Evolução das desigualdades na distribuição de dentistas no Brasil / The evolution of inequalities in the distribution of dentists in Brazil

Resumo O objetivo deste artigo é analisar a evolução da distribuição de dentistas e cursos de graduação em odontologia no Brasil entre 1960 e 2022, a partir de dados institucionais e de sua correlação com dados econômicos e demográficos. Foram calculadas as proporções entre número de dentistas e população para as unidades federativas em diferentes períodos, e para determinar a concentração de dentistas, da população e dos cursos de graduação em odontologia,foi utilizado o índice Herfindahl-Hirschman (HHI). Para testar a correlação entre variáveis foi empregado o teste de Pearson, com um nível de significância de 95%. Entre 1960 e 2022, a proporção de dentistas por 10 mil habitantes aumentou de 3,3 para 16,9. Ainda em 2022, as unidades federativas com maior renda média domiciliar per capita estavam fortemente correlacionadas à maior concentração de dentistas (R2 = 0,90; p < 0,00). Entretanto, de 1975 a 2022, a concentração de dentistas medida pelo HHI caiu de 45,1 para 33,4. A diminuição da concentração geográfica dos cursos de odontologia foi ainda mais pronunciada, tendo o HHI passado de 39,3 em 1991 para 25,6 em 2022.

Abstract The scope of this article is to analyze the evolution of the distribution of dentists and undergraduate courses in Dentistry in Brazil between 1960 and 2022, based on institutional data and its correlation with economic and demographic data. The proportions between number of dentists and population were calculated for the federative units in different periods, and the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) was used. to determine the concentration of dentists, population and undergraduate courses in Dentistry. The Pearson test was used, with a significance level of 95%, to test the correlation between variables. In the period from 1960 to 2022, the ratio of dentists per 10,000 inhabitants increased from 3.3 to 16.9. Moreover in 2022, the federative units with the highest average household income per capita were closely correlated with the highest concentration of dentists (R2= 0.90; p < 0.00). However, from 1975 to 2022, the concentration of dentists measured by the HHI dropped from 45.1 to 33.4. The decrease in the geographic concentration of Dentistry courses was even more pronounced, with the HHI rising from 39.3 in 1991, to 25.6 in 2022.

Knowledge of Brazilian Dentists about Dentoalveolar Trauma Care and their Experiences during the COVID-19 Pandemic

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess dentists' knowledge from Minas Gerais, Brazil, about dentoalveolar trauma (DT) and their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and Methods: An online questionnaire with 34 questions was applied to collect personal data, professional training, self-assessment of experience/knowledge about DT, experience in care provided during the social distancing, and knowledge/conduct. The specific responses were evaluated based on the guidelines of the International Association of Dental Traumatology (IADT). Descriptive analysis and Pearson's chi-square test were performed. The level of significance was set at p≤0.05. Results: Most professionals (97.7%) had received information on DT, and only 4.6% of the participants considered their knowledge poor or very poor. However, 92.7% felt the need for more information on the subject. Regarding experiences during the pandemic, 55.7% provided trauma care during that period. Forty percent of the consultations were performed in person, and 33.3% of the professionals noted an increase in cases during the pandemic; 56.6% reported that the frequency did not change. The overall mean number of correct answers about DT was 5.29±2.11, indicating an acceptable level of knowledge. The mean percentage of hits for the specific questions was 44.1%. Conclusion: Although the level of knowledge of the dentists evaluated was acceptable, some aspects were deficient, with the need for more information about the IADT guidelines.

Undergraduate dental students and dentists' acceptability and knowledge about selective caries tissue removal / Aceitabilidade e conhecimento sobre remoção seletiva de tecido cariado de graduandos em odontologia e cirurgiões-dentistas

Objetivo: Avaliar a aceitabilidade e o conhecimento de estudantes de graduação em Odontologia e cirurgiões-dentistas sobre a remoção seletiva de tecido cariado (RSTC). Materiais e Métodos: Participaram do estudo graduandos do terceiro e quarto ano de Odontologia (Grupo 1) e egressos de um Centro Hospitalar de Odontologia (Grupo 2). Os participantes responderam de forma anônima e confidencial um questionário validado contendo onze questões sobre diagnóstico e manejo de lesões cariosas profundas. Teste qui-quadrado de Pearson e regressão logística multivariada foram aplicados (p<0.05). Resultados: A amostra total foi composta por 146 participantes. Destes, 81.5% eram do sexo feminino; 52.05% eram graduados e a faixa etária mais prevalente foi de 18 a 29 anos (85.62%). Sessenta e nove participantes escolheram o tratamento expectante (p=0.027). A análise de regressão logística mostrou diferenças estatisticamente significativas. Os participantes que consideraram a parede pulpar úmida têm aproximadamente oito vezes mais chances de escolha pelo tratamento invasivo (p=0.028). Aqueles que escolheram o tratamento endodôntico como opção de sobrevida em dois anos têm três vezes mais chances de optar pelo tratamento invasivo (p=0.032). Aqueles que afirmaram que a dentina cariada próxima à polpa não deveria ser removida tiveram quase três vezes mais chances de optar por tratamentos minimamente invasivos (p=0.031). Discussão: Estudos com questionários podem ser ferramentas úteis para detectar se estudantes e cirurgiões-dentistas estão seguindo as evidências mais atuais para o tratamento de lesões cariosas profundas. Conclusão: Os participantes tinham certo nível de conhecimento sobre RSTC, mas a aceitabilidade da técnica carecia de consenso.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the acceptability and knowledge of undergraduate dental students and dentists on selective caries tissue removal (SCTR). Materials and Methods: Third- and fourth-year Dentistry undergraduates (Group 1) and graduates working in a Hospital Dentistry Center (Group 2) were included in the study. Participants anonymously and confidentially answered a validated questionnaire containing eleven questions on the diagnosis and management of deep caries lesions. Pearson's Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression compared the answers (p<0.05). Results: Total sample comprised 146 participants. Of these, 81.5% were female; 52.05% were graduates and the most prevalent age group was 18-29 years old (85.62%). Sixty-nine participants chose stepwise caries removal (p=0.027). The logistic regression analysis showed statistically significant differences. The participants who considered pulp wall moist have approximately eight times more likelihood to choose an invasive treatment (p=0.028). Those who chose endodontic treatment as an option for two-year survival have three times more likelihood to choose an invasive treatment (p=0.032). Those who affirmed that the carious dentin close to the pulp should not be removed had almost three times more likelihood to choose minimally invasive treatments (p=0.031). Discussion: Studies with questionnaires can be useful tools to detect whether the students and dentists are following the most current evidences to treat deep carious lesions. Conclusion: The participants had certain level of knowledge on SCTR, but the technique acceptability lacked consensus.

