literature and associated with several modifiable factors. Incidentally, a literature search found few studies using the SF-36 to assess the HRQoL of oral health workers, and those found were produced outside the main scientific centers.

O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar e determinar o nível de fatores associados à qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde (QVRS) de profissionais de saúde bucal que atuam na Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS) no Brasil. Foi realizado um estudo de corte transversal com 96 cirurgiões-dentistas e 65 auxiliares em saúde bucal que atuam na Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF) em seis municípios da região metropolitana de Salvador (BA), Brasil. A QVRS foi avaliada usando o 36-item Short Form Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36). Escores médios mais altos no resumo do componente físico do SF-36 foram associadas a idade mais jovem, pós-graduação em saúde pública e tempo de lazer frequente. O resumo do componente mental foi associado a tempo de lazer frequente, > 40 horas semanais de trabalho, consultórios odontológicos adequados, satisfação com os colegas e satisfação em trabalhar na APS. O nível de QVRS dos profissionais de saúde bucal que atuam na APS no Brasil foi comparável aos encontrados na literatura disponível e associado a vários fatores modificáveis. Incidentalmente, uma pesquisa bibliográfica encontrou poucos estudos que utilizam o SF-36 para avaliar a QVRS de trabalhadores da saúde bucal; e os encontrados foram produzidos fora dos principais centros científicos.

El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar y determinar el nivel de los factores asociados a la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (CVRS) de los profesionales de salud bucal que actúan en la Atención Primaria de Salud en Brasil. Se realizó un estudio transversal con 96 cirujano dentista y 65 auxiliares de salud bucal que actúan en la Estrategia Salud de la Familia en seis municipios de la región metropolitana de Salvador, Brasil. La CVRS se evaluó mediante el 36-item Short Form Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36). Las puntuaciones medias más altas en el resumen del componente físico del SF-36 se asociaron con una edad más joven, títulos de posgrado en salud pública y tiempo libre frecuente. El resumen del componente mental se asoció con tiempo libre frecuente, > 40 horas de trabajo por semana, consultorios dentales adecuados, satisfacción con los colegas y satisfacción con el trabajo en la Atención Primaria de Salud. El nivel de CVRS de los profesionales de la salud bucal que actúan en la Atención Primaria de Salud en Brasil fue comparable a los encontrados en la literatura disponible y se asoció a varios factores modificables. Una búsqueda bibliográfica encontró pocos estudios que utilizan el SF-36 para evaluar la CVRS de los trabajadores de la salud bucal; y los encontrados estaban fuera de los principales centros científicos.

Oral health knowledge, attitude and oral hygiene practices among adults in Rwanda

Introduction: oral diseases (OD), commonly dental caries and periodontitis are a major public health problem. Poor oral hygiene has been associated with OD, causing tooth loss, which leads to disability and compromised patients' oral health. In Rwanda, OD is among the leading causes of morbidity at the health center level. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and oral health practices among adult participants in Rwanda Methods: a descriptive cross-sectional study was done among participants attending public health facilities in Nyarugenge District, Rwanda. Participants were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using frequency distribution, percentage distribution, and bivariate and multivariate logistic regression at a 5% significant level. Results: among 426 participants who were interviewed, 39.44% (n=168) were 18-27 years old and the majority, 61.5% (n=262) were female. Poor oral health knowledge was found in 42% (n=179) of the participants, whilst 12.44% (n=53) showed poor oral health attitudes, and 67.37% (n=287) were found to have poor oral health practice. Participants with a high school level of education were more likely to have better oral health knowledge and the results were statistically significant aOR: 1.79, 95% CI 1.14; 2.82; p = 0.011 Conclusion: the findings of our study showed that almost half of the participants had poor oral health knowledge. Oral health attitude and oral hygiene practices were also lacking. There is a need to enhance oral health education in this community to improve their oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices.

