Generalized anxiety disorder in Brazilian undergraduate dental students during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: Explore the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and associated factors in undergraduate dental students during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study. A semi-structured questionnaire addressing the variables of interest was shared with dental students between July 8 and 27 2020. The outcome was determined using the seven-item generalized anxiety disorder (GAD-7) scale. A 'positive' diagnosis was defined as a total of ≥10 points on the scale. Statistical analysis involved descriptive, bivariate and multivariate analyses, with the significance level set at 5%. RESULTS: Among the 1050 students evaluated, 53.8% had a positive diagnosis for GAD. The multivariate analysis revealed that the prevalence of symptoms was higher among individuals who resided with more than three people, those enrolled at teaching institutions that suspended all clinical and laboratory activities, those who did not have an adequate home situation to maintain distance learning, those who had been diagnosed with COVID-19, those who felt anxious about having to see patients with a suspicion or diagnosis of COVID-19 and those who preferred to interrupt in-person academic activities until the population is vaccinated for the COVID-19 virus. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of GAD was high. Aspects related to the composition and organization of the home, the suspension of academic activities, a history of COVID-19 contamination, feelings of anxiety in providing dental care to patients with symptoms/suspected of COVID-19 infection and the preference to interrupt in-person academic activities until the population is vaccinated for COVID-19 were factors predisposing the students to anxiety during the first wave of the pandemic.

Perception of parents and caregivers about the need for dental appointments for adolescents from a Brazilian birth cohort.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the perception of parents or caregivers regarding the need for dental appointments for adolescents aged 12-13 years and associated factors. METHODS: Data from the Pelotas 2004 Birth Cohort were used. The outcome variable was the need for dental appointments for young adolescents perceived by parents or caregivers. Demographic and economic exposure variables were obtained from the first (2004) and sixth general follow-up (2015), respectively. The exposure variables 'previous history of dental pain', 'self-rated oral health', clinical variables and the outcome variable were obtained from the second oral health follow-up (2017). Unadjusted and adjusted multivariate Poisson regression analyses provided prevalence ratios (PR) and respective 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS: At the first oral health follow-up (2009), 1303 five-year-old children were recruited, 996 of whom were reassessed and underwent oral health examinations at 12 and 13 years of age (response rate: 76.4%). The findings showed that 72.4% of parents/caregivers perceived that the adolescents needed dental appointments. No associations were found between the outcome and sociodemographic or economic variables. After adjustments, the outcome remained positively associated with previous history of toothache (PR 1.22; 95% CI 1.14-1.32), self-rated oral health as fair or poor (PR 1.26; 95% CI 1.15-1.39), the presence of dental caries (PR 1.27; 95% CI 1.20-1.38) and severe or disabling malocclusion (PR 1.14; 95% CI 1.05-1.25). CONCLUSIONS: The perception of parents/caregivers regarding the need for dental appointments on the part of their adolescent sons and daughters was associated with oral health problems, and these findings can serve as the basis for creating and improving oral health programmes that seek a better understanding on the part of parents and caregivers regarding the importance of integral care for their adolescent children.

Agreement between self-rated denture condition and clinical examination in older adults.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare differences between complete denture conditions self-rated by older adult wearers and clinically exanimated by a professional based on standardised aesthetics and functional criteria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Complete denture clinical examination was based on the functional (stability, retention, occlusion and articulation, vertical dimension of occlusion) and aesthetics criteria. Data on self-rated complete denture conditions were measured using the Patient's Denture Assessment (PDA) questionnaire based on standardised aesthetic and functional criteria (n = 122). Prevalence rates of clinical and self-rated complete denture condition, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and absolute and relative bias were calculated. RESULTS: The highest sensitivity (66.7% [95% CI 55.3-76.7]) was obtained for aesthetic criterion, whereas occlusion revealed the lowest sensitivity (14.9% [95% CI 6.2-28.3]). Stability had the highest specificity (91.3% [95% CI 72.0-98.9]) and aesthetics the lowest (21.4% [95% CI 8.3-41.0]). Stability also yielded the highest positive predictive value (83.3% [95% CI 51.6-97.9]), and vertical dimension of occlusion the lowest (26.3% [95% CI 9.1-51.2]). The vertical dimension of occlusion yielded the highest negative predictive value (71.2% [95% CI 58.7-81.7]). Self-rated data underestimated the complete denture condition in 6.5% compared with clinical examinations when the aesthetic criterion was excluded from the analysis and 7.6% when added. CONCLUSIONS: Older adult wearers better identified the condition of their complete denture when the aesthetic criterion was excluded from examination. In contrast, considering functional criteria (retention, stability, occlusion and vertical dimension of occlusion), self-rated complete denture conditions underestimated clinical examination. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Using standardised aesthetic criteria in epidemiological studies for assessing complete denture conditions self-rated by wearers could avoid underestimating or overestimating the information regarding the use or need for dental prostheses.

