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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Oral health-related quality of life in the LGBTIQ+ population: a cross-sectional study

Abstract The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the associations between oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and socioeconomic and demographic variables, suicidal ideation, self-perception of oral health, and experiences of dental care in the Brazilian adult LGBTIQ+ population. A sample of 464 participants completed self-administered online questionnaires and provided information for OHRQoL assessment, using the OHIP-14 instrument at three hierarchical levels of explanatory variables: LGBTIQ+ identities; socioeconomic and demographic data and existential suffering; and self-perception of oral health and experience of dental care. The collected data were fitted to hierarchical multiple logistic regression models, in which the associations between each independent variable with the OHIP-14 prevalence outcome were analyzed. The OHIP-14-prevalence index showed that 33.2% of the participants answered 'frequently' or 'always', and the highest frequencies were obtained for the psychological discomfort (27.8%), psychological disability (18.3%), and physical pain (17.5%) domains. According to the adjusted final model, LGBTIQ+ individuals who were more likely to have their OHRQoL affected were those who were indifferent (OR=3.21; 95% CI: 1.26-8.20), dissatisfied (OR=10.45; 95% CI: 3.86-28.26), or very dissatisfied (OR=53.93; 95% CI: 12.12-239.93) with their oral health status, and also those who had or have difficulty accessing dental treatment (OR=2.06; 95% CI: 1.24-3.41) (p<0.05). It may be concluded that the OHRQoL of the investigated Brazilian LGBTIQ+ population showed associations with individual aspects and with access to dental services.

Correlation between general quality of life and oral health related quality in the mixed dentition

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the convergence between the domains of the Autoquestionnaire Qualité de Vie Enfant image (AUQUEI) and the Child Perceptions Questionnaire (CPQ8-10) in the mixed dentition. A sample of 676 children aged 8 to 10 years responded to the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) questionnaires using the AUQUEI and the CPQ8-10, respectively. Clinical (dental caries and malocclusion) and socioeconomic variables were assessed. The validity of convergence between scores (total and per domain) of the two instruments was assessed by Spearman correlation analysis, considering that non-zero coefficient values represented a correlation between scores. The median was calculated to compare the scores of each questionnaire relative to the variables, and the nonparametric Mann-Whitney test was applied to determine statistically significant differences between the categories. A weak significant correlation (between 0.30 and 0.50) was observed between the domains and the total scores of instruments (p < 0.05), except for the leisure domain (p > 0.05). Participants with a lower family income had worse HRQoL (p < 0.05), and those with caries and malocclusion experience had worse OHRQoL (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the AUQUEI and CPQ8-10 instruments showed a weak correlation. Income and clinical variables had a negative impact on the AUQUEI and CPQ8-10, respectively.

Validating evidence for the knowledge, management and involvement of dentists in a dental approach to sickle-cell disease

Abstract This study validated the content of an instrument designed to assess the knowledge, involvement (attitudes) and management (practice) of dentists relative to sickle-cell disease (KAPD-SCD). The instrument consisted of five domains composed of a total of thirteen items: I. Dentist's self-assessment relative to sickle-cell disease; II. Dentist's knowledge of the repercussions of sickle-cell disease on the stomatognathic system; III. Dentist's knowledge of the complications of sickle-cell disease in the stomatognathic system; IV. Dentist's knowledge concerning the dental management of sickle-cell disease patients; and V. Dentist's involvement in an approach to sickle-cell disease. Twelve experts assigned scores to each item of the instrument. The criteria were clarity, understanding and appropriateness, leaving open fields for comments. Descriptive and content analyses of the data were made. Each expert analyzed 39 assessment units. The percentages considered for agreement were high (>80%), medium (70%-80%), or low (<70%), and each item was maintained or revised according to the percentage observed. There was high consensus in 74% of the assessment units (the corresponding items were maintained), medium consensus in 24% of them (the corresponding items were revised), and disagreement in 2% of them, namely as regards the "appropriateness" of item 5 ("Are there oral complications in sickle-cell disease?"), which was revised. The final version of the instrument had 16 items for different applications such as in the clinical care program, teaching program, or research program, with different cut-off scores for each application. In conclusion, the level of agreement among experts showed evidence of the content validity of the instrument.

Acinetobacter baumannii as an oro-dental pathogen: a red alert!!