Research progress on dental materials for preventing root caries / 口腔疾病防治

@#The high incidence and untreated rate of root caries, a common and frequently occurring oral disease with challenging treatment in elderly individuals, is the main cause of tooth loss among elderly people, as rapid development results in pulpitis and periapical periodontitis or residual crown and root, which has been regarded as one of the common chronic oral diseases seriously affecting the quality of life of elderly people. Thus, early intervention and prevention are important. Traditional dental materials for preventing root caries have been widely used in clinical practice; however, they have the disadvantages of tooth coloring, remineralization and low sterilization efficiency. A series of new dental materials for preventing root caries have gradually become a research hotspot recently, which have the advantages of promoting the mineralization of deep dental tissue, prolonging the action time and enhancing adhesion. Future caries prevention materials should be designed according to the characteristics of root surface caries and the application population and should be developed toward simplicity, high efficiency and low toxicity. This review describes current research regarding anti-caries prevention material application, serving as a theoretical underpinning for the research of root caries prevention materials, which is important for both promotion in the effective prevention of root caries and improvement in the status of oral health and the quality of life among old people.

Clinical efficacy of periodontal endoscopy-assisted subgingival scaling and root planning and its effect on psychology and quality of life in patients with periodontitis / 口腔疾病防治

Objective@#To investigate the clinical efficacy and effects of periodontal endoscope (PE)-assisted subgingival scaling and root planning (SRP) and traditional SRP on the psychological and quality of life of patients with periodontitis.@*Methods@#This study was reviewed and approved by the Ethics Committee, and informed consent was obtained from the patients. Patients with periodontitis who were treated in the Department of Periodontology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University from April 2018 to December 2022 with residual periodontal pockets (PD ≥ 5 mm) 6 weeks after traditional SRP treatment were enrolled, and the residual periodontal pockets were further treated with PE-assisted SRP (PE+SRP). After 6 weeks of traditional SRP treatment and 3 months of PE+SRP treatment, clinical indicators, including plaque index (PLI), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL) and bleeding on probing (BOP), were measured, and periodontal tissue self-awareness scale scores, oral health impact profile-14 (OHIP-14) score and dental fear scale (DFS) score were collected. Moreover, visual analog scale (VAS) scores were collected after traditional SRP and PE-assisted SRP treatments.@*Results@#Twenty-three patients with periodontitis, including 832 sites of 486 affected teeth, were included in the clinical study. Three months after PE+SRP treatment, all clinical periodontal indicators, PLI (t = 9.254, P<0.001), PD (t = 50.724, P<0.001), CAL (t = 22.407, P<0.001) and BOP (t = 9.217, P<0.001), were significantly improved. Compared with traditional SRP (VAS: 2.48 ± 1.70), the pain caused by PE+SRP (VAS: 2.57±1.80) was not significantly different (t = 0,192, P = 0.850). There was no significant difference in the scores of the periodontal tissue self-awareness scale between the two groups (t = 1.485, P = 0.152). The OHIP-14 (SRP: 12.13±7.63; PE+SRP: 10.26 ± 5.25, t = -1.589, P = 0.126) and DFS (SRP: 40.70 ± 12.63; SRP+PE: 41.57 ± 12.61, t = 0.404, P = 0.690) scores were not significantly different.@*Conclusion@#All clinical periodontal indicators were significantly improved after PE-assisted SRP treatment of residual periodontal pockets, and compared with traditional SRP, PE-assisted SRP had no negative impact on the quality of life or psychological status of patients with periodontitis. Therefore, PE+SRP can be promoted in clinical practice.

Self-perception of need to replace dentures and oral health-related quality of life: cross-sectional study nested in a Cohort in Southern Brazil

Aim: With the significant increase in life expectancy over the last decades, it is important to understand how oral health can impact the oral health-related quality of life of older adults. This study aimed to investigate the association between need to replace dentures and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among older adults belonging to a Cohort in southern Brazil. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted with data from the 2019 Pelotas Elderly Cohort. The OHRQoL was assessed using the GOHAI. Need to replace dentures was self-report using a question dichotomized into yes/no. In the statistical analysis, unadjusted and adjusted models estimate from linear regression models were calculated. The significance level adopted was 5%. Results: A total of 493 older adults were included. On the GOHAI questionnaire, the mean score was 32.74 (SD±0.16). Individuals considering need of prosthesis replacement were 47.89%. Report of need to replace dentures was associated to lowest mean on the GOHAI score (ß -1.14; 95%CI - 1.80; -0.478, and on the physical (ß -0.56; 95%CI - 0.94 -0.17) and psychosocial (ß -0.48; 95%CI - 0.74; -0.22) dimensions. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the importance of also considering subjective measures of oral health in the dental care of older adults, since reporting the need for denture replacement, regardless of the reason, was associated with a worse oral health-related quality of life, including physical and psychosocial aspects