Panorama da cobertura de cirurgiões-dentistas em equipes de saúde na Macrorregião Norte de Minas Gerais: análise de aspectos determinantes / Overview of dentists' coverage in health teams in the Northern Macroregion of Minas Gerais: analysis of determinant aspects

Objetivo: Realizar levantamento sobre a incidência de equipes de saúde da família, equipes de saúde bucal e cirurgiões-dentistas na Macrorregião Norte de Minas Gerais de 2008 a 2023. Métodos: Estudo original, de natureza quantitativa e descritiva, elaborado entre março e abril de 2023. Os dados utilizados no presente trabalho referem-se às equipes de saúde e profissionais colaboradores e foram obtidos na plataforma DATASUS. O único critério de inclusão considerado foi município ser pertencente à Macrorregião de Saúde Norte de Minas Gerais, conforme o Plano Diretor do estado. Resultados: Dos 86 municípios da macrorregião Norte de Minas Gerais avaliados, 63 (73,2%) apresentaram aumento no número de equipe de saúde bucal e de cirurgiões-dentistas em 2023, comparado com2008. Observou-se um aumento exponencial nos municípios Várzea da Palma (733,2%), Fruta de Leite (729,4%) e Francisco Dumont (550,3%). Conclusões: Houve aumento no número de equipes de saúde bucal e equipes de saúde da família em todos os municípios, demonstrando distribuição satisfatória dos cirurgiões-dentistas no setor público e a preocupação com a saúde bucal da população por parte das autoridades do poder público.

Objective:To conduct a survey on the incidence of Family Health Teams, Oral Health Teams and dentists in the Northern Macroregion of Minas Gerais from 2008 to 2021. Methods: Original study, quantitative and descriptive nature, prepared between the months of March and April 2023. The data used in the present study refer to the health teams and collaborating professionals and were obtained from the DATASUS platform. Theonly inclusion criterion considered was a municipality belonging to the Northern Health Macro-region of Minas Gerais, according to the state's Master Plan. Results:Of the 86 municipalities in the northern macro-region of Minas Gerais evaluated, 63 (73.2%) showed an increase in the number of Health Teams and dentists in 2023, compared to 2008. An exponential increase was observed in the municipalities of Várzea da Palma (733.2%), Fruta de Leite (729.4%) and Francisco Dumont (550.3%). Conclusions:There was an increase of in the number of Oral Health Teams and Family Health Teams in all municipalities, demonstrating a satisfactory distribution of dentists in the public sector and the concern with the oral health of the population by the authorities of the public power

Promoção de saúde ocupacional: capacidade para o trabalho de cirurgiões dentistas / Occupational health promotion: dental surgeons' work capacity

Este estudo teve o objetivo de analisar os fatores associados à capacidade para o trabalho de cirurgiões-dentistas atuantes na cidade de Cuiabá (MT). Pesquisa quantitativa e transversal realizada em agosto de 2020 com 64 cirurgiões-dentistas. A avaliação da capacidade de trabalho foi realizada por meio do Índice de Capacidade para o Trabalho (ICT), validado em português do Brasil. A análise de dados foi realizada pelos testes Kolmogorov-Smirnov e qui-quadrado ou o teste exato de Fisher (p < 0,05). A pontuação média geral do ICT foi de 36,89 pontos. Entre as características avaliadas, apenas o último nível de ensino concluído e o tempo de trabalho no local atual apresentaram associação significativa com a classificação do ICT (p < 0,001 e de p = 0,007). Os cirurgiões-dentistas que atuam em Cuiabá (MT) apresentaram satisfatório ICT, sendo que foi encontrada associação entre o melhor ICT e o maior nível de escolaridade e maior tempo de atuação no trabalho atual

This study aimed to analyze the factors associated with the work ability of dentists working in the city of Cuiabá (MT). Quantitative and cross-sectional research carried out in August 2020 with 64 dentists. The assessment of work ability was performed using the Work Ability Index (WAI), validated in Brazilian Portuguese. Data analysis was performed using Kolmogorov-Smirnov and chi-square tests or Fisher's exact test (p < 0.05). The overall average ICT score was 36.89 points. Among the evaluated characteristics, only the last level of education completed and the time working in the current location showed a significant association with the WAI classification (p < 0.001 and p= 0.007). Dental surgeons who work in Cuiabá (MT) had a satisfactory ICT, and an association was found between the best ICT and the highest level of education and longer time working in the current job.

