The journal Arquivos em Odontologia (ISSN: 2178 - 1990) is a continuous scientific publication of the Board of the Postgraduate Program in Dentistry of the Faculty of Dentistry of the Federal University of Minas Gerais (FO-UFMG). The journal has a B3 Qualis Capes classification and is peer-reviewed (double-blind system). The journal's mission is to promote and disseminate intellectual production in the field of health and education in Dentistry and related areas, evaluating and publishing original articles of basic and applied research in the following categories: original research, systematic and integrative reviews, clinical cases and letters to the Editor. Published articles are made available free of charge through the SEER platform.
Regional disparities in the use of public oral health services in Brazil
Aim: To estimate and compare annual rates of dental care attendance in Primary Health Care (PHC) from 2018 to 2022 across Brazilian regions. Methods: A nationwide ecological study utilized secondary data from the Health Information System for Primary Care to calculate the indicator “rate of dentist attendance per registered population” for Brazilian regions and the country. Indicators were calculated annually from 2018 to 2023. Ratios between rates were calculated to estimate relative disparities of the indicator among Brazilian regions, assuming the region with the highest rates as reference. All analyses were performed using Microsoft Excel®. Results: Dentists performed annually between 36 to 112 attendances per 1000 registered users in PHC. Between 2018 and 2023, the highest rates of dentist attendance in PHC were in the Northeast region and the lowest in the South and Southeast regions. There was a similar pattern of stability (2018-2019), decline (2019-2020), and increase (2020-2023) in the rate for all regions of the country during the analyzed period. Conclusion: The study revealed disparities in rates of dentist attendance per registered population in PHC across Brazilian regions. There was a decrease in rates from 2019 to 2020 followed by an increase until 2023.
The Role of the Dental Surgeon in Palliative Treatment in Oncological Patients
Aim: To demonstrate the relevance of the dentist’s inclusion in the multidisciplinary team in the palliative care of cancer patients. Methods: This is a literature review from searches performed in the SciELO, Lilacs, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases. The exclusion criteria were complete articles in Portuguese and English, dated from 2018 to 2023. Incomplete articles, annals of events, dissertations, theses, and manuals or management guides were excluded. Results: 12 articles were included, confirming a higher frequency of oral implications in patients affected by cancer, and submitted to radiotherapy treatments. The care of the oral mucosa, in this sense, is indispensable, because it eliminates risks of infection, leading to a better comfort of the patient and a better quality of life. Conclusion: The dentist’s participation in palliative care procedures for cancer patients is essential to ensure better health and well-being for these individuals.
Extensive Oral Melanoma on the hard palate
Aim: Oral mucosa melanoma (OMM) is a rare malignant neoplasm with aggressive behavior. This report aims to present a case of a large OMM on the hard palate. Methods: A 54-year-old Caucasian man attended the Program of Specific Care for Stomatological Diseases of the Federal University of Uberlândia, referred by a general dentist for evaluation of a lesion on the palate. On oral examination, a focal black pigmentation with red areas was observed in the median region of the hard palate. The diagnostic hypothesis was OMM. Upon incisional biopsy, microscopic assessment of the tissue fragment revealed features compatible with OMM. After diagnostic confirmation, the patient was referred to the head and neck surgery service of the local cancer center, where sessions of radiotherapy and brachytherapy were performed. Results: Although the medical team found an apparent complete radiological response and no cervical lymphadenopathy after treatment, the disease recurred within one year and the patient presented with a poor prognosis. Conclusion: Systematic clinical examinations of the oral cavity for the detection of asymptomatic and isolated pigmentations are necessary since early diagnosis is essential to increase the chances of curing this aggressive malignancy.
Disparities in the provision of individual and collective preventive procedures in oral health in Primary Health Care in Brazil
Aim: This study estimated indicators of the provision of individual and collective preventive procedures in oral health within Primary Health Care, and to assess the magnitude of geographical disparities of these indicators in Brazil. Methods: An ecological study was conducted utilizing secondary data from the Primary Care Health Information System, 2022. The proportion of individual preventive dental procedures, the proportion of collective practices in oral health, and the ratio between individual procedures and collective practices in oral health (ind/col) were calculated for Brazil, by Federative Units (UF), and regions. The Disparity Index (DI) measured the geographical differences of these indicators. Results: Individual preventive procedures and collective practices accounted for 47.7% and 34.4% of PHC procedures, respectively. Higher DIs were observed for collective practices. The ind/col ratio was >30, with lower DIs in the South region. Conclusion: Disparities exist in the provision of preventive actions with a predominance of individual procedures.