Influence of genetic polymorphisms on oral health-related quality of life after root canal treatment

Abstract To evaluate the impact of genetic polymorphisms in interleukins (IL1A rs17561, rs1304037; IL10 rs1800871; IL1RN rs9005), nitric oxide (NOS2 rs2779249, rs2897518) and suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS1 rs243327, rs33977706) on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of patients under-going root canal treatment (RCT). Methods: The sample consisted of 108 participants, presenting single-rooted teeth with asymptomatic periapical periodontitis. The impact of the OHRQoL was recorded using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) before, seven, and 30 days after RCT. Saliva samples were collected as a source of genomic DNA. Genetic polymorphisms were genotyped by Real-Time PCR using the Taqman method. Univariate and Multivariate analyses were used (p<0.05). Results: A significant difference was observed for the polymorphism rs2297518 in the NOS2 gene in functional limitation in the codominant (p=0.037) and recessive (p=0.001) models; in the physical pain (p<0.001 in both models); in psychological discomfort (p<0.001 in both models); in physical disability (p<0.001 in both models) and in psychological disability (p<0.001 in both models). Polymorphisms in the SOCS1 gene, in the recessive model, rs33977706 (p=0.045) and rs243327 (p=0.019), influenced the OHRQoL in the psychological discomfort domain. Conclusions: Polymorphisms in NOS2 and SOCS1 genes influenced the OHRQoL of patients undergoing RCT.

Resumo Avaliar o impacto de polimorfismos genéticos em interleucinas (IL1A rs17561, rs1304037; IL10 rs1800871; IL1RN rs9005), óxido nítrico (NOS2 rs2779249, rs2897518) e supressor da sinalização de citocinas (SOCS1 rs243327, rs33977706) na qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde bucal (QVRSB) de pacientes submetidos a tratamento endodôntico (TE). Métodos: A amostra foi composta por 108 participantes, que apresentavam dentes unirradiculares com lesão periapical assintomática. O impacto da QVRSB foi registrado usando o Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) antes, sete e 30 dias após o TE. Amostras de saliva foram coletadas como fonte de DNA genômico. Os polimorfismos genéticos foram genotipados por PCR em tempo real usando o método Taqman. Análises univariadas e multivariadas foram utilizadas (p<0,05). Resultados: Observou-se diferença significativa para o polimorfismo rs2297518 no gene NOS2 na limitação funcional nos modelos codominante (p=0,037) e recessivo (p=0,001); na dor física (p<0,001 em ambos os modelos); no desconforto psicológico (p<0,001 em ambos os modelos); na deficiência física (p<0,001 em ambos os modelos) e na deficiência psicológica (p<0,001 em ambos os modelos). Polimorfismos no gene SOCS1, no modelo recessivo, rs33977706 (p=0,045) e rs243327 (p=0,019), influenciaram a QVRSB no domínio desconforto psicológico. Conclusões: Polimorfismos nos genes NOS2 e SOCS1 influenciaram a QVRSB de pacientes submetidos a TE.

Oral conditions of children with microcephaly associated with congenital Zika syndrome: a cross-sectional study

Abstract The aim of the present study was to compare the oral conditions of children with congenital Zika syndrome (CZS)-associated microcephaly, non-CZS-associated microcephaly, and normotypical children, as well as to characterize their sociodemographic aspects and medical history. A paired cross-sectional study was carried out on 14 children with CZS-associated microcephaly and 24 age-matched controls, in Belo Horizonte, in southeastern Brazil. Children's oral conditions were assessed: dental caries experience (dmft/DMFT indices); developmental defects of enamel (DDE) index; dental anomalies; mucosal changes; lip sealing, and malocclusion (overjet, overbite, and/or posterior crossbite alterations). The quality of oral hygiene was analyzed by the simplified oral hygiene index. The children's mothers also answered a questionnaire about sociodemographic and medical history data. The variables were analyzed descriptively. Female participants were more prevalent (60.5%), and the mean age of the participants was 4.9 years (±1.4) (range: 2-8 years) and 92.1% of their exhibited some oral condition. All participants with CZS-associated microcephaly showed absence of lip sealing and had malocclusion (100.0%). When compared to the other groups, children with CZS had a higher percentage of dental anomalies (35.7%), mucosal changes (71.4%), and unsatisfactory oral hygiene (64.3%). In a sample composed mainly of female participants aged less than 5 years, the prevalence of oral conditions and unsatisfactory oral hygiene was higher in the group with CZS-associated microcephaly, followed by the group with non-CZS-associated microcephaly. Normotypical children had the highest percentage of dental caries experience.