Factors associated with the use of dental services in the previous 12 and 36 months by Brazilian older people residing in rural areas.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the use of dental services in two periods and associated factors in older people residing in the rural area of a municipality in southern Brazil. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study nested in a cohort study. A standardised questionnaire was used to collect the variables of interest. The dependent variables were the use of dental services in the 12 and 36 months prior to the interview. RESULTS: A total of 863 older people were interviewed, 24.7% of whom had visited a dentist in the previous year and 38.7% had visited a dentist in the previous 3 years. Skin colour, health insurance and self-rated health were associated with both outcomes. Individuals with non-white skin, those who did not have health insurance and those who considered their health to be poor or very poor were more likely to take a long time before seeking oral health services. Differences between the two outcomes were observed in oral health and the use of tobacco. The likelihood of having gone more than 3 years without visiting a dentist was greater among smokers and lower among those with dental caries. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of dental service use was low. Variables related to the adoption of unhealthy behaviours and the occurrence of oral diseases were only related to the use of dental services 36 months prior to the interview. Public policies must be reorganised to prioritise population groups with greater difficulties in the use of dental services.

COVID-19 pandemic and impact on dental education: perception of Brazilian dental students

Aim: The aim of the present study is to assess the perception of undergraduate students on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Brazilian dental education. Methods: This crosssectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire hosted in Google Forms platform and publicized on Instagram® and Facebook®. The questionnaire was available between July 8-27, 2020. Absolute and relative frequencies were obtained for variables of interest using Pearson's chi-squared and considering 95% confidence intervals. Prevalence of learning resource variables according to self-reported skin color, educational institution, and Brazilian region were presented using equiplots. Results: A total of 1,050 undergraduate dental students answered the questionnaire. Most students reported being in full-distance learning mode. Among the undergraduate students, 65.4% reported perceiving a very high impact in dental education, and 16.6% of students reported not being able to follow distance learning. In addition, 14% reported not having a personal laptop or desktop to study with, with this condition being more prevalent among non-white than white individuals. Conclusion: We conclude that Brazilian dental students perceived a high impact of COVID-19 on dental education, as well as one-sixth of the students reported not having adequate resources to continue with distance learning. It is important that different policies are developed at the institutional and governmental levels to reduce the impact of the pandemic on dental education

Factors associated with the reduction of dental care in Primary Health Care in Brazil after the emergence of COVID-19: a cross-sectional study, 2020. / Fatores associados à redução de atendimentos odontológicos na Atenção Primária à Saúde no Brasil, com o surgimento da COVID-19: estudo transversal, 2020.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze factors associated with the reduction of dental care in Primary Health Care, during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study conducted with dentists in primary healthcare centers (PHCCs). The reduction of dental care was the outcome, and the exposure variables were sociodemographic data, availability of personal protective equipment (PPE) and measures adopted by PHCCs during the pandemic. Poisson regression was performed to determine the prevalence ratio and 95% confidence interval (95%CI). RESULTS: Of the total of 958 participants, 62.6% reported a reduction of over 50% in dental visits after the beginning of the pandemic. Adoption of biosafety protocols (PR = 1.04; 95%CI 1.01;1.07), availability of PPE recommended by new protocols (PR = 0.94; 95%CI 0.89;0.99) and adoption of tele-screening (PR = 0.90; 95%CI 0.85;0.96) were associated with the reduction. CONCLUSION: The availability of new types of PPE and implementation of tele-screening in PHCCs seem to have minimized the reduction of dental care after the beginning of the pandemic.