The pathophysiology of Hereditary Hemochromatosis and its impact on the oral cavity
Background: Hereditary Hemochromatosis (HH) is an autosomal recessive disease of the HFE gene, characterized by increased intestinal iron absorption, leading to its slow deposition in several organs, more specifically soft tissues. Aim: The objective of this work was to gather and analyze the scientific evidence on HH. Methods: Using the PUBMED database and the CAPES journal portal, iron metabolism, epidemiology, diagnosis, therapy, and systemic and oral clinical manifestations of this disease were discussed. Results: These manifestations occur mainly from the age of 40, after the excess iron accumulates progressively in different organs, particularly in the liver, heart and pancreas. Oral manifestations occur through hyperpigmented lesions and changes in salivary flow, which can be detected by the Dentist. Conclusion: HH is a very common genetic condition and its late diagnosis can cause irreversible damage to organs and systems, including in the oral cavity, and it is important that the Dentist is aware of its clinical manifestations, in order to contribute to its diagnosis, which, is often only established after the onset of secondary complications of the disease.
Epidemiological Profile of Treatments for Temporomandibular Dysfunction and Facial Pain in Outpatient Care in Brazil
Introduction: Temporomandibular Dysfunction and Facial Pain (TMD/FD) are characterized by pain associated with the face, neck, and oral cavity structures, with neurological, muscular, psychosocial, and/or traumatic etiologies. Objective: To characterize the epidemiological profile of treatments performed by the Unified Health System (SUS) regarding Temporomandibular Dysfunction and Atypical Facial Pain. Methodology: Cross-sectional study carried out with data from the Outpatient Information System of the Unified Health System (SIA/SUS), accessed through the DATASUS FTP (File Transfer Protocol) server. Procedures performed in Brazil in 2023 were analyzed, with main diagnoses of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (ICD-10: K07.6) or Atypical Facial Pain (ICD-10: G50.1). Sociodemographic characteristics (age group, sex, race/color, region of residence) and care (procedure, diagnosis, complexity, nature) were analyzed. Descriptive statistics were calculated. Results: Regarding the sociodemographic characteristics of the patients, the age group in which TMD and Atypical Facial Pain treatment was most performed was 20-59 years, with a focus on females (71.9%) and brown race/color (76.4%). The Southeast region concentrated the majority of procedures (52.3%), being performed mainly due to Temporomandibular Dysfunction (76.0%) and in Medium Complexity establishments (74.0%). The most common procedures were “Consultation with higher education professionals in specialized care (except physician)” (19.8%), “Medical consultation in specialized care” (14.2%) and “Medical care in emergency care unit” (12.9%). Conclusions: Thus, regarding sociodemographic distribution, the Southeast region stood out for the number of procedures performed, patients in the adult age group (20 to 59 years old), of mixed race and female, being mostly treated in medium complexity establishments, with the respective procedures of consultation with higher education professionals in specialized care, medical consultation in specialized care and medical care in an emergency care unit.
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome
Ethics in scientific research and the use of artificial intelligence
Mauro Henrique Nogueira Guimarães de Abreu
Surveillance of dental trauma in Primary Health Care by Federative Units and Brazilian geographic regions between 2014-2023
Aim: To analyze the temporal trend of dentoalveolar trauma notification in PHC between Federative Units (UF) and Brazilian regions between 2014 and 2023. Methods: The time series used secondary data from oral health surveillance of dentoalveolar trauma, extracted from the Health Information System for Primary Care, referring to the annual data from 2014 to 2023. Population data were extracted from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). The occurrence, annual rate, and Annual Percentage Change (APC) (%) were calculated. Temporal analysis used generalized linear regression using the Prais-Winsten method (p<0.05) and serial autocorrelation using the Durbin-Watson test. Results: In ten years, 1,659,903 cases of dentoalveolar trauma were reported in Brazil, with the highest annual rate in 2023 (47.24 per 10,000 inhabitants/year) and the lowest in 2014 (0.08 per 10,000 inhabitants/year). The reporting rates of dentoalveolar trauma in PHC showed an increasing trend over the ten years (2014-2023) for Brazil (APC=28.8%; 95%CI: 7.4%; 54.9%) and for all Brazilian geographic regions, with the greatest variation in the Southeast (APC=36.1%; 95%CI: 9.9%; 68.7%) and North (APC=35.2%; 95%CI: 11.7%-64.1%) regions, and the smallest variation in the Northeast region (APC=18.6%; 95%CI: 3.8%; 35.5%) (p<0.05). Among the UFs, Alagoas showed the greatest increasing variation (APC=55.6%; 95%CI: 3.0%; 135.5%) and the smallest, Bahia (APC=11.5%; 95%CI: 2.7%-21.1%). However, some UFs showed a tendency towards stability (Acre, Roraima, Tocantins, Paraíba and Sergipe) (p>0.05). Conclusion: The surveillance rates of dentoalveolar trauma in the PHC showed an increasing trend in the years analyzed, but with disparities between the Federative Units and the different geographic regions of the country. Uniterms: tooth injuries; public health surveillance; Primary Health Care.
