Access to Dental Services and Related Factors in Adolescents from Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil, 2011

ABSTRACT

To characterize access of adolescents to dental services and identify its determinants. Material and Methods:This is a cross-sectional, population-based study conducted with a representative sample of 431 adolescents aged 15-19 years in a health district of Vitória, ES. The interviews were guided by a structured questionnaire with socio-demographic questions, service utilization, and self-perceived oral health. SPSS statistical software version 15.0 was used. Statistical analysis consisted of the use of simple frequency with proportion and chi-square tests. Significance level of 5% was adopted.Results:Most respondents visit the dentist at least once a year, having as main reason routine visit, are attended in public services and positively evaluate the service provided. Factors associated with greater access to dental services (consultation once a year) were care in private service (p = 0.000), schooling (p = 0.019) and positive self-perceived oral health (p = 0.047). Conclusion:It was concluded that the prevalence of recent use of dental services among adolescents was high and access was related to service profile, self-perceived oral health and schooling...