Abstract Objectives This review highlights the existence and association of Acinetobacter baumannii with the oro-dental diseases, transforming this systemic pathogen into an oral pathogen. The review also hypothesizes possible reasons for the categorization of this pathogen as code blue due to its stealthy entry into the oral cavity. Methodology Study data were retrieved from various search engines reporting specifically on the association of A. baumannii in dental diseases and tray set-ups. Articles were also examined regarding obtained outcomes on A. baumannii biofilm formation, iron acquisitions, magnitude of antimicrobial resistance, and its role in the oral cancers. Results A. baumannii is associated with the oro-dental diseases and various virulence factors attribute for the establishment and progression of oro-mucosal infections. Its presence in the oral cavity is frequent in oral microbiomes, conditions of impaired host immunity, age related illnesses, and hospitalized individuals. Many sources also contribute for its prevalence in the dental health care environment and the presence of drug resistant traits is also observed. Its association with oral cancers and oral squamous cell carcinoma is also evident. Conclusions The review calls for awareness on the emergence of A. baumannii in dental clinics and for the need for educational programs to monitor and control the sudden outbreaks of such virulent and resistant traits in the dental health care settings.

Clinical and epidemiological profile of emergency dental care in a basic health unit / Perfil clínico e epidemiológico dos atendimentos de urgências odontológicas em uma unidade básica de saúde

ABSTRACT Objectives: This study aimed to establish the causal profile of searches for urgent dental care in a Basic Health Unit, its outcomes and main complications that occurred. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective study with a quantitative approach was carried out. The sample consisted of patients assisted in the demand of dental urgency. Data were collected through the electronic medical records of all patients treated by residents of the Multiprofessional Residency in Family Health, at the São Francisco Health Unit, located in the city of Cariacica/ES, from March 2021 to March 2022. Results: A total of 212 emergency dental visits were evaluated, of patients of two genders, having females being predominant (57.5%), aged between 1 and 75 years, with toothache as the main complaint (86.8 %). The most frequent diagnoses were dental caries (31.1%), followed by irreversible pulpitis (20.8%) and unsatisfactory restorations (7.5%). Accordingly, the most common emergency treatments performed at the service were: endodontic access (34.0%), tooth extractions (28.8%) and restorations (19.8%). Conclusions: The profile of urgent care surveyed was predominantly female, with an average age of 34 years, with toothache as the main complaint and dental caries as the most common diagnosis. The main interventions performed were endodontic access and tooth extraction.

RESUMO Objetivos: Este estudo objetivou estabelecer o perfil clínico e epidemiológico dos atendimentos de urgência odontológica em uma Unidade Básica de Saúde, seus desfechos e principais intervenções realizadas. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo descritivo, transversal, retrospectivo, com abordagem quantitativa. A amostra foi composta por prontuários de pacientes atendidos na demanda da urgência odontológica. Os dados foram coletados através dos prontuários eletrônicos de todos os pacientes atendidos na Residência Multiprofissional em Saúde da Família, na Unidade de Saúde de São Francisco, localizada na cidade de Cariacica/ES, no período de março de 2021 a março de 2022. Resultados: Foram avaliados 212 prontuários, com pacientes de ambos os sexos, sendo o sexo feminino predominante (57,5%), com a idade variando entre 1 e 75 anos, tendo a odontalgia como a principal queixa (86,8%). Os diagnósticos mais frequentes foram a cárie dentária (31,1%), seguido de quadros de pulpite irreversível (20,8%) e restaurações insatisfatórias (7,5%). Em consonância, os tratamentos de urgências mais realizados no serviço foram: acesso endodôntico (34,0%), exodontias (28,8%) e restaurações (19,8%). Conclusões: O perfil demográfico do paciente atendido na urgência odontológica predominantemente do sexo feminino, com idade média de 34 anos, tendo a odontalgia como queixa principal e a cárie dentária como agravo dominante. As principais intervenções realizadas foram o acesso endodôntico e a exodontia.

Assessment of the nursing staff's knowledge on periodontal disease and its associations with systemic changes / Avaliação do conhecimento da equipe de enfermagem sobre doença periodontal e suas associações com alterações sistêmicas

Abstract Introduction The maintenance of oral health in inpatients is essential, particularly to avoid complications arising from periodontal disease, which not only affect oral health but can also exacerbate systemic issues during hospitalization. Objective: This study aimed to assess nursing staff's knowledge regarding the management of periodontal disease and its association with systemic diseases. Material and method This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in a general referral hospital of the Brazilian National Health System (SUS). A total of 504 nursing professionals completed a self-administered 24-item questionnaire on relating to oral care procedures and the importance of oral health in hospitalized patients. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis and the chi-squared test (α = 0.05). Result Most respondents (97.8%) believed that oral infections can affect a patient's general health and that oral hygiene is important during hospitalization. However, knowledge deficits were identified. The oral effect of periodontal disease was considered moderate by 49.3% of the participants, and 74.6% believed that sugar was the most common cause of periodontal disease. Conclusion Nursing professionals are aware of the importance of maintaining oral hygiene and the relationship between periodontal and systemic diseases. However, their dental hygiene practice knowledge is limited. A training program on oral healthcare for inpatients and the inclusion of oral hygiene topics in the curricula of nursing professionals are recommended.