Fatores associados ao estresse ocupacional entre cirurgiões-dentistas do setor privado no primeiro ano da pandemia de COVID-19 / Factors related to occupational stress among private sector dentists in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo transversal foi analisar os fatores associados ao estresse ocupacional entre cirurgiões-dentistas atuantes no setor privado no primeiro ano da pandemia de COVID-19 no Brasil. Incluiu 384 profissionais do estado do Paraná, cujos dados foram obtidos entre agosto e outubro de 2020 por meio de formulário online. Dois desfechos compuseram proxy de estresse ocupacional: (1) ansiedade e preocupação e (2) preparo e segurança para o trabalho durante a pandemia. As variáveis independentes foram agrupadas segundo modelo teórico explicativo em fatores individuais, organizacionais e extraorganizacionais. As associações foram testadas por regressão logística bi e multivariada. Apesar de preparados e seguros, os profissionais se sentiam ansiosos e preocupados para o atendimento clínico. Mulheres, mais jovens e que não receberam orientações sobre as medidas de segurança apresentaram maiores chances de relatar insegurança e despreparo. Profissionais mais jovens, que não participavam da tomada de decisões e que às vezes dispunham de auxiliar para o trabalho a quatro mãos, tiveram maiores chances de se sentirem ansiosos e preocupados. Além dos fatores individuais, fatores organizacionais do trabalho estão associados ao estresse ocupacional entre cirurgiões-dentistas no primeiro ano da pandemia.

Abstract This cross-sectional study examined factors associated with occupational stress among 384 dentists working in the private sector in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. Data were collected from August to October 2020 through an online form. Two outcomes - (1) anxiety and worry and (2) preparation and safety for work during the pandemic - constituted a proxy for occupational stress. The independent variables were grouped according to the explanatory theoretical model into individual, organisational and extra-organisational factors. Associations were tested by bivariate and multivariate logistic regression. Although prepared and confident, dentists felt anxious and worried about providing clinical care. Women, younger respondents and those who received no guidance on safety measures were more likely to report insecurity and unpreparedness. Younger professionals, those who did not participate in decision-making and who only sometimes had an assistant for four-hand work, were more likely to feel anxious and worried. In addition to individual factors, work organisation factors were associated with occupational stress among dentists in the first year of the pandemic.

Medidas de bioseguridad contra la COVID-19 durante la atención odontológica, en una región del Perú

Introducción: La atención odontológica, por su propia naturaleza, implica un mayor riesgo de trasmisión del SARS-CoV-2. Por tanto, es esencial que el personal del centro odontológico extreme las medidas de bioseguridad durante y después de la crisis sanitaria. Objetivo: evaluar el cumplimiento de las medidas de bioseguridad contra la COVID-19 durante la atención odontológica, en una región del Perú. Materiales y métodos: Estudio transversal realizado en la región de Ica, en Perú. Participaron 304 odontólogos de la práctica pública y privada. Se recogieron características sociolaborales y de salud. El cumplimiento de medidas de bioseguridad fue evaluado con la Escala de Bioseguridad para COVID-19, diseñada y validada por los investigadores. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo y se evaluaron diferencias con la prueba chi-cuadrado. Resultados: El 72,7 % de los participantes incumplen las medidas de bioseguridad. Se observaron mayores proporciones de incumplimiento entre los odontólogos de 41 a 50 años de edad (76 %), sin segunda especialidad (76,4 %), y en quienes recibieron la primera (100 %) y la segunda dosis (90,4 %) de la vacuna contra la COVID-19. Asimismo, entre los odontólogos que laboran en el sector privado que no tienen segunda especialidad (75,3 %); entre los que recibieron la primera dosis de la vacuna contra la COVID-19 (100 %) y la segunda dosis (92,2 %) respectivamente; en quienes tuvieron dos veces (100 %) y más de dos veces (100 %) COVID-19, y en aquellos que no tuvieron familiar fallecido por el coronavirus. Todas estas diferencias alcanzaron significancia estadística (p < 0,05). Conclusión: Durante la atención odontológica se incumplen las medidas de bioseguridad. Existen ciertos factores como la edad entre 41 y 50 años, no tener segunda especialidad, entre otros, que podrían incrementar la probabilidad de incumplir estas medidas.

