Discussão sobre políticas públicas relacionadas ao edentulismo

Abstract

The present article approaches questions related to edentulism, that is, the absence of dental elements. Edentulism can be considered as one of the main problems affecting oral health, affecting the quality of life and welfare conditions of the population, demonstrating the lack of access to public health services and the prevailing practices of oral care. Public policies play a key role in the edentulous landscape. In the context of oral health, it is essential to know their clinical needs and to have knowledge of oral health conditions and their consequences on quality of life, capable of motivating treatment agreement and self-care. The objective of this work was to discuss public policies related to oral health with a focus on edentulism. To this end, a theoretical essay was developed based on literature related to the themes. Among the main results is the exposure of initiatives and actions of public policies with potential to promote oral health and prevent edentulism. Thus, it is concluded that including as a requirement for the family benefiting from social and governmental programs the visit of children to the dentist with periodic annual follow-up at the UBS and intensifying visits to schools by oral health teams to encourage and guide students regarding correct way to brush your teeth, as well as about the importance of oral hygiene.