Resumo Introdução A manutenção da saúde bucal em pacientes internados é essencial, especialmente para evitar complicações decorrentes da doença periodontal, que não apenas afetam a saúde bucal, mas também podem agravar problemas sistêmicos durante a hospitalização. Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o conhecimento da equipe de enfermagem em relação ao manejo da doença periodontal e sua associação com doenças sistêmicas. Material e método Este estudo observacional transversal foi conduzido em um hospital geral de referência do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) do Brasil. Um total de 504 profissionais de enfermagem completaram um questionário autoaplicável com 24 questões, abordando procedimentos de cuidados bucais e a importância da saúde bucal em pacientes hospitalizados. Os dados foram analisados por meio de análise descritiva e teste qui-quadrado (α = 0,05). Resultado A maioria dos entrevistados (97,8%) acreditava que infecções bucais podem afetar a saúde geral do paciente e que a higiene bucal é importante durante a hospitalização. No entanto, foram identificados déficits de conhecimento. O efeito oral da doença periodontal foi considerado moderado por 49,3% dos participantes, e 74,6% acreditavam que o açúcar era a causa mais comum da doença periodontal. Conclusão Profissionais de enfermagem reconhecem a importância da manutenção da higiene bucal e a relação entre doença periodontal e doenças sistêmicas. No entanto, seu conhecimento prático em higiene bucal é limitado. Recomenda-se um programa de treinamento em cuidados bucais para pacientes internados e a inclusão de tópicos de higiene bucal nos currículos dos profissionais de enfermagem.

Perfis profissionais e práticas educativas de saúde bucal na Atenção Primária à Saúde / Professional profiles and educational practices of oral health in Primary Health Care

RESUMO Na saúde bucal, ações educativas ainda se fundamentam na transmissão de conhecimentos, com pouco diálogo com a população. Estudo transversal, descritivo e exploratório, com abordagem qualitativa. Objetivou-se analisar práticas educativas inseridas no modelo tradicional e dialógico de educação em saúde, identificando motivações e desafios dos dentistas na realização de ações efetivamente dialógicas, críticas e reflexivas. Realizaram-se entrevistas com 39 cirurgiões-dentistas de Fortaleza-CE, os dados submetidos à Análise de Conteúdo, identificando três perfis profissionais: dentista passivo, esforçado e empoderado. No passivo, a educação para adolescentes, a troca de benefícios e a valorização do atendimento clínico foram dificuldades citadas que remetem à culpabilização da população, sem fatores motivadores. A culpabilização também emergiu nos esforçados, com o desinteresse da população, sendo apresentado como motivadores a intersetorialidade, a melhoria da saúde da população e a motivação pessoal. Já os empoderados evidenciaram como desafios a vulnerabilidade e a falta de comprometimento profissional, sendo motivados por ações interprofissionais. A gestão e a pandemia da Covid-19 foram dificuldades comuns, sendo evidenciada a importância da educação permanente, que ainda possui pouco incentivo na difusão de abordagens educativas problematizadoras, além da necessidade de potencializar estratégias de motivação profissional no desenvolvimento dessas práticas.

ABSTRACT In oral health, educational actions are still based on the transmission of knowledge, without observing the real needs of the population. Cross-sectional, descriptive and exploratory study, with a qualitative approach, aiming to analyze educational practices of primary care dentists, identifying motivations and difficulties to carry them out. Data collection was carried out through interviews with 39 dentists in Fortaleza-CE, submitted to Content Analysis, identifying three professional profiles: passive, hardworking and empowered dentist. On the passive side, education for adolescents, exchange of benefits, and the valuation of clinical care were difficulties mentioned that lead to the blame of the population, without citing motivations. Blaming also emerged with the hardworking, along with the population's lack of interest, with intersectoriality, improved health of the population, and personal motivation being presented as motivators. The empowered ones, on the other hand, highlighted vulnerability and lack of professional commitment as challenges, being motivated by interprofessional actions. Management and the COVID-19 pandemic were difficulties common to the profiles, highlighting the importance of Continuing Education, which still has little incentive in the dissemination of problematizing educational approaches, in addition to the need to enhance professional motivation strategies in the development of these practices.