Impact of oral health on the quality of life of public school teachers in Minas Gerais
Introduction: Before the pandemic, teachers were already facing precarious working conditions and health risks, and the health crisis has intensified the need for support to improve physical and mental well-being, in addition to affecting oral hygiene habits and the use of dental services. Objective: To analyze the prevalence of the impact of self-perceived oral health on the quality of life of public school teachers in Minas Gerais, Brazil, during the COVID-19 pandemic and associated factors. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 1,907 teachers from state schools in Minas Gerais who completed an electronic data collection form. The response variable was the perception of the impact of oral health on quality of life, assessed by the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14). The explanatory variables were grouped into sociodemographic characteristics, access to dental services, self-assessed oral health, general health issues, and work aspects. Binary Logistic Regression was conducted. Results: Among the teachers, 16.8% showed self-perception of the impact of oral health on quality of life, with an association with age (p<0.003), marital status (p=0.020), need for dental treatment (p<0.001), toothache (p<0.001), self-assessment of oral health (p<0.001), depression (p=0.040), common mental disorder (p<0.001), back pain (p=0.001), and psychological demands of work (p=0.001).
A micro-computed tomography assessment of root canal surface with conventional and pediatric rotary files in primary prototyped teeth
Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical preparation quality (instrumented surface i.e. percentage of canal walls touched, increase in canal volume) and instrumentation time using a rotary file developed for deciduous teeth (Sequence Baby File - SBF) and compaired to conventional manual files (K file). Methods: For this in vitro study, 20 resin prototypes of mandibular deciduous molars were included in the sample, focusing on the mesial canals, totaling 40 canals. Initially, these prototypes underwent scanning via micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and then were randomly assigned to two groups: SBF (G1) and K file (G2), with 20 canals in each group. The total instrumentation time was meticulously recorded. Following the preparation phase, a subsequent scan was conducted and the images were reconstructed and aligned with the initial scans. Utilizing the CTan® program measurements were taken concerning canal volume and the percentage of canal walls touched (surface area). Student’s T-test and Mann-Whitney U test were used for statistical analysis (p < 0.05). Results: No statistically significant differences were found in volume and surface area at the analyzed data between the two groups under study. Time was statistically significant shorter in SBF (G1) (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The findings of this study underscore that rotary files developed for primary teeth (SBF – G1) yield comparable outcomes to K files (G2) in terms of biomechanical canal preparation, all achieved in a shorter instrumentation timeframe. These results offer an encouraging perspective for pediatric dentists considering the adoption of such system. Uniterms: pediatric dentistry; pulpectomy; endodontics; x-ray microtomography.
Aim: The aim of the present study was to explore and assess what is known about oral health promotion in primary schools, as well as provide scientific knowledge to guide future interventions for two-year-old children. Methods: The electronic database search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar as a grey literature. There was no limitation on publication year or language. Two reviewers independently and blinded selected the studies and extracted the data. Also, an experience report conducted in a school located at an inner city of southeast of Brazil was performed as part of curricular component of the undergraduate dentistry course. Results: From the 1,309 potentially eligible articles, 30 were selected for full-text analysis and 11 included in the integrative review. Several oral health interventions were described in the literature such as playful techniques with drawings, puppet theaters and gamifications approach, assisted and instructed toothbrushing, lectures, audiovisual aids, booklets. Conclusion: Evidence suggests that school is a suitable place to implement activities to improve the oral health knowledge. However, additional studies are required to determine the appropriate efficacy of interventions for each age group.