Can oral health have an impact on academic performance and school absenteeism?: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Aim: The study aimed to evaluate the association between oral health and academic performance and/or school absenteeism. Methods: Electronic searches were performed of the PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS and LILACS/BVS databases. We included observational studies that evaluated the association between dental caries, tooth loss, dental pain or oral health status with school absenteeism or academic performance. The studies had to contain a representative sample of the population: schoolchildren, children or adolescents. After the removal of duplicates, the electronic searches produced 3,789 articles. Of these, 25 studies were included in the systematic review and 13 in the meta-analysis. Results: Considering all the studies evaluated in the meta-analysis, seven articles satisfied 100% of the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal checklist, and six contained between 90% and 75% positive answers. The pooled effects showed that the chances of school absenteeism were 31% higher in subjects with dental caries (OR 1.31; 95%CI 1.12-1.54). Students with fair/poor dental health had a 50% higher chance of suffering poor academic performance (OR 1.50; 95%CI 1.22-1.84) and 34% higher chance of having problems at school (OR 1.34; 95%CI 1.06-1.70). Students with a history of toothache had a 3.7 higher chance of being absent from school (OR 6.65; 95%CI 1.60-8.32) and 71% higher chance of missing class due to toothache (OR 1.71; 95%CI 1.15-2.56). Subjects with a history of toothache had a 2.5 times higher chance of suffering poor academic performance (OR 2.58; 95% CI 2.04-3.27). Conclusion: Therefore, students with oral problems were more likely to take time off school and present inferior academic performance

Asociación entre la salud oral y el deterioro cognitivo leve en adultos mayores / Association between Oral Health and Mild Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults

Introducción: En la medida que se incrementa la población de adultos mayores, aumenta la prevalencia, aumenta la prevalencia del deterioro cognitivo. Recientemente, se ha introducido la mala salud oral entre los factores de riesgo potenciales. Objetivo: Determinar la asociación entre la salud oral y el deterioro cognitivo leve en adultos mayores de una comunidad de la provincia de Santiago de Cuba. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, analítico y retrospectivo, de tipo casos y controles en el período comprendido entre enero y julio del año 2023. La población de estudio estuvo constituida por 257 adultos mayores que vivían en esta comunidad, de los cuales se escogieron 40 casos con diagnóstico de deterioro cognitivo leve, según los criterios de Petersen. Se seleccionaron tres controles por cada caso, 120 adultos mayores con aproximadamente las mismas características que el caso. Se precisó la fuerza de asociación de cada factor de riesgo. Resultados: Se halló una asociación significativa entre padecer deterioro cognitivo leve y presentar un número de 1 a 9 dientes. El dolor oral se presentó con mayor frecuencia en el 72,5 por ciento de los casos. No recordar la última visita al estomatólogo fue causa de deterioro cognitivo leve en el 42,5 por ciento. Cepillarse irregularmente se asoció 4,1 veces más con el riesgo de desarrollar esta afección. Conclusiones : Existe una asociación entre la salud oral y el deterioro cognitivo leve en los adultos mayores. Tener menos dientes y referir dolor oral fueron factores de riesgo importantes para presentar deterioro cognitivo. La visita al estomatólogo y el cepillado de dientes irregular influyeron negativamente en la enfermedad. Sin embargo, el uso de prótesis dentales fue un factor protector para el deterioro cognitivo leve(AU)

Introduction: Along with the increase in the population of older adults, the prevalence of cognitive impairment is increasing. Recently, poor oral health has been introduced among potential risk factors. Objective: To determine the association between oral health and mild cognitive impairment in older adults in a community in the province of Santiago de Cuba. Methods: An observational, analytical and retrospective case-control study was carried out from January to July 2023. The study population consisted of 257 older adults living in this community, from which 40 cases were selected with a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment, according to Petersen's criteria. Three controls were selected for each case, 120 older adults with approximately the same characteristics as the case. The strength of association of each risk factor was determined. Results: A significant association was found between having mild cognitive impairment and having 1 to 9 teeth. Oral pain was more frequent in 72.5 percent of the cases. Not remembering the last visit to the dentist was a cause of mild cognitive impairment in 42.5 percent. Irregular brushing was 4.1 times more associated with the risk of developing this condition. Conclusions: There is an association between oral health and mild cognitive impairment in older adults. Having fewer teeth and reporting oral pain were important risk factors for cognitive impairment. Visiting the dentist and irregular tooth brushing had a negative influence on the disease. However, the use of dental prosthetics was a protective factor for mild cognitive impairment(AU)