Factors associated with the reduction of dental care appointments in Primary Health Care in Brazil with the emergence of COVID-19: cross-sectional study, 2020 / Factores asociados a la reducción de la atención odontológica en Atención Primaria de Salud en Brasil con la aparición de COVID-19: estudio transversal, 2020 / Fatores associados à redução de atendimentos odontológicos na Atenção Primária à Saúde no Brasil, com o surgimento da COVID-19: estudo transversal, 2020

Objective: To analyze the associated factors of reductions for dental visits performed in Primary Health Care (PHC) in Brazil during COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Crosssectional study with PHC dentists. The outcome was a reduction in dental care appointments and that the exposure variables included sociodemographic factors, aspects about personal protective clothing and equipment (PPE) and measures adopted by the Basic Health Unit (UBS) in Brazil after the appearance of COVID. Poisson regression was performed, used to determine the prevalence ratio and 95% confidence interval. Results: Reduction in visits above 50% after the onset of the pandemic was reported by 62.6% of 958 participating. Biosafety protocols (PR=1.04 ­ 95%CI 1.01;1.07), PPE suggested by the protocols (PR=0.94 ­ 95%CI 0.89;0.99), and telescreening (PR=0.90 ­ 95%CI 0.85;0.96) were factors associated with this reduction. Conclusion: The availability of the new PPE and the implementation of telescreening at UBS seem to have minimized the reduction in dental care after the onset of the pandemic

Objetivo: Analizar factores asociados a la reducción de consultas odontológicas en Atención Primaria de Salud (APS) en Brasil durante COVID-19. Métodos: Estudio transversal con dentistas de APS. El hecho investigado fue reducción de consultas odontológicas y las variables de exposición incluyeron factores sociodemográficos, aspectos de los equipos de protección personal (EPI) y las medidas adoptadas por la Unidad Básica de Salud (UBS) tras la aparición del COVID. Regresión de Poisson utilizada para determinar la razón de prevalencia y el intervalo de confianza del 95%. Resultados: El 62,6% de los 958 participantes informó una reducción en la asistencia superior al 50% después del inicio de la pandemia. La adopción de protocolos (RP=1,04 ­ IC95% 1,01;1,07), disponibilidad de EPI recomendado por los nuevos protocolos (RP=0,94 ­ IC95% 0,89;0,99) y la adopción de televaluación (RP=0,90 ­ IC95% 0,85;0,96) fueron factores que se asoció con esta reducción. Conclusión: La disponibilidad del nuevo EPP y la implementación de la teleprotección en UBS parecen haber minimizado la reducción en la atención dental después del inicio de la pandemia.

Objetivo: Analisar fatores associados à redução de atendimentos odontológicos na Atenção Primária à Saúde, durante pandemia de COVID-19 no Brasil. Métodos: Estudo transversal, com cirurgiões-dentistas das unidades básicas de saúde (UBS). O desfecho foi a redução dos atendimentos odontológicos, e as variáveis de exposição, dados sociodemográficos, disponibilidade de equipamentos de proteção individual (EPIs) e medidas adotadas pela UBS na pandemia. Realizou-se regressão de Poisson para determinar razão de prevalências e intervalo de confiança de 95%. Resultados: A redução de atendimentos acima de 50% após o início da pandemia foi relatada por 62,6% dos 958 participantes. Adoção de protocolos de biossegurança (RP=1,04 ­ IC95% 1,01;1,07), disponibilidade de EPI preconizados por novos protocolos (RP=0,94 ­ IC95% 0,89;0,99) e adoção da teletriagem (RP=0,90 ­ IC95% 0,85;0,96) estiveram associados à redução. Conclusão: A disponibilização dos novos EPIs e a implementação da teletriagem nas UBS parecem ter minimizado a redução dos atendimentos odontológicos após o início da pandemia.

Knowledge About Biosafety Measures in Clinical Setting During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study With Brazilian Dental Students.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the knowledge of Brazilian dental students about biosafety measures that should be adopted in the clinical setting during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. METHODS: A cross-sectional study with 1050 dental students was conducted. A semi-structured questionnaire was shared with students. Mean knowledge score on biosafety guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic was the outcome, with a maximum of 8 scores. Explanatory variables included sociodemographic and educational characteristics, aspects related to biosafety education, actions adopted by the dental schools during the pandemic, and sources of biosafety information. Multivariate linear regression analyses were performed. RESULTS: Mean knowledge score was 5.19 (1.28). Female students (ß = 0.346; 95% CI: 0.154-0.539), those enrolled in the intermediate (ß = 0.525; 95% CI: 0.167-0.883) or final (ß = 0.569; 95% CI: 0.200-0.937) stage of course, and those who had already received theoretical-practical training in biosafety (ß = 0.464; 95% CI: 0.063-0.866) presented higher mean knowledge scores. Students who did not receive guidance on aerosol control measures before the pandemic (ß = -0.324; 95% CI: -0.519 to -0.130) had the lowest score. CONCLUSION: Students presented a medium level of knowledge about dental biosafety measures concerning the COVID-19 pandemic. Sociodemographic characteristics and those related to the institutional profile of the participants, and access to orientation and training in biosafety, may influence their knowledge.