Emergency care in Pediatric Dentistry at a University center during the pandemic and post-pandemic periods
Aim: To analyze the demand, patient profile, and user satisfaction of those who sought emergency pediatric dental services at a university center during the pandemic and post-pandemic periods. Methods: This is a retrospective study based on medical records and a prospective study based on clinical evaluations and satisfaction questionnaires given to parents/guardians and patients attended between 2020 and 2023. Sociodemographic data and the main reasons for seeking the service were collected. In the clinical examination, the condition of the treated dental element was observed. For user satisfaction evaluation, interviews and questionnaires were used for parents/guardians/patients. The data were analyzed descriptively. Results: A total of 302 records were analyzed. Male patients (51.0%), white (64.0%) and the age group of 6 to 11 years (57.2%) were the most prevalent. The main reason for seeking emergency services was for regular treatment (55.2%). Of the re-evaluated patients, 44.4% showed the previously treated tooth, and 65.3% presented color alteration due to the presence of carious lesions, endodontic treatment/trauma, and fistula. Regarding satisfaction, the appearance and organization of the room generated high satisfaction among parents/guardians (99.1%), while the difficulty in continuing treatment was the main dissatisfaction reported (51.3%). Most children (86.3%) reported satisfaction with their visit to the dentist. Conclusion: It was possible to analyze the patient profile and refer them to regular appointments, but there is a need for strategies to improve continuous access. The search for treatment involved needs such as prevention, surgeries, orthodontics, and cavity treatment, emphasizing the need for preventive and educational actions. Satisfaction with the service highlighted the importance of quality and humanization in services.
Aim: To assess the presence of anxiety in schoolchildren and possible relationships with sociodemographic and behavioral factors. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, epidemiological, descriptive and analytical study conducted with 420 students from urban municipal primary schools (1st to 9th grade). The outcome variable anxiety was assessed using the “What I Think and Feel” Children’s Anxiety Scale (OQPS). The independent variables included sociodemographic factors (school grade, gender, skin color and parents’ schooling) and behavioral habits. Descriptive analyses were carried out (absolute and relative frequencies). Poisson regression models were used to analyze the associations, with single and multiple factor analyses, estimating the crude and adjusted prevalence ratios (PR), with the respective 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Variables that proved to be associated in the simple analyses up to the 20% level (p ≤ 0.20) were included in the multivariate models. Only variables associated up to the 5% level (p ≤ 0.05) were kept in the final models. Results: The estimated prevalence of anxiety was 46%. The variables that remained associated with the outcome studied were: female gender (p = 0.004), free time on the computer of 1 to 2 hours (p = 0.054) - which was borderline - practicing physical education 1 time or less (p = 0.008), consuming soft drinks 1 to 2 times (p = 0.005) and 3 times or more (p = 0.003), having a nail-biting habit (p = 0.018) and using a device (p = 0.024). Conclusion: Anxiety in adolescents is linked to behavioral factors and daily habits. Excessive use of screens and poor eating habits increase anxiety, while physical activity helps to reduce symptoms.
Association between dental caries lesion presence and previous restorative treatment
Aim: Dental caries is a biofilm- and sugar-induced disease; therefore, the management of this condition should consider its etiologic factors. Although most clinical trials have focused on operative/restorative techniques to treat dental caries, this approach only addresses the consequences of the disease: the lesions. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the association between the presence of dental caries lesions as cavities and the presence of previous tooth restorative treatments among adults. Methods: A cross-sectional survey using a database of adults aged 35 – 44 years was conducted. Dental caries lesions were evaluated using the DMFT index (decayed, missing, and filled teeth). The following variables regarding restorative treatment were considered: filled teeth with caries and filled teeth without caries. Multilevel Poisson regression models (fixed effects and random intercepts) were conducted. Results: 9,564 adults were included. The average number of teeth with untreated dental caries (crown) was 1.47. ¼ of adults had one or more filled teeth with dental caries. The presence of one or more teeth with cavitated dental caries lesions (crown) was significantly higher among adults with at least one filled tooth with caries (p < 0.05). This finding was also observed for root caries. Conclusion: The prevalence of teeth with cavitated dental caries lesions (crown and root) was higher among adults who had filled teeth with caries. These findings suggest that patients may have been treated by dentists with a focus on restorative and invasive treatments rather than on addressing the underlying disease, thereby continuing to develop new caries lesions.
Andrea Maria Eleutério de Barros lima Martins
Prevalence of care for patients aged 12 to 18 years in a dental emergency department
Aim: the present study aimed to analyze the prevalence of adolescent patients attending at the Emergency Dental Service of the Federal University of Uberlândia (PSO – UFU), to investigate the reasons why they seek care in this department, and to evaluate wether the forms related to attendance at emergency dental service are being correctly completed. This cross-sectional research analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively the attendance prevalence of teenagers aged 12 to 18 years old at PSO – UFU. Methods: The study utilized secondary data collected from the attendance forms of teenagers’ patients treated at PSO – UFU from January 2019 to January 2022. Results: The analysis revealed that a majority of patients were female (49.1%), predominantly 18 years old (35.2%), identified as mixed-race (25.7%), and most sought daytime appoitments (76.6%). Dental caries (28%), dental extractions (22.3%), endodontic access (22.1%) and pericoronaritis treatment (8.34%) were the most commonly diagnosed conditions and procedures performed, respectively. The prevalence of adolescent attendance constituted less than 10% of the total patients treated during the anylized period. It is important note the high incidence of inadequately filled forms, with blank fields such as diagnosis (41.7%), recommended procedures (8.68%) and procedures to be performed at PSO - UFU (19.3%). Conclusion: Lastly, it was evident that adolescents represent a small portion of the overall attendance at PSO – UFU during the anylized period. There is also a significant number of records lacking important data. Therefore, it is recommended to use tools to ensure the proper completion of these documents, such as training for students and the use of electronic forms, as well as a careful oversight by the teaching staff supervising the procedures performed.