Modalidades de administración de un cuestionario referido a hábitos de salud bucal: análisis de concordancia / Modalities for the administration of a questionnaire on oral health habits: a concordance analysis

Objetivo: Analizar las diferencias entre dos modali-dades de administración de un instrumento, autoad-ministrado o guiado por un investigador, aplicados a tutores legales de infantes de una institución educa-tiva. Materiales y Métodos: muestra de 130 tutores legales de niños/as (3 y 5 años) pertenecientes a un jardín de infantes municipal de Avellaneda. Se aplicó un instrumento de recolección de datos sobre hábi-tos de salud bucal constituido por 14 preguntas sim-ples, múltiples y cerradas. La entrega y devolución del instrumento fue a través de la institución. A los 2 meses se convocó a la misma población para comple-tar el mismo instrumento guiado por un investigador. Se evaluó: porcentajede concurrentes e instrumen-tos respondidos totalmente (modalidad autoadminis-trada), porcentaje de concurrentes que completaron el instrumento guiado y concordancia total y por res-puesta de las 2 modalidades. Se analizaron frecuen-cias y porcentajes. Para comparar la concordancia se utilizó Kappa global y Kappa de Cohen para cada pregunta. Resultados: 76,9% de tutores legales res-pondieron en la modalidad autoadministrada y 48,5% la guiada por el investigador. El 80,0% respondió la totalidad de las preguntas del instrumento autoad-ministrado. Al comparar las respuestas para ambas modalidades, no se observaron diferencias signifi-cativas en la totalidad de las mismas. Al analizar las respuestas solo 3 de las 14 preguntas tuvieron una concordancia menor (0,70). Conclusión: Para la po-blación estudiada, la forma autoadministrada tuvo mayor tasa de respuesta que la guiada por un inves-tigador, sin que se registren diferencias en las res-puestas de ambas formas de administración (AU)

Objective: Analyze the differences between two methods of administration of an instrument, self-administered or guided by a researcher, applied to legal guardians of infants in an educational institution. Materials and Methods: Population 130 legal guardians of children (3 and 5 years old) belonging to a municipal kindergarten in Avellaneda. A data collection instrument on oral health habits was applied, consisting of 14 simple, multiple, and closed questions. The delivery and return of the instrument was through the institution. After 2 months, the same population was called to complete the same instrument guided by a researcher. The following were evaluated: percentage of participants and instruments fully answered (self-administered mode), percentage of participants who completed the guided instrument. The total and response agreement of the 2 modalities was evaluated. Frequencies and percentages were analyzed. To compare agreement, global Kappa was used, and Cohen's Kappa was used for each question. Results: 76.9% of legal guardians responded to the self-administered modality and 48.5% to the one guided by the researcher. 80.0% answered all the questions of the self-administered instrument. When comparing the responses for both modalities, no significant differences were observed in all of them. When analyzing the answers, only 3 of the 14 questions had a lower agreement (0.70). Conclusion: For the population studied, the self-administered form had a higher response rate than the one guided by a researcher, with no differences recorded in the responses of both forms of administration (AU)

Associação entre discriminação racial e cárie dentária em adolescentes / Association between racial discrimination and tooth decay in adolescents / Asociación entre discriminación racial y caries en adolescentes