Fatores associados à redução de atendimentos odontológicos na Atenção Primária à Saúde no Brasil, com o surgimento da COVID-19: estudo transversal, 2020 / Factores asociados a la reducción de la atención odontológica en Atención Primaria de Salud en Brasil con la aparición de COVID-19: estudio transversal, 2020 / Factors associated with the reduction of dental care in Primary Health Care in Brazil after the emergence of COVID-19: a cross-sectional study, 2020

Objetivo: Analisar fatores associados à redução de atendimentos odontológicos na Atenção Primária à Saúde, durante pandemia de COVID-19 no Brasil. Métodos: Estudo transversal, com cirurgiões-dentistas das unidades básicas de saúde (UBS). O desfecho foi a redução dos atendimentos odontológicos, e as variáveis de exposição, dados sociodemográficos, disponibilidade de equipamentos de proteção individual (EPIs) e medidas adotadas pela UBS na pandemia. Realizou-se regressão de Poisson para determinar razão de prevalências e intervalo de confiança de 95% (IC95%). Resultados: A redução de atendimentos acima de 50% após o início da pandemia foi relatada por 62,6% dos 958 participantes. Adoção de protocolos de biossegurança (RP = 1,04; IC95% 1,01;1,07), disponibilidade de EPIs preconizados por novos protocolos (RP = 0,94; IC95% 0,89;0,99) e adoção da teletriagem (RP = 0,90; IC95% 0,85;0,96) estiveram associados à redução. Conclusão: A disponibilização dos novos EPIs e a implementação da teletriagem nas UBS parecem ter minimizado a redução dos atendimentos odontológicos após o início da pandemia.

Objetivo: Analizar factores asociados a la reducción de consultas odontológicas en Atención Primaria de Salud en Brasil durante el COVID-19. Métodos: Estudio transversal con cirujanos dentistas de las Unidades Básicas de Salud (UBS). El hecho investigado fue la reducción de consultas odontológicas y las variables de exposición incluyeron factores sociodemográficos, aspectos de los equipos de protección personal (EPPs) y las medidas adoptadas por la UBS tras la aparición del COVID. La regresión de Poisson se utilizó para determinar la razón de prevalencia y el intervalo de confianza del 95% (IC95%). Resultados: El 62,6% de los 958 participantes informó una reducción en la asistencia superior al 50% después del inicio de la pandemia. La adopción de protocolos (RP = 1,04; IC95% 1,01;1,07), disponibilidad de EPPs recomendados por los nuevos protocolos (RP = 0,94; IC95% 0,89;0,99) y la adopción de teletriaje (RP = 0,90; IC95% 0,85;0,96) fueron factores que se asociaron con esta reducción. Conclusión: La disponibilidad del nuevo EPP y la implementación de la teleprotección en las UBS parecen haber minimizado la reducción en la atención bucal después del inicio de la pandemia.

Objective: To analyze factors associated with the reduction of dental care in Primary Health Care, during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted with dentists in primary healthcare centers (PHCCs). The reduction of dental care was the outcome, and the exposure variables were sociodemographic data, availability of personal protective equipment (PPE) and measures adopted by PHCCs during the pandemic. Poisson regression was performed to determine the prevalence ratio and 95% confidence interval (95%CI). Results: Of the total of 958 participants, 62.6% reported a reduction of over 50% in dental visits after the beginning of the pandemic. Adoption of biosafety protocols (PR = 1.04; 95%CI 1.01;1.07), availability of PPE recommended by new protocols (PR = 0.94; 95%CI 0.89;0.99) and adoption of tele-screening (PR = 0.90; 95%CI 0.85;0.96) were associated with the reduction. Conclusion: The availability of new types of PPE and implementation of tele-screening in PHCCs seem to have minimized the reduction of dental care after the beginning of the pandemic.

Anxiety symptoms and alcohol abuse during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study with Brazilian dental undergraduate students.