Frequency and factors associated with visit to the dentist by Brazilian schoolgirls during the Covid-19 pandemic
Aim: This study aimed to investigate the influence of COVID-19 fear and oral conditions on the frequency of dental visits among Brazilian schoolchildren during the social isolation period of the pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted with a sample of 149 children and adolescents aged 8 to 16 years from a public school in the city of Maravilhas, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Data collection was performed through telephone questionnaires, obtaining information about the child’s characteristics, presence of toothache, dental trauma, possible sleep and awake bruxism, toothbrushing, and dental visits. COVID-19 fear was measured using the Brazilian version of The Fear of COVID-19 Scale. Data were entered and organized using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 21.0 software. Data analysis included descriptive analysis, univariate and multiple Poisson regression (95% CI; p < 0.05). Results: The frequency of schoolchildren’s dental visits during the pandemic was 34.2% (n = 51). Children and adolescents whose parents/guardians reported a high level of COVID-19 fear (PR: 0.508; 95% CI: 0.320 - 0.808; p = 0.004) were less likely to visit the dentist. Conversely, children and adolescents with toothache (PR: 2.453; 95% CI: 1.660 - 3.626; p < 0.001) and possible awake bruxism (PR: 1.604; 95% CI: 1.019 - 2.526; p = 0.041) were more likely to seek dental care. No statistically significant association was found between other study variables and dental visits. Conclusion: In conclusion, children and adolescents with toothache and possible awake bruxism were more likely to visit the dentist. On the other hand, parents/guardians who reported a high level of COVID-19 fear were less likely to take their children to the dentist.
Use of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy associated with endodontic treatment
Aim: To analyze the effectiveness of using antimicrobial photodynamic therapy associated with conventional endodontic treatment. Methods: This is an integrative literature review through advanced search in the National Library of Medicine (Medline/Pubmed) and Scielo databases. The descriptors used were “Endodontics; Disinfection; Photochemotherapy; Low Intensity Light Therapy” and its synonyms recognized by the Mesh and Decs vocabularies. Evaluated clinical trials and systematic reviews in English and Portuguese were included, and which addressed adult individuals. Results: 10 studies were selected which addressed the use of aPDT as a treatment for root canal infections. As for the clinical trials included in the research, the results demonstrate a reduction in bacterial load and even its total elimination after treatment with PDT in root canal infections, in addition to the suppression of multi-resistant bacteria. Conclusion: aPDT associated with endodontic treatment is an effective means of reducing bacterial load, promoting control and elimination of bacteria multi-resistant to mechanical chemical preparation during endodontic treatment. Therefore, it becomes an increasingly common, effective and safe therapy to avoid failures in root canal treatment.
Elizabeth Louisy Marques Soares da Silva-Selva
Family oral health care for children with autistic spectrum disorder
Aim: To understand the development of oral health care practices established by caregivers of children with ASD. Methods: Qualitative research performed with mothers of children with moderate or severe ASD. The study used semi-structured interviews that were audio-recorded and scripted. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed with the Grounded Theory in three coding steps, and the data were interpreted based on the Transcultural Nursing Theory. Results: From the three-step coding analysis, the data were organized into two big categories, grouping the intervening factors of the oral health care of children with ASD, the category “Cultural diversity in the care of autistic children” and the category “Cultural values behind the scenes”. Conclusion: The constructed theoretical model may assist health professionals and collective entities for people with ASD and warn about the risk of blaming caregivers for failing preventive measures.