Introduction: Dental care, by its proper nature, implies a higher risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. It is therefore essential that the dental center staff carry to extremes biosecurity measures during and after the health crisis. Objective: To evaluate compliance with biosecurity measures against COVID-19 during dental care in a region of Peru. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional study carried out in the region of Ica, in Peru. 304 dentists from public and private practice participated. Socio-occupational and health characteristics were collected. Compliance with biosecurity measures was evaluated with the Biosecurity Scale for COVID-19, designed and validated by the researchers. A descriptive analysis was performed and differences were evaluated with the chi-square test. Results: 72.7% of the participants fail to comply with the biosecurity measures. Higher proportions of non-compliance were found among the dentists from 41 to 50 years old (76%), without a second specialization (76.4%), and in those who received the first (100%) and the second (90.4%) doses of the vaccine against COVID-19. Likewise, among dentists who work in the private sector and do not have second specialty (75.3%); among those who received the first dose (100%) and the second dose (92.2%) of the vaccine against COVID-19 respectively; in those who had COVID-19 twice (100%) and more than twice (100%), and in those dentist who did not have relatives deceased by coronavirus. All these differences reached statistical significance (p < 0, 05). Conclusions: Biosafety measures are breached during dental care. There are several factors like age between 41 and 50 years, not having a second specialty among others that could increase the probability of failing to comply with these measures.

Construção do mapa de grávidas como ferramenta de controle no enfrentamento da covid-19 em belém-PA: relato de experiência / Construction of the pregnant women map as a control tool in the confrontation of covid-19 in the municipality of Belém-PA: an experience report / Construcción del mapa de embarazadas como herramienta de control en enfrentamiento-19 en el municipio de Belém-PA: informe de experiencia

Introdução:No início de 2020 a Organização Mundial da Saúde declarou o período pandêmico pelo novo coronavírus, SARS-COV-2, agente etiológico da Covid-19, o qual tem se propagado pelo mundo. Diante disso, faz-se necessário refletir sobre as complicações durante a gestação a fim de superar esses desafios que perpassam esse contexto. Objetivo:Possibilitar o controle das gestantes por meio da tecnologia educacional do tipo mapa de grávidas. Metodologia:Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, do tipo relato de experiência com abordagem qualitativa. Resultados:A ideia inicial identificava as grávidas de acordo como o sexo do bebê, sendo que a produção dessas grávidas se dava a partir da utilização da folha do Etil, Vinil e Acetato.Logo, a gravida da cor verde indicava que o profissional não tinha conhecimento do sexo do bebê, a rosa identificava o sexo feminino e a azul o sexo masculino, porém ao longo das oficinas, este método de identificação foi modificado.Conclusões:A experiência de vivenciar este projeto observando o empenho dos profissionais que compõe a equipe da unidade de saúde, como enfermeira, técnica de enfermagem, agentes comunitários de saúde e médico e dentistas em construir seu mapa e levar isso para sua unidade, foi bastante satisfatória, uma vez que, permite que os profissionaise discentes fortaleçam a autonomia do cuidar e consequentemente a prática laboral (AU).

Introduction:TheIn early 2020, the World Health Organization declared a pandemic period by the new coronavirus, SARS-COV-2, etiologic agent of Covid-19, which has been spreading around the world. Therefore, it is necessary to reflect on the complications during pregnancy and the importance of nurses' care in order to overcome these challenges that permeate this context. Objective:Permitir el control de las mujeres embarazadas a través de la tecnología educativa del tipo de mapa de las mujeres embarazadas. Methodology:This is a descriptive study, of the experience report type, with a qualitative approach. Results:The initial idea was to identify pregnant women according to the sex of the baby, and the production of these pregnant women was done through the use of theEthyl, Vinyl and Acetate. Thus, the green gravida indicated that the professional had no knowledge of the sex of the baby, pink identified the female sex and blue the male sex, but throughout the workshops, this method of identification was modified. Conclusions:The experience of living this project, observing the professionals' effort to build their map and take it to their unit, was very satisfying and enhanced the student's experience (AU).

A principios de 2020, la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) declaró un periodo de pandemia por el nuevo coronavirus, SARS-COV-2, agente etiológico del Covid-19, que se ha extendido por todo el mundo. Por lo tanto, es necesarioreflexionar sobre las complicaciones durante el embarazo y la importancia de los cuidados de las enfermeras para superar estos retos que impregnan este contexto. Objetivo: Permitir el control de las mujeres embarazadas a través de la tecnología educativa del tipo de mapa de las mujeres embarazadas. Metodología: Se trata de un estudio descriptivo, del tipo informe de experiencias con un enfoque cualitativo. Resultados: La idea inicial era identificar a las embarazadas según el sexo del bebé, y la elaboración de estas embarazadas se hacía mediante el uso de la hoja de Etilo, Vinilo y Acetato. Así, el verde gravida indicaba que el profesional no tenía conocimiento del sexo del bebé, el rosa identificaba el sexo femenino y el azul el masculino, pero a lo largo de los talleres, este método de identificación se fue modificando. Conclusiones: La experiencia de vivir este proyecto observando el compromiso de los profesionales en la construcción de su mapa y llevándolo a su unidad, fue muy satisfactoria y mejoró la experiencia del estudiante (AU).