AIM: The aim of this study is to assess whether anxiety symptoms are associated with alcohol abuse in Brazilian undergraduate dental students during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted. A semi-structured questionnaire addressing the variables of interest was hosted on Google Forms and shared with dental undergraduate students from all Brazilian regions between July 8 and 27, 2020. Alcohol abuse was measured using the Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, Eye opener (CAGE) questionnaire score of ≥2. All participants responded to the seven-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7). Hierarchical logistic regression was also conducted. RESULTS: Among the 1050 students evaluated, 18.7% (n = 196) had a positive screening for alcohol abuse during the pandemic. The prevalence of mild (GAD-7 = 5-9), moderate (GAD-7 = 10-14), and severe (GAD-7 ≥15) anxiety among students were 31.3%, 29.6%, and 24.2%, respectively. The final hierarchical logistic regression model showed that during the COVID-19 pandemic, anxiety levels predict the likelihood of alcohol abuse among students with moderate (OR 10.05 [95% IC: 4.12-24.52]) or severe (OR 15.82 [95% IC: 6.46-38.73]) anxiety, especially for male students (moderate anxiety: OR 17.06 [95% CI: 8.36-34.78]; severe anxiety: OR 28.38 [95% CI: 8.62-38.24]). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of alcohol abuse and moderate or severe anxiety in Brazilian undergraduate dental students during the COVID-19 pandemic was high. Male students may be more sensitive to the presence of anxiety symptoms in this period, thus contributing to higher levels of alcohol consumption, in comparison to female students. Intervention strategies that promote the adoption of healthier lifestyles can enable the effective management of anxiety symptoms during the pandemic and thus, hold the potential to reduce exacerbated alcohol intake in this population.

Oral health and depressive symptoms among older adults: longitudinal study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of depressive symptoms and determine the association with oral health variables in older adults belonging to an oral health cohort. METHOD: A prospective longitudinal study was conducted between 2009 and 2015. A standardized questionnaire was administered to collect demographic-socioeconomic variables and self-perceived oral health status. The clinical oral examinations were performed by examiners who had undergone training and calibration exercises. Depressive symptoms (outcome) were measured using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15), with a score of five points or higher considered indicative of the presence of depressive symptoms. RESULTS: A total of 439 and 163 older adults (≥60 years of age) were evaluated in 2009 and 2015, respectively. The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 18.3% in 2009 and 28.5% in 2015. In the adjusted Poisson regression model, older adults who experienced tooth loss between 2009 and 2015 (PR = 1.86; 95% CI: 1.01-3.53) and those with a sensation of dry mouth in 2015 but not in 2009 (PR = 3.25 95% CI: 1.56-6.72) were at greater risk of exhibiting depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION: In this study, the prevalence of depressive symptoms was considerable. Older adults with tooth loss between 2009 and 2015 and those with a perception of dry mouth were at greater risk of exhibiting depressive symptoms, which underscores the importance of including a dentist as part of the health team for the prevention and treatment of mental health problems.

Regular use of dental services among university students in southern Brazil.

OBJECTIVE To verify the prevalence and factors associated with regular use of dental services in university students of the Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel). METHODS This cross-sectional study interviewed 1,865 students aged 18 years or older, starting bachelor's degrees in 2017, enrolled in the second academic semester of 2017 and in the first of 2018 in classroom courses at UFPel. We considered regular users those who reported regularly going to the dentist with or without perceived dental problems. To test factors associated with regular use of dental services, demographic, socioeconomic and oral health variables were collected. Statistical analyses were based on Poisson regression models. RESULTS The prevalence of regular use of dental services was 45.0% (95%CI 42.7-47.3). University students of high economic class (PR = 1.47; 95%CI 0.91-2.36), with last private dental appointment (PR = 1.29; 95%CI 1.03-1.61), positive self-perception of oral health (PR = 2.33; 95%CI 1.79-3.03) and no report of toothache in the last six months (PR = 1.22; 95%CI 1.03-1.45) showed higher prevalence of regular use of dental services. CONCLUSION The results point to inequalities in the regular use of dental services related to socioeconomic factors and a lower use among university students with worse oral health conditions. These results suggest that public health prevention and promotion policies in higher education institutions must be carried out to ensure quality of life among these young adults.