Incorporation of Minimally Invasive Treatment Technologies in the Work of Oral Health Teams
Aim: Analyze the incorporation of minimally invasive treatment technologies in the work of the Primary Health Care Oral Health Teams in Recife, Pernambuco. Methods: This observational cross-sectional study of a descriptive nature targeted all dental surgeons (28) practicing in the health units of Health District IV of the Recife Health Department. Data collection took place in the first half of 2023 through semi-structured interviews. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics. Nineteen subjects were interviewed, resulting in a response rate of 67.86%. The prevailing ages were between 30 to 47 years old (57.8%), and the majority were female (70.7%). Among the respondents, 94.8% entered through a competitive exam and had a postgraduate degree, with 76.1% being specialists in Family Health or Public Health. Results: The majority stated that they use minimally invasive technologies, with 89.5% following institutional recommendations. These technologies were most frequently used for carious lesions (54.1%) and periodontal issues (29.1%), across different age groups and living conditions, with the highest usage in children (36.5%) and people with disabilities (39.5%). Although 68.4% reported using these technologies in community settings, there was a preference for schools and homes. The use of other social facilities was low (8.3%). Despite 94.8% of respondents having used these technologies before the Covid-19 pandemic, only 36.8% continued to use them post-pandemic. All interviewees felt qualified but expressed a need for further training (94.8%). Conclusion: These treatment technologies are incorporated into the care practices of the respondents; however, some results warrant monitoring to ensure greater confidence in the expanded and continuous use of these conservative treatment techniques.
Assessment of dental student satisfaction about the quality and viability of remote teaching in the covid-19 pandemic
Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the satisfaction of students studying oral pathology at a Brazilian university regarding the quality and feasibility of Emergency Remote Education (ERE). Methods: This was a cross-sectional study in which a virtual questionnaire was administered to all students of the 5th period who took the subject during the ERE period. Descriptive statistics were used; partial linear correlation, Spearman’s Correlation and Cronbach’s Alpha, using SPSS, version 23. Results: 154 students participated in the study, of which 72.7% were female. Only 7.1% managed to be prepared in advance for ERE; 74% agreed that ERE was well structured and 59.8% highlighted that learning exceeded expectations. As critical points, only 46.8% of students felt well prepared for the practical/clinical part; 38.3% felt motivated to learn using new digital teaching methods and 75.3% of participants claimed to prefer face-to-face teaching over ERE. About 42.9% believed that ERE requires less time effort and, on the other hand, makes it more difficult to participate 44.8%. About 54.5% of participants reported that face-to-face teaching promotes greater knowledge transfer when only 7.1% preferred ERE. Regarding technical characteristics, 83.1% judged the image and sound quality of classes to be satisfactory. Among perceived difficulties, 10.3% reported internet connection problems, interfering with the content. Conclusion: ERE proved to be an important tool during the COVID-19 pandemic as an emergency and ponctual measure to avoid interrupting studies, promoting the continuity of learning of the subject, since health students were at great risk of contagion within the context.
Self-perception of negative oral health in Brazilians with diabetes
Introduction: Oral health self-perception is a subjective indicator that reflects an individual’s perception of their own oral health condition, considering functional, social, and cultural aspects. Among people with diabetes, this perception may be affected by disease-related complications, making it relevant to investigate the factors that influence this self-perception. Objective: To identify factors associated with self-perception of negative oral health in Brazilians with diabetes. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with data from the National Health Survey of 2019. Sociodemographic characteristics, oral health habits, lifestyles and the presence of other Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) were analyzed. Unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios (PR) were estimated using Poisson regression with robust variance (α = 0.05). Results: The prevalence of negative self-perception was 36.99% (CI95%: 34.87%-39.11%). The following variables were associated with this outcome: male gender (PR:1.17; CI95%:1.05–1.30), non-white color (PR:1.17; CI95%:1.02–1.35), per capita income up to a minimum wage (PR:1.36; CI95%:1.02–1.81), alcohol abuse (PR:1.26; CI95%:1.05–1.53) and the presence of other NCDs (PR:1.34; CI95%:1.14–1.58). Lower prevalence was observed with dental brushing twice a day (PR:0.74; CI95%:0.67–0.81), the use of brush, paste and dental floss (PR:0.76; CI95%:0.66–0.86), regular dental appointments (PR:0.85; CI95%:0.75–0.96) and regular physical activities (PR:0.82; CI95%:0,70–0.95). Conclusions: Socioeconomic factors, excessive alcohol consumption and the presence of other NCDs are associated with negative self-perception of oral health . Maintaining good oral hygiene habits, performing regular dental appointments and practicing physical activities can improve this perception.