Effects of Child Abuse and Neglect on Oral Hygiene and Nutrition in North Indian School Students: A Cohort Study

This study investigated the relationship between dental hygiene and child maltreatment, malnutrition, and overall development. The researchers examined 900 students aged 5-15 years from government schools in Lucknow district, Uttar Pradesh. The study observed nutritional status by assessment of the physiological status of the body based on its height and weight and signs of abuse/neglect. The results showed that 260 abused students had poor dental hygiene, and 236 of them were mild to moderately malnourished. In comparison, 362 non-abused students had dental neglect, and 232 were moderately malnourished. These findings highlight a significant association between dental care neglect, child maltreatment, and malnutrition. It is crucial to address the social stigma surrounding this issue, normalize discussions, and encourage dentists to identify signs of abuse and inform relevant authorities about potential discrepancies.

Abordaje y Percepción de las y los Odontólogos Frente a Casos de Violencia Física contra la Mujer en Contexto Intrafamiliar/Compañero Íntimo en Chile / Chilean Dentist's Perception and Action Towards cases of Physical Violence Against Women in a Domestic/Intimate Partner Context

La violencia de género física y/o sexual afecta a más del 30 % de las mujeres del mundo y Chile, impactando la salud de todos. Tanto la Organización Mundial de la Salud, como la literatura, sugieren abordar esta problemática desde la salud pública, con énfasis en sus trabajadores. Los odontólogos tendrían un especial rol, debido a la ubicación de éste tipo de lesiones y mayor exposición. Mas, no consideran pertinencia frente a la problemática y su abordaje es deficiente. Nuestro objetivo es conocer cómo los odontólogos de Chile perciben y abordan este tipo de casos, mediante un estudio descriptivo y transversal a odontólogos suscritos a las redes sociales del Colegio de Cirujanos Dentistas de Chile, previa aprobación de su directiva 2021 y del Comité de Ética de la Facultad de Odontología UdeC (C.E.C. Nº19/21). Bajo consentimiento informado, se aplicó una encuesta sociodemográfica sobre la percepción y abordaje de los odontólogos frente a casos de violencia física contra la mujer en contexto de Violencia Intrafamiliar/ Compañero íntimo. Participaron 175 dentistas. El 53 % ha encontrado estos casos durante el ejercicio profesional y más del 80 % percibe un rol activo frente a la problemática. Sin embargo, el 74 % presenta dificultad en la detección de lesiones y el 78 % en la derivación a redes de apoyo. El 91 % no recibió formación al respecto durante el pregrado, pero les interesa adquirir mayores conocimientos. Los dentistas de Chile se encuentran expuestos a este tipo de casos y perciben un rol activo. Sin embargo, presentan dificultad en su detección y abordaje y podrían beneficiarse de formación adicional al respecto.

Physical and/or sexual gender violence affects more than 30 % of women in the world and in Chile, impacting everyone's health. Both, WHO and the literature, suggest addressing this problem from public health, with an emphasis on its workers. Dentists would have a special role, due to the location of this type of injury and greater exposure. But, they do not consider relevance and their approach is deficient. Our objective is to know how dentists in Chile perceive and approach this type of case. Descriptive and cross-sectional study of dentists subscribed to College of Dental Surgeons of Chile´s social networks, prior approval of its 2021 directive and the Ethics Committee of the UdeC School of Dentistry (C.E.C. Nº19/21). Under informed consent, a sociodemographic survey was applied on the perception and approach of dentists in cases of physical violence against women in the context of Domestic Violence/ Intimate Partner. 175 dentists participated. 53 % have encountered these cases during professional practice and more than 80 % perceive an active role in dealing with the problem. However, 74 % have difficulty in detecting injuries and 78 % in referral to support networks. 91 % did not receive training in this regard during undergraduate studies, but are interested in acquiring more knowledge. Chilean dentists are exposed to this type of cases and perceive an active role. However, they are difficult to detect and treat and could benefit from additional training in this regard.

Knowledge and attitudes of Mexican dentists regarding COVID-19 / Conocimiento y actitudes de dentistas mexicanos sobre la COVID-19

Dentists have a high risk of contracting COVID-19, they needed to be aware of the major challenge that represents the dental practice and COVID-19. Accordingly, this study aimed: 1) to investigate the knowledge of dentists regarding COVID-19, 2) to investigate the attitudes of dentists concerning the use of personal protective equipment and, 3) to investigate the attitudes of dentists on stopping their dental practices in the framework of a contingency plan for the COVID-19 outbreak. An online cross-sectional survey was applied to dentists (n=822). Dentists in Mexico answered the survey, which was administered before the contingency plan for the COVID-19 outbreak. Results were analyzed with descriptive statistics and with a Chi-square test (P≤0.05). Of the respondents, 99% of dentists indicated knowing what COVID-19 is, knowing most, but not all, of its signs and symptoms and knowing its mode of transmission. The 89% of dentists indicated that they always used personal protective equipment. But they did not use always wear face masks, protective eyewear, face shields, disposable gowns, and caps. Dentists were aware of the risk of performing dental procedures during the COVID-19 outbreak. The 90% of dentists indicated that they would treat only patients requiring emergency treatment, and 10% indicated that they would not treat any patients. The dentists had limited knowledge about the COVID-19 disease. They did not use personal protective equipment consistently, and they indicated that they might continue working during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Durante la pandemia por COVID-19, los dentistas han tenido un alto riesgo de contraer COVID-19. Los dentistas mexicanos tuvieron la necesidad de enfrentarse a la COVID-19 en la práctica dental con un posible conocimiento limitado sobre la enfermedad. De acuerdo con esa problemática, los objetivos de este estudio fueron: 1) investigar el conocimiento de los dentistas sobre la COVID-19, 2) investigar las actitudes de los dentistas sobre el uso de equipo de protección personal, 3) investigar las actitudes de los dentistas para detener la práctica laboral frente a la pandemia. Una encuesta fue aplicada a dentistas mexicanos en el inicio de la contingencia por COVID-19 (n=822). Se analizaron los resultados de con una prueba de Chi cuadrada (P≤0.05). El 99% de los participantes conocieron qué es la COVID-19, pero no todos los signos y síntomas de la enfermedad ni los modos de transmisión. El 89% de los dentistas indicaron que siempre usan equipo de protección personal. Pero no usan siempre careta, lentes de protección, cubreboca, guantes deshechables y gorro. Los participantes tenían conocimiento del riesgo de contraer COVID-19. El 90% indicó que sólo atenderían urgencias dentales y el resto indicó que no atendería pacientes. Los dentistas tuvieron un conocimiento limitado sobre la COVID-19. No usaron equipo de protección personal de forma consistente. Además indicaron que estarían dispuestos a seguir trabajando durante la pandemia.