Regular dental care in preschoolers in rural Southern Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate if factors related to the mother's previous guidance on her children's dental health and the school attendance of children influence the regular dental care of preschoolers living in the rural area of a municipality in Southern Brazil. METHODS: A population-based study was conducted with 264 children under five years of age and their mothers. Socioeconomic and behavioral data were collected using a questionnaire, and the children were subjected to dental health tests. The outcome was the regular use of dental services. The main exposure variables were children's care in daycare centers or schools and maternal guidance on the child's dental health. Poisson regression analysis with robust variance adjustment was used to estimate prevalence ratios, considering a 95% confidence interval. RESULTS: The prevalence of regular use was 11.4% (95%CI 7.5-15.2). In the adjusted analysis, the regular use of services was associated with the child attending day care center/school (PR = 2.44; 95%CI 1.38-4.34), and the mother received dental health guidance (PR = 4.13; 95%CI 1.77-9.61), even with control for socioeconomic, maternal and child variables. CONCLUSION: When mothers receive previous information on child dental health care and children attend schools or daycare centers, the likelihood of regular dental appointments in preschoolers living in rural locations increases.

Impact of Seniors Centers on oral health-related quality of life of older adults.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of older adults participating or not in Seniors Centers (SC). METHODS: Two independent samples were compared: older adults who participate in SC (n = 124) and older adults who visited Primary Healthcare Centers (PHC) and do not participate in SC (n = 164). The data collected consisted of sociodemographic (sex, age, educational level, marital status, family income) and psychosocial characteristics-Sense of Coherence (SOC), anxiety and depression using HADS, happiness-, and oral clinical evaluation-use and need of dental prosthesis and decayed (D), missing (M), or filled (F) teeth. The resulting OHRQoL was evaluated using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14). The Mann-Whitney test was used to assess the associations between the independent variables and the OHIP-14. Poisson regression models were also used in the analyses (α=0.05). RESULTS: In the PHC, of the 270 individuals invited to participate in the study, 164 (60.7%) were interviewed and clinically examined; while in the SC, of the 166 individuals invited to participate in the study, 124 (74.7%) were interviewed and clinically examined. After adjustments for sociodemographic, psychosocial and clinical factors, we found that the impact on OHRQoL was 2.8 times higher (95%CI 2.0-4.2) for older adults who did not participate in SC. CONCLUSION: Older adults who participated in SC showed better perception on OHRQoL, independently of sociodemographic, psychosocial and clinical factors.

Impact of seniors centers on oral health-related quality of life of older adults

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE This study evaluated the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of older adults participating or not in Seniors Centers (SC). METHODS Two independent samples were compared: older adults who participate in SC (n = 124) and older adults who visited Primary Healthcare Centers (PHC) and do not participate in SC (n = 164). The data collected consisted of sociodemographic (sex, age, educational level, marital status, family income) and psychosocial characteristics—Sense of Coherence (SOC), anxiety and depression using HADS, happiness—, and oral clinical evaluation—use and need of dental prosthesis and decayed (D), missing (M), or filled (F) teeth. The resulting OHRQoL was evaluated using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14). The Mann-Whitney test was used to assess the associations between the independent variables and the OHIP-14. Poisson regression models were also used in the analyses (α=0.05). RESULTS In the PHC, of the 270 individuals invited to participate in the study, 164 (60.7%) were interviewed and clinically examined; while in the SC, of the 166 individuals invited to participate in the study, 124 (74.7%) were interviewed and clinically examined. After adjustments for sociodemographic, psychosocial and clinical factors, we found that the impact on OHRQoL was 2.8 times higher (95%CI 2.0-4.2) for older adults who did not participate in SC. CONCLUSION Older adults who participated in SC showed better perception on OHRQoL, independently of sociodemographic, psychosocial and clinical factors.

Regular use of dental services among university students in southern Brazil / Uso regular de serviços odontológicos entre alunos de uma universidade do sul do Brasil