Objetivo: Identificar a associação entre a presença de discriminação racial e a situação de saúde bucal relacionada à cárie dentária. Método:Estudo transversal, com amostra de 209 adolescentes, avaliados em ambiente escolar através da aplicação de questionário e exame clínico bucal. As variáveis foram: discriminação racial percebida, sociodemográficas e cárie dentária (presença de pelo menos um dente cariado). Os dados foram analisados pelos testes de Qui-quadrado de Pearson ou exato de Fisher e pela Regressão Logística Múltipla. Resultados:A maioria dos adolescentes era negra (66%), do sexo feminino (56,2%), com idade entre 14 e 16 anos (56%), heterossexual (73,2%) e cristã (59,3%). Em relação à situação socioeconômica 41,1% recebiam bolsa família e 19,2% tinham renda familiar de até um salário mínimo. A maior parte dos respondentes apresentou cárie (97,5%) e cerca de um quarto perdeu algum dente permanente. O índice médio do CPO-D foi de 3,7. Houve associação entre a raça/cor conforme o IBGE (p=0,033) e pela escalade cores da pele (p=0,012) e a ocorrência de cárie dentária. Adolescentes negros apresentaram duas vezes mais chances de terem cárie dentária (OR=2,11;IC=1,08-4,15). Conclusão:Os achados deste estudo permitem concluir que observou-se associação entre discriminação racial e cárie dentária.

Objective: To identify the association between the presence of racial discrimination and the oral health situation related to tooth decay. Method:Cross-sectional study, with a sample of 209 adolescents, evaluated in a school environment through the application of a questionnaire and clinical oral examination. The variables were perceived racial discrimination, sociodemographics, tooth decay (presence of at least one decayed tooth). Data were analyzed using Pearson's Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests and Multiple Logistic Regression. Results:The majority of adolescents were black (66%), female (56.2%), aged between 14 and 16 years old (56%), heterosexual (73.2%) and Christian (59.3%) . Regarding socioeconomic situation, 41.1% received a family allowance and 19.2% had a family income of up to one minimum wage. Most respondents had cavities (97.5%) and around a quarter lost some permanent teeth. Therewas an association between race/color according to IBGE (p=0.033) and skin color scale (p=0.012) and the occurrence of tooth decay. Black adolescents were twice as likely to have tooth decay (OR=2.11; CI=1.08-4.15). Conclusion:The findings of this study allow us to conclude that an association was observed between racial discrimination and tooth decay.

Objetivo:Identificar a associação entre a presença de discriminação racial e a situação de saúde bucal relacionada à cárie dentária. Método:Estudio transversal, con una muestra de 209 adolescentes, evaluados en el ambiente escolar mediante la aplicación de un cuestionario y examen clínico oral. Las variables fueron discriminación racial percibida, sociodemográfica, caries (presencia de al menos un diente cariado). Los datos se analizaron mediante las pruebas de Chi-cuadrado de Pearson o exacta de Fisher y Regresión Logística Múltiple. Resultados:La mayoría de los adolescentes eran negros (66%), mujeres (56,2%), con edades entre 14 y 16 años (56%), heterosexuales (73,2%) y cristianos (59,3%). En cuanto a la situación socioeconómica, el 41,1% recibía una asignación familiar y el 19,2% tenía un ingreso familiar de hasta un salario mínimo. La mayoría de los encuestados tenía caries (97,5%) y alrededor de una cuarta parte perdió algunos dientes permanentes. El índice CPOD promedio fue de 3,7. Hubo asociación entre raza/color según IBGE (p=0,033) y escala de color de piel (p=0,012) y la aparición de caries. Los adolescentes negros tenían el doble de probabilidades de tener caries (OR=2,11; IC=1,08-4,15). Conclusión:Los hallazgos de este estudio nos permiten concluir que se observó una asociación entre la discriminación racial y la caries

Self-perceived oral health: a study with patients wearing removable dentures

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between self-perceived oral health and the prosthetic status of individuals who seek care in prosthodontics clinics. Methods: Self-perceived oral health was analyzed through the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI). Abutment tooth mobility was assessed, and denture status was determined by clinical assessment of stability, retention, occlusal balance, vertical dimension, and integrity of dentures. The frequency of individuals in each variable was determined for the low and very low GOHAI conditions. Chi-square, Pearson, and stepwise logistic regression tests were used for the statistical analyses (α = 0.05). Results: Ninety wearers of removable dentures with a mean age of 55.1±9.1 years were evaluated. None of the variables was related to GOHAI values (p > 0.05). The regression analysis showed that age predicts (p = 0.006) the variation of GOHAI conditions (OR = 0.924, CI = 0.873- 0.978), showing only 7.6% protective effect against very low GOHAI. Unsatisfactory stability showed the opposite effect (p = 0.034) and the individuals with this characteristic are more likely (OR = 3.055) to have very low GOHAI scores (CI = 1.085- 8.602). Conclusions: The self-perceived oral health of wearers of removable dentures worsens with age and unsatisfactory stability of dentures