Prevalence and Determinants of (Work?Related) Musculoskeletal Disorders among Dentists ? A Cross Sectional Evaluative Study

Background: Work?related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are the second most common cause of disability, accounting for 17% of all Years lived with a disability (YLDs) worldwide. Healthcare professionals, especially dentists, are known to be at a higher risk of WMSDs. Therefore, this study aims to determine the point and period prevalence of WMSDs among dentists and to assess the risk factors for WMSDs, including workstation analysis. Methods: This cross?sectional study was conducted among 120 dentists from three dental colleges in Gujarat (Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar), India. A structured questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic and occupational history along with pre?validated standardized tools such as the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) score sheet and Quick Exposure Checklist (QEC). Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 20. Results: The period prevalence of MSDs and WMSDs were 85% and 75.8% respectively, and the point prevalence was 39.2% and 23.3% respectively. Prosthodontists reported the highest prevalence of WMSDs. The neck (64.7%) was the most commonly affected area. A statistically significant result was obtained between MSDs and BMI (P = 0.02), qualification (P = 0.01) and between WMSDs and duration of work in the sitting posture (P = 0.03). Conclusions: The prevalence of both MSDs and WMSDs was found to be high. Dentists with higher BMI, higher qualifications, lack of breaks, having poor workstations and higher REBA and QEC scores, whose job tasks involve continuous inspection, frequent bending of elbow joints, frequent repetitive motions, tasks that require them to reach distances greater than 20 inches and tasks that involve twisting of the waist are at a higher risk of developing MSDs

Satisfacción laboral de los académicos de la licenciatura de cirujano dentista de la Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México / ob satisfaction of the dental surgeon academics from the Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

Objetivo : Conocer la satisfacción laboral en los académicos de la licenciatura de Cirujano Dentista del Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México en el período 2019. Material y métodos : Estudio observacional, prolectivo, transversal, descriptivo. La población de estudio estuvo conformada por 123 académicos, a los que se les aplicó un cuestionario de 20 ítems con respuestas en escala Likert (α de Cronbach 0.845). Resultados : Del total de encuestados, el 45% (55) del sexo masculino, 55% (68) del femenino, con una media de edad de 36.5 (± 9.6) años. El 48% (59) de los académicos se encuentran satisfechos con el trabajo docente que realizan, en contraste, el 25% (31) está muy insatisfechos. Entre los factores que influyen en la insatisfacción se encontró: La carga horaria, sobre todo los que tienen en turno mixto, el poco apoyo que la institución da para estudiar un posgrado, el estrés que conlleva la responsabilidad de supervisar a los estudiantes en el área clínica en la atención a pacientes. La insatisfacción se presenta en mayor proporción en académicos con una edad ≥ 50 años. Conclusiones : Los factores referidos que influyen en la insatisfacción son: el bajo salario, las inadecuadas instalaciones para impartir clase, la falta de apoyo para la capacitación por parte de la institución, el no reconocimiento al trabajo realizado. Llama la atención que, en la licenciatura de Cirujano Dentista donde el trabajo en equipo es de suma importancia, este no se dé o se dé muy pocas veces.

Objective : To know the job satisfaction in the Dental Surgeon academics from the Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, during 2019. Methods : Observational, prolective, cross-sectional, descriptive study. The study population consisted of 123 academics, to whom a 20-item questionnaire was applied with responses on the Likert scale (Cronbach's α 0.845). Results : Of the total number of respondents, 45% (55) were male, 55% (68) were female, with a mean age of 36.5 (± 9.6) years. 48% (59) of the academics are satisfied with the teaching work they do, in contrast, 25% (31) are very dissatisfied. Among the factors that influence dissatisfaction, the following was found: The workload, especially those who have a mixed shift, the little support that the institution gives to study a postgraduate course, the stress that comes with the responsibility of supervising students in the area clinic in patient care. Dissatisfaction occurs in a higher proportion in academics aged ≥ 50 years. Conclusions : The referred factors that influence dissatisfaction are: low salary, inadequate facilities to teach classes, lack of support for training by the institution, non-recognition of the work done. It is striking that, in the Dental Surgeon degree where teamwork is of the utmost importance, this does not occur or occurs very rarely.