Infodemiological study of the quality, reliability and content of YouTube videos on tooth avulsion
Objective: To evaluate the content, quality and reliability of YouTube videos in Portuguese about tooth avulsion. Methods: It was an infodemiological study, in which the first 60 YouTube videos retrieved with the term “dental avulsion” were analyzed. Two researchers assessed reliability (Modified DISCERN Scale), quality (Global Quality Score - GQS), content completeness (CC) (based on International Association of Dental Traumatology guidelines) and audiovisual quality. Data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney test Spearman’s correlation (α = 5%). Results: A total of 45 videos were included. Mean quality, reliability and CC scores were 3.2 (± 1.0), 2.9 (± 0.2) and 4.9 (± 2.3), respectively. Most of the videos presented good audiovisual quality, moderate overall quality and with a greater focus on guidelines than on treatment. CC duration and score were significantly higher in high quality videos (p < 0.05). Videos posted by health professionals had the highest number of views and dislikes. There was negative and weak between DISCERN scale scores and number of likes (r = -0.298), positive and moderately between GQS scores and CC score (r = 0.597). CC was positively correlated with the duration of the videos (r = 0.313). Conclusion: In general, videos of tooth avulsion with low reliability, quality and low content are published on YouTube.
Oral health in primary care panorama in Bahia macro-regions
Aim: To identify the oral health panorama in Primary Health Care, from 2012 to 2022, in the health macro-regions of Bahia. Methods: A descriptive ecological study was carried out using data from the indicators of the proportion of exodontia, first programmatic dental appointment, average supervised brushing and population coverage of Oral Health Teams. Results: Most of Bahia's health macro-regions showed a decline in the indicator for the proportion of exodontia in relation to individual preventive and curative procedures, suggesting a reduction in mutilating procedures in the public service. The data also showed a sharp decline in the indicators for coverage of the first programmatic dental appointment and average supervised brushing, as well as a decline in the estimated population coverage of the OHC, conditions which may hinder the population's access to quality oral health care. Conclusion: The need to use indicators for oral health planning is emphasized, and it is hoped that the new definitions for the sector, proposed for 2023, can effectively improve the quality the oral health care. Uniterms: health status indicators; Primary Health Care; dental health services.
Effect of gingival needle design and diameter on pain level of supraperiosteal anesthetic injection
Aim: evaluate the level of pain during the application of supraperiosteal anesthetic injections in upper lateral incisors with gingival needles of different diameters, and its correlation with levels of dental anxiety. Methods: one hundred and twenty volunteers, aged between 18 and 74 years old, from a Dental School Clinic were randomly distributed into two groups according to the type of anesthetic needle: Septodont XL (n = 60) and Dencojet (n = 60). The level of dental anxiety was measured at the beginning of the consultation using the Corah Dental Anxiety Scale. Participants rated the pain experienced at three phases: during the needle insertion, needle placement, and solution deposition using a Heft-Parker visual analogue scale (VAS HP). Statistical analyzes were performed using the Jamovi 2.3.28.0 software (p < 0,05). Results: the pain perceived by female participants (VAS HP = 33.8 mm) was significantly greater (Mann-Whitney U test, p < 0.05) than the pain perceived by male participants (VAS HP = 21.2 mm). No significant differences were found in patients’ dental anxiety and perceived pain between the Deconjet and Septoject XL needles during the needle insertion, needle placement and solution deposition phases (Mann-Whitney U test, p > 0.05). Furthermore, the pain perceived by patients between anesthetic injection phases and age groups was statistically similar (Kruskal-Wallis test, p > 0.05). Conclusion: that the level of anxiety of patients before the anesthetic injection varied from very little (Dencojet) to mild (Septoject XL), but pain perceived between the Dencojet and Septoject XL needles was similar. Female participants reported higher levels of pain, regardless of the type of anesthetic needle.
Aim: To evaluate in vitro the antimicrobial effect of a mouthwash based on pomegranate peel against microorganisms of dental interest. Methods: An ethanolic extract from pomegranate peel was produced, and its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against S. aureus, E. coli, E. faecalis and K. pneumoniae was determined. 96-well plates and extract concentrations ranging from 1000 to 62.5 μg/mL were used. A mouthwash was produced based on MIC, and its antibacterial efficacy was tested against the same bacteria in the previously described test. Results: The MIC found for the ethanolic extract of P. granatum was 125 μg/mL for E. Coli and 62.5 μg/mL for K. pneumoniae, S. aureus and E. faecalis, with bactericidal effect for the first and last bacteria and bacteriostatic for K. pneumoniae and S. aureus. After determining the MIC, the mouthwash solution was prepared with 250 μg/mL concentration and the results were repeated as those obtained with the crude ethanolic extract. Conclusion: The mouthwash solution based on the ethanolic extract of Punica granatum Linn demonstrated antibacterial activity against the aforementioned strains. The obtained results reinforce the importance of carrying out further studies so that this solution can be tested in vivo and subsequently commercialized.