Fatores contextuais do desempenho do atendimento odontológico para gestantes na Atenção Básica entre municípios baianos / Contextual factors of the performance of dental care for pregnant women in Primary Care among municipalities in Bahia

RESUMO Este estudo objetivou analisar os fatores contextuais do desempenho do atendimento odontológico para gestantes na Atenção Básica entre municípios baianos. A série temporal utilizou dados secundários dos 417 municípios, entre 2018 e 2022. O desfecho foi a meta do indicador de proporção de gestantes com atendimento odontológico por município: insuficiente (<60,0%) ou suficiente (≥60,0%). As variáveis contextuais foram: fatores sociodemográficos (Porte Populacional, Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano Municipal, Produto Interno Bruto municipal per capita - PIB, Índice de Gini da renda domiciliar per capita, Índice de Vulnerabilidade Social e Núcleos Regionais de Saúde) e serviço de saúde (Cobertura de Estratégia Saúde da Família - ESF e de Saúde Bucal). Realizou-se regressão de Poisson uni e multivariada (p<0,05). No último quadrimestre de cada ano: 2,9% (2018), 2,4% (2019), 5,3% (2020), 37,2% (2021) e 71,2% (2022) dos municípios atingiram a meta. No terceiro quadrimestre de 2021, os municípios com menor PIB, e em 2021 e 2022, com maior cobertura de ESF, apresentaram maior chance de atingir a meta. Conclui-se que houve aumento da proporção de atendimento odontológico para gestante ao longo dos anos entre os municípios baianos e atingir a meta foi associado a fatores sociodemográficos e de serviço de saúde.

ABSTRACT This study aimed to analyze the contextual factors of the performance of dental care for pregnant women in Primary Care among municipalities in Bahia. The time series used secondary data from 417 municipalities between 2018-2022. The outcome was the target indicator for the proportion of pregnant women with dental care per municipality: insufficient (<60.0%) or sufficient (≥60.0%). The contextual variables were: sociodemographic factors (Population Size, Municipal Human Development Index, municipal Gross Domestic Product per capita - GDP, Gini Index of household income per capita, Social Vulnerability Index and Regional Health Centers) and health service (Coverage of Family Health Strategy - ESF and Oral Health). Poisson regression was performed (p<0.05). In the last four months of each year: 2.9% (2018), 2.4% (2019), 5.3% (2020), 37.2% (2021) and 71.2% (2022) of the municipalities reached the goal. In the third four months of 2021, municipalities with lower GDP, and in 2021 and 2022, with greater ESF coverage, had a greater chance of reaching the target. It is concluded that there was an increase in the proportion of dental care for pregnant women over the years among the municipalities in Bahia, and achieving the goal was associated with sociodemographic and health service factors.

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

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.

Ethos antirracista em saúde bucal coletiva como imperioso à vida / Antiracist ethos and the collective oral health as a pathway for life

Resumo Este artigo propõe uma reflexão sobre o imperativo do antirracismo na saúde bucal coletiva, a qual, como núcleo e práxis, pode contribuir de forma significativa para a (re)construção de um ethos que contemple a equidade e viabilize a cidadania e a democracia. Como paradigma, assumimos o conceito "Bucalidade" e as diretrizes da Política Nacional de Saúde Integral da População Negra, pela ênfase no direito à saúde como prerrogativa do direito à vida e no combate ao racismo e a todas as formas de discriminação, em quaisquer espaços, como indutor desse ethos. Como exercício crítico, abordamos o status quo da saúde bucal coletiva e apontamos para uma perspectiva pró-equidade racial como uma escolha intencional, política e pactuada socialmente em busca da justiça social. Por fim, trazemos proposições para a implementação desse ethos por assumir o enfrentamento do racismo sistêmico no campo da saúde bucal coletiva como inadiável para a preservação da vida-boca e aprimoramento da democracia.

Abstract This article proposes a reflection on the imperative of antiracism in collective oral health, which, as a science, field, core, and praxis, contributes significantly to the reconstruction of an ethos that considers equity and enables citizenship and democracy. As a paradigm, we assumed the concept of "Buccality" and the guidelines of the National Comprehensive Health Policy for the Black Population, emphasizing the defense of the right to health as a prerogative of the right to life and the combat against racism and all forms of discrimination systematically. As a critical exercise, we discussed the status quo of collective oral health. We pointed to adopting a racial pro-equity perspective as an intentional, political choice socially agreed upon with all of society for social justice. Finally, we propose recommendations for dismantling systemic racism in collective oral health.