Orthodontics in the oral health care network of the Unified Health System (SUS)

Abstract This observational study aimed to describe and analyze data from two external evaluations of the National Program for Improving Access to and Quality of Dental Specialty Centers (PMAQ CEO), held in 2014 and 2018 in Brazil, which evaluated Dental Specialty Centers (CEO) using a national and census approach. We selected questions through a search in the microdata of the first and second evaluations. The groups were analyzed independently. To compare the groups, nonparametric tests were performed (Mann Whitney U). The formulated hypotheses were: there would be no differences between the data of these groups (h0) and there would be differences between the data of these groups (h1). For qualitative nominal variables, frequency distribution was verified and association tests were performed (chi-square test). The significance level for this study was set at 5%. We observed that orthodontic treatments were found in about 13% of the CEO. Regarding human resources, most professionals were specialists or had MSc or PhD degrees; were civil servants; had been hired by direct administration; or had been hired via public tender. Regarding the work process and inclusion of the CEO in the health care network, we observed a greater number of services that use single and electronic medical records, greater presence of services monitoring and analyzing goals, greater knowledge about monthly average of absenteeism (for 2018); and larger number of services with referrals from primary health care centers (for 2014). Expanding the view on orthodontics and including preventive, interceptive, and corrective treatments at different points in health care networks are essential strategies for achieving comprehensive care in universal health systems.

Associations between psychological stress, discrimination, and oral health-related quality of life: the buffering effects of social support networks / Associações entre estresse psicológico, discriminação e qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde bucal: os efeitos amortecedores das redes de apoio social / Asociaciones entre estrés psicológico, discriminación y calidad de vida relacionada con la salud bucal: los efectos atenuantes de las redes de apoyo social

Stress and discrimination negatively affect quality of life, but social support may buffer their effects. This study aims: (1) to examine the associations between psychological stress, discrimination, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL); and (2) to assess whether social support, stress and discrimination interact to modify their associations with OHRQoL. We used cross-sectional household-based data from a study including 396 individuals aged 14 years and over from families registered for government social benefits in a city in Southern Brazil. OHRQoL was measured with the Oral Impacts on Daily Performance (OIDP) scale; psychological stress was assessed with the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS); social support was assessed based on the number of close relatives or friends of the participant, and discrimination was assessed with a short version of the Everyday Discrimination Scale. Interactions were estimated using the relative excess of risk due to interaction (RERI). Adjusted effects were calculated with logistic regression. The prevalence of oral impacts among people with higher and lower PSS scores was 81.6% and 65.5%, respectively (p < 0.01). Social support was found to have no interactions with stress levels and discrimination. The association between social discrimination and OHRQoL (OIDP score > 0) was OR = 2.03 (95%CI: 1.23; 3.34) among people with a low level of stress, but was OR = 12.6 (95%CI: 1.31; 120.9) among those with higher levels (p = 0.09, for interaction). Individuals who reported experiencing higher levels of psychological stress and discrimination had worse OHRQoL; a synergistic effect with social support was not clear.

O estresse e a discriminação afetam negativamente a qualidade de vida, mas o apoio social pode amortecer seus efeitos. Os objetivos deste estudo são: (1) examinar as associações entre estresse psicológico, discriminação e qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde bucal (QVRSB); e (2) avaliar se apoio social, estresse e discriminação interagem para modificar suas associações com QVRSB. Os dados são de uma pesquisa transversal de base domiciliar de um estudo que incluiu 396 indivíduos com 14 anos ou mais de famílias registradas para benefícios federais em uma cidade no sul do Brasil. A QVRSB foi mensurada pelo Impactos Orais no Desempenho Diário (OIDP), enquanto o estresse psicológico foi avaliado pela Escala de Estresse Percebido (PSS). Além disso, o apoio social foi avaliado pelo número de parentes ou amigos próximos e a discriminação por meio da Escala de Discriminação Diária (EDS). As interações foram estimadas por meio do excesso relativo de risco devido à interação (RERI). Os efeitos ajustados foram calculados por meio de regressão logística. A prevalência de impactos bucais entre as pessoas com maior e menor escores de PSS foi de 81,6% e 65,5%, respectivamente (p < 0,01). O apoio social mostra interações inclusivas com níveis de estresse e discriminação. A associação entre discriminação social e QVRSB (escore OIDP > 0) foi OR = 2,03 (IC95%: 1,23; 3,34) dentre pessoas com baixo nível de estresse, mas foi de OR = 12,6 (IC95%: 1,31; 120,9) dentre aqueles com níveis mais altos (p = 0,09, para interação). Indivíduos que relataram níveis mais elevados de estresse psicológico e discriminação apresentaram pior QVRSB; o efeito sinérgico com o apoio social não foi evidente.