Meta analysis of the prevalence and influencing factors of WMSDs among dentists in China / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Objective: To explore the relevant factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among dentists through Meta analysis, providing a basis for the prevention and control of WMSDs among dentists. Methods: In April 2022, cross-sectional research literatures on the prevalence correlation of WMSDs among Chinese dentists were searched in databases such as China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, VIP, PubMed, Web of Science, and Em Base database. The search was conducted from the establishment of the database until April 2022, literatures were selected using keywords such as musculoskeletal disorders and dentists. To extract gender, age, length of service, disease classification and other related influencing factors as indicator, and prevalence was selected as the outcome indicator. After evaluating the quality of the literatures, RevMan 5.3 software was used to calculate the combined RD (95%CI) values of the included literatures. Results: A total of 15 articles were included, with a total sample size of 3646 people. Meta analysis results showed that the prevalence of WMSDs among dentists in China was 80%, and the top three parts of the incidence rates were 65% of the waist, 58% of the neck, and 50% of the back. Gender, age, length of service, region and disease classification all increased the risk of WMSDs, and the combined effect size were 75%, 78%, 71%, 77% and 82% respectively (P<0.05) . Conclusion: The occurrence of WMSDs among dentists in China is related to multiple factors such as gender, age, length of service and disease classification. The above risk factors should be taken into account in the workplace and preventive measures should be actively implemented to prolong the working life of dentists.

Perceptions on using the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) among Malaysian private dentists: a qualitative study / Percepções sobre o uso do Sistema Internacional de Detecção e Avaliação de Cárie (ICDAS) entre dentistas privados da Malásia: um estudo qualitativo

Objetivo: explorar as percepções de dentistas particulares da Malásia sobre o uso do Sistema Internacional de Detecção e Avaliação de Cárie (ICDAS) em sua prática odontológica. Material e Métodos: este estudo qualitativo envolveu entrevistas individuais com doze clínicos gerais que trabalham no setor privado, que foram expostos ao treinamento ICDAS durante seu estudo de graduação. Uma amostra intencional foi realizada com dentistas particulares na Malásia de vários estados com intuito de refletir a diversidade. As entrevistas foram gravadas e transcritas. A análise dos dados foi realizada pela análise temática. Resultados: cinco barreiras principais foram identificadas durante o processo de codificação, ou seja, fatores como o tempo, falta de treinamento, o não planejamento do tratamento, dificuldades de registro e baixa conscientização do paciente sobre prevenção. Foram identificados como fatores facilitadores um melhor treinamento e uma forte exigência das autoridades para usar este sistema. Conclusão: dentistas particulares na Malásia encontraram uma infinidade de desafios na adoção do índice ICDAS. Portanto, é necessário fornecer treinamento e assistência adequados para entender os benefícios da utilização do sistema ICDAS e da informatização da entrada de dados (AU)

Objective: to explore the perceptions of Malaysian private dentists on the use of the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) in their dental practice. Material and Methods: this qualitative study involved individual interviews with twelve general dental practitioners working in the private sector, who has been exposed to ICDAS training during their undergraduate study. Purposive sampling was carried out among private dentists in Malaysia from various states to reflect diversity. The interviews were recorded and transcribed. Data analysis was conducted by thematic analysis. Results: five main barriers were identified through the coding process, namely time factors, lack of training, having no effect on treatment planning, charting difficulties, and low patient awareness on prevention. Better training and a strong requirement by the authorities to use this system were identified as the enabling factors. Conclusion: private dentists in Malaysia encountered a myriad of challenges in adopting the ICDAS index. Hence, it is necessary to provide adequate training and assistance in understanding the benefits of utilizing the ICDAS system, and computerization of data input (AU)

Validation of an instrument for dentists' perception of pain in patients with communication difficulties

Pain is present in the dental clinic, whether due to oral problems such as dental caries and its complications or related to dental procedures. Pain evaluation in patients with communication difficulties (PCDs) is challenging for dentists, potentially compromising treatment. The aim of this study was to develop and validate an instrument to assess the perception of dentists about pain in PCDs. This study followed a quantitative methodological approach involving constructing and validating an instrument administered to 50 dentists. The initial instrument consisted of 29 items divided into four domains. Content and construct validity and internal consistency were confirmed. Content validation was performed by judges using the Content Validity Index. The instrument underwent construct validation and internal consistency assessments through exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis using Cronbach's α, Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin, and Bartlett's sphericity tests. The final instrument consisted of 21 items divided into three domains, with a high Cronbach's α for one domain and moderate values for the others. The total variance accounted for was above 46.03%. Each factor retained at least three items, with factor loadings greater than 0.3, commonalities greater than 0.2, and eigenvalues >1. Despite the study's limitations, the instrument demonstrated its applicability and potential in evaluating the perception and management of pain in PCDs.