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To verify the prevalence and factors associated with regular use of dental services in university students of the Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel). METHODS This cross-sectional study interviewed 1,865 students aged 18 years or older, starting bachelor's degrees in 2017, enrolled in the second academic semester of 2017 and in the first of 2018 in classroom courses at UFPel. We considered regular users those who reported regularly going to the dentist with or without perceived dental problems. To test factors associated with regular use of dental services, demographic, socioeconomic and oral health variables were collected. Statistical analyses were based on Poisson regression models. RESULTS The prevalence of regular use of dental services was 45.0% (95%CI 42.7-47.3). University students of high economic class (PR = 1.47; 95%CI 0.91-2.36), with last private dental appointment (PR = 1.29; 95%CI 1.03-1.61), positive self-perception of oral health (PR = 2.33; 95%CI 1.79-3.03) and no report of toothache in the last six months (PR = 1.22; 95%CI 1.03-1.45) showed higher prevalence of regular use of dental services. CONCLUSION The results point to inequalities in the regular use of dental services related to socioeconomic factors and a lower use among university students with worse oral health conditions. These results suggest that public health prevention and promotion policies in higher education institutions must be carried out to ensure quality of life among these young adults.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Verificar a prevalência e os fatores associados ao uso regular de serviços odontológicos em acadêmicos da Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel). MÉTODOS Este estudo transversal entrevistou 1.865 estudantes de 18 anos ou mais de idade, ingressantes em 2017, matriculados no segundo semestre letivo de 2017 e no primeiro de 2018 em cursos presenciais da UFPel. Consideraram-se usuários regulares os indivíduos que relataram ir regularmente ao dentista com ou sem problemas dentários percebidos. A fim de testar fatores associados ao uso regular de serviços odontológicos, foram coletadas variáveis demográficas, socioeconômicas e de saúde bucal. As análises estatísticas foram baseadas em modelos de regressão de Poisson. RESULTADOS A prevalência de uso regular de serviços odontológicos foi de 45,0% (IC95% 42,7-47,3). Os universitários de classe econômica elevada (RP = 1,47; IC95% 0,91-2,36), com última consulta odontológica particular (RP = 1,29; IC95% 1,03-1,61), autopercepção positiva da saúde bucal (RP = 2,33; IC95% 1,79-3,03) e sem relato de dor de dente nos últimos seis meses (RP = 1,22; IC95% 1,03-1,45) apresentaram maiores prevalências de uso regular dos serviços odontológicos. CONCLUSÃO Os resultados apontam para desigualdades no uso regular dos serviços odontológicos relacionadas a fatores socioeconômicos e um menor uso entre os universitários com piores condições de saúde bucal. Esses resultados sugerem que políticas públicas de prevenção e promoção em saúde em instituições de ensino superior devem ser realizadas para garantir qualidade de vida entre esses jovens.

Prevalência e fatores associados a dor dentária - estudo de base populacional com adultos e idosos do sul do Brasil / Prevalence and factors associated with tooth pain - a population-based study with adults and elderly from southern Brazil

Introdução: A dor dentária, ou odontalgia, é definida como uma dor de origem orofacial, que ocorre como consequência dos problemas que afetam os dentes e as estruturas de suporte. Objetivo: O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar os fatores associados à dor dentária em indivíduos com 18 anos ou mais de idade, no município de Rio Grande-RS, ao sul do Brasil. Material e método: Estudo transversal de base populacional. Foram entrevistados, no domicílio, 1.099 indivíduos, por meio de um questionário com questões fechadas. Foram obtidas informações demográficas, socioeconômicas e relativas a hábitos e comportamentos de saúde geral e bucal. O relato de dor dentária nos seis meses anteriores ao inquérito foi o desfecho do estudo. As análises foram baseadas em regressão de Poisson. Resultado: A prevalência de dor dentária foi de 18,0% (IC95% 15,6; 20,4). Ao se analisar por faixa etária, a prevalência de dor dentária foi de 23,9% (IC95% 20,3; 27,4), 14,0% (IC95% 10,6; 17,5) e 10,4% (IC95% 5,8; 15,0), considerando a população adulta de 20 a 39 anos e de 40 a 59 anos, e a população idosa, acima de 60 anos, respectivamente. Maiores prevalências de dor origem dentária foram em indivíduos solteiros (RP=1,50; IC95% 1,11; 2,03), com menor escolaridade (menos de oito anos de estudo) (RP=1,62; IC95% 1,16; 2,27) e com o hábito de ranger os dentes (RP=1,67; IC95% 1,18; 2,38). Já os idosos apresentaram menores prevalências de dor origem dentária, quando comparados aos indivíduos adultos (RP=0,50; IC95% 0,32; 0,80). Conclusão: Maior atenção deve ser dada aos solteiros, menos escolarizados, que rangem os dentes, e aos adultos jovens.

Introduction: Dental pain, or toothache, is defined as pain of orofacial origin, which occurs as a consequence of problems that affect teeth and support structures. Objective: The objective of the present study was to analyze the factors associated with dental pain in individuals aged 18 years or older in the city of Rio Grande, RS, in the south of Brazil. Material and method: Cross-sectional population-based study