El estrés y la discriminación afectan negativamente a la calidad de vida, pero el apoyo social puede mitigar sus efectos. Los objetivos de este estudio son: (1) examinar las asociaciones entre el estrés psicológico, la discriminación y la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud bucal (CVRSB); y (2) evaluar si el apoyo social, el estrés y la discriminación interactúan para modificar sus asociaciones con la CVRSB. Los datos provienen de una encuesta transversal de hogares cuyo estudio incluyó a 396 individuos de 14 años o más de familias registradas en beneficios del gobierno en una ciudad del Sur de Brasil. La CVRSB se midió mediante el Impactos Orales en el Rendimiento Diario (OIDP), mientras que el estrés psicológico se evaluó mediante la Escala de Estrés Percibido (PSS). El apoyo social se basó en el número de familiares o amigos cercanos, y la discriminación en la Escala de Discriminación Cotidiana (EDS). Las interacciones se estimaron mediante el excesivo de riesgo relativo debido a la interacción (RERI). Los efectos ajustados se calcularon mediante regresión logística. La prevalencia de impactos orales entre las personas con puntajes de PSS más altas y más bajas fue del 81,6% y del 65,5%, respectivamente (p < 0,01). El apoyo social presenta interacciones inclusivas con niveles de estrés y discriminación. La asociación entre discriminación social y OHRQoL (puntuación OIDP > 0) fue OR = 2,03 (IC95%: 1,23; 3,34) entre personas con un nivel bajo de estrés, pero fue OR = 12,6 (IC95%: 1,31; 120,9) entre aquellos con niveles más altos (p = 0,09, para interacción). Las personas que informaron tener niveles más elevados de estrés psicológico y discriminación tuvieron una peor CVRSB; el efecto sinérgico con el apoyo social no estaba claro.

Itinerários terapêuticos para cuidados em saúde bucal de adultos quilombolas de um distrito rural da Bahia, Brasil / Therapeutic itineraries of quilombola adults for oral health care in a rural district of Bahia, Brazil

Resumo O estudo analisou os itinerários terapêuticos relacionados à saúde bucal de adultos quilombolas de um distrito rural de Vitória da Conquista, Bahia. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, na qual foram realizadas dez entrevistas semiestruturadas com adultos quilombolas em maio de 2021, transcritas e analisadas por meio da análise de conteúdo. Os resultados evidenciaram ausência e/ou precariedade na higiene bucal em alguma fase da vida, especialmente infância e adolescência; utilização de práticas populares para cuidado a saúde bucal e experiências de cuidado profissional marcados pela exodontia. A utilização de serviços de saúde foi relatada, em sua maioria, apenas no período anterior à pandemia de COVID-19, os entrevistados divergiram quanto à percepção de facilidade do acesso aos serviços de saúde em sua comunidade. Os relatos sobre a satisfação da saúde bucal destacaram a necessidade de uso ou substituição de próteses dentárias. À guisa de conclusão, entende-se que é necessária a promoção de saúde bucal de forma articulada com ações que possibilitem a prevenção de agravos, a reabilitação odontológica e a valorização do conhecimento e da visão de mundo da população quilombola.

Abstract This study examined the oral health-related therapeutic itineraries of quilombola adults in a rural district of Vitória da Conquista, Bahia. This qualitative study involved ten semi-structured interviews of adult members of the quilombola community, in May 2021, which were then transcribed and analysed using content analysis. The results showed little or poor oral hygiene at some stage of life, especially in childhood and adolescence, the use of popular oral health care practices, and experiences of professional care featuring tooth extraction. Use of health services was mostly reported only in the period prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Responses as to perceived ease of access to health services in the community varied. One common complaint as to satisfaction with oral health was the need to use or replace dental prostheses. This study concluded that oral health must be promoted jointly with disease prevention, dental rehabilitation and recognition for the knowledge and worldview of the quilombola population.