COVID-19 and changes in dental practices in the Brazilian Public Health System: perception of the oral health team

Abstract The aim of this study was to verify the perception of the oral health team regarding work safety and aspects related to changes in dental practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. A descriptive, exploratory, quantitative, and qualitative cross-sectional study was conducted using an electronic questionnaire sent via email to health professionals (n = 197) affiliated with the Brazilian Public Health System (SUS), from December 2020 to September 2021, in a municipality located in the northeast of the state of São Paulo, Brazil. The variables of interest were sociodemographic characteristics and those related to the professionals' perception of oral health care during the pandemic and its impact on these workers' occupational safety. Descriptive statistics were performed, and the absolute and relative frequencies of quantitative variables were calculated, whereas lexical analysis was performed for textual content using the descending hierarchical classification (CHD). Out of the total sample, elective and urgent/emergency care was provided by 58.95% (n = 56); physical barriers were absent between the teams in 54.74% (n = 52); minimally invasive techniques were applied in 71.58% (n = 68); personal protective equipment (PPE) was replaced in 81.05% (n = 77) between appointments; and occupational safety was reported by 49.47% (n = 47). Textual analysis showed a decrease in appointments and consultations, with a longer interval between appointments. The professionals noticed changes in dental practices during the pandemic, mainly regarding the use of PPE, the type of treatment performed, the number of treated patients, and the greater time interval between consultations. The physical infrastructure of health units and the availability of PPE to patients needed some adjustments. A significant number of workers felt safe in providing dental care during the pandemic.

Endodontic file separation and its management among dentists in Punjab, Pakistan: a cross-sectional study

The study aimed to find the incidence and awareness of endodontic instrument separation and its management among dental house officers, postgraduate trainees, demonstrators, consultants, and general dentists. Methods: This online questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted with the approval of the IRB in private and public dental hospitals and dental clinics in Punjab. The authors developed the survey tool, which comprises 24 closed-ended items regarding demographics, the incidence of file separation, and awareness about its management. The data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 24. The Chi-Square Test was used to compare percentages of categorical variables. Results: Postgraduate trainees experienced the most instrument separations (43.6%), made the most retrieval attempts (49.2%), and experienced the most secondary errors during retrieval (52.1%) (p<0.001). Around four out of ten respondents always informed the patients (39.6%) and department (41.6%) about errors. Manual files (69.8%), stainless steel files (75.8%), and short files (60.4%) were more frequently separated, and the most frequent cause was older fatigue files (57.7%). Manual files were more frequently broken in public dental institutes (p=0.003). Two-thirds of the file separations (72.5%) occurred during cleaning and shaping in the apical third of molars (65.1%), especially in mesiolingual canal (56.4%). Bypass attempt was the most common in symptomatic teeth (47.7%). Conclusions: Preventive approaches such as limiting file reuse and constructing a glide path can reduce the occurrence of file separation. Operators should be familiar with the number of uses of the instrument before fatigue and should be trained through workshops and refresher courses

Knowledge of Dentists about Hypomineralization Enamel Defects: A Cross-Sectional Study

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate a group of Brazilian dentists on their knowledge of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) and Hypomineralized Second Primary Molars (HSPM) related to clinical aspects, consequences, and diagnostic criteria. Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional, the participants were invited by e-mail and Whatsapp® to answer a questionnaire about their knowledge of hypomineralization enamel defects (MIH/HSPM) on the Google Forms® platform. The questionnaire comprised eight questions about personal data and multiple-choice questions about their knowledge concerning clinical aspects, diagnostic criteria of MIH/HSPM and differential diagnosis through clinical images. Chi-square test was applied with the significance level set at 5%. Results: Most participants (n = 492; 91.1%) reported having knowledge about MIH/HSPM. The general dentists gave more incorrect answers (n = 40; 65.6 %;) about dental tissues affected by MIH/HSPM. Overall, 83.3% of the dentists gave the correct answer to which dentitions are associated with this condition. In addition, most dentists presented knowledge about the consequences related to possible fractures (n= 487; 90.2%) and about an increased risk of caries (n= 479; 88.9%) in the affected teeth. Regarding the differential diagnosis performed through clinical images, most participants gave incorrect answers (p≤0.001). Conclusion: The participants presented knowledge about the dentition associated with this condition and possible consequences related to the teeth affected by MIH/HSPM; however, they showed difficulties concerning clinical diagnostic criteria.

Impact of Internet Addiction on Academic Performance of Undergraduate Dental Students of Bhubaneswar, India

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the level of internet addiction and its impact on the academic performance of undergraduate dental students of Bhubaneswar. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was steered among 814 undergraduate dental students (representing first year through internship) in Bhubaneswar, India. Internet addiction was assessed with the Internet Addiction Test (IAT) developed by Young, which consisted of 20 items rated on a 5-point Likert scale. Google Forms were used to collect the data. Statistical tests like Chi-square, Kruskal-Wallis, and Spearman correlation coefficient were used to analyze the qualitative and quantitative variables, respectively, with the significance level set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: The prevalence of Internet Addiction was found to be 27.5%. Interns showed the highest mean Internet Addiction (57.91±10.71) score. The proportion of addicted students was higher in males, 74 (31.4%), than in females, 150 (26%). The mean scores for individual domains were overuse (16.31±3.64), non-restraints (7.77±2.66), inhibiting the flow of life (9.52±3.05), emotional state (11.25±2.86), and dependence (10.47±2.53). A correlation coefficient (Spearman's rho value of -.167) indicates a negative correlation between internet addiction and academic scores, which was statistically significant (p=0.001). Conclusion: This study revealed that internet use for varying purposes eventually leads to addiction and affects students' academic performance. The affected students need early intervention and control over internet usage.