Cláudia Cristina Brainer de Oliveira Mota
Malocclusion Severity Index in primary dentition
Aim: To develop and validate the Malocclusion Severity Index (MSI), which assesses the presence and severity of malocclusion in primary dentition. Materials and Methods: 294 children aged 3-5 years were examined in 33 occlusal traits by calibrated examiners. Descriptive analysis, and univariate and multivariate linear regressions were performed. A final equation identified the influence of trait on the malocclusion severity of each child (lip coverage x 3) + (crowding x 2) + (diastema x 0.5) + (overbite x 0.5) + (anterior open bite x 1) + (anterior mandibular overjet x 2) + 3 (derived from the constant). The MSI value for each of the participants was calculated. The Kruskal-Wallis test determined the significance between each professional’s assessment and the MSI score (p < 0.05). MSI was categorized as absent, mild, moderate and severe malocclusion. The Mann-Whitney test determined the discriminant validity. Results: Some occlusal traits were independently associated with the perception of the severity of malocclusion by the professional (p < 0.05). Classification of the severity of malocclusion according to the MSI was associated (p < 0.001) with the perception of malocclusion by the professional, which demonstrated the discriminant validity of the instrument. Conclusion: The MSI was effective in discriminating malocclusion in primary dentition by different degrees of severity.
In its 60th anniversary year, one of the oldest Brazilian scientific journals in Dentistry is undergoing a process of reinvention to fully realize its mission of promoting and disseminating intellectual production in the fields of health and education in Dentistry.
User satisfaction in the Periodontics service of a Dental Specialty Center in northeastern Brazil
Aim: To assess user satisfaction with a Dental Specialty Center in Northeastern Brazil and explore quality dimensions related to Periodontics. Methods: This observational, analytical, and cross-sectional study was conducted in a Periodontics service. Questionnaires were administered to gather sociodemographic profiles and evaluate quality using the Questionnaire for Quality Evaluation of Oral Health (QASSaB). Descriptive statistics and the Mann-Whitney test were applied, with a significance level of 5%. Results: Among the 105 patients, 86.4% rated the dental care provided as good. The mean QASSaB score was 3.77, with the lowest mean observed in the accessibility/availability dimension. The other dimensions demonstrated high satisfaction levels with the health services offered. Satisfaction with dental conditions was positively associated with QASSaB scores (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The overall QASSaB mean score reflected a positive evaluation of the Periodontics service, with scores indicating satisfaction levels ranging from satisfied to completely satisfied. Regarding oral health, most users reported being satisfied, despite a high prevalence of dental problems. Satisfaction with dental conditions showed a positive association with the overall QASSaB scores.
Stomatological profile of elderly patients who received dental care at a reference Hospital of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais – Brazil
Aim: The aim of this study was to draw a stomatological profile of elderly patients treated at the Stomatology Service of a referral hospital in the city of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais – Brazil. Methods: Information was collected on the diagnostic hypotheses and definitive diagnoses of the elderly (aged 60 to 98 years) treated at the service, from September 2014 to December 2017. Results: Medical records of 1388 patients were evaluated, and 281 different diagnostic hypotheses were found. For males, there was a higher prevalence in both diagnostic and definitive diagnoses for benign and malignant epithelial neoplasms; In females, there was a higher prevalence, also in the hypotheses and diagnostic definitions, of inflammatory fibrous hyperplasia, related to the use of removable prostheses. Conclusion: Thus, this study evidenced the importance of knowledge about the main alterations that affect the oral cavity of elderly patients, which allows better attention to this population, besides being a pioneering stomatological study in hospital units.
Effect of low-level laser therapy in the treatment of oral mucositis in patients with head and neck cancer
Aim: This article aims to evaluate, using the best sources of evidence, the contribution of low-level lasers in treating oral mucositis in patients with oral cancer. Methods: This review, including the entire process of the selection of studies and preparation of results, complied with the PRISMA-ScR protocol guidelines. At the end of the predefined analyses (title, abstract, and full text), 02 studies were included that correctly fit the eligibility criteria. These were published in 2015 and 2019 and were classified according to level II of the Agency for Healthcare of Research and Quality (AHRG). After critically reading the study, the common topics addressed in this scoping review were defined. Results: Two works brought considerations about the laser therapy protocol, the use of the visible red wavelength, and energy densities between 3 and 4 J/cm². In addition, positive correlations were identified between painful symptoms and nutritional status with oral mucositis, as low-level laser therapy reduced pain and weight loss and improved the nutritional quality of cancer patients. Conclusion: Photobiomodulation proved effective in treating mucositis at higher degrees. Scientific evidence on this topic is still being developed, but it will be promising and valid if more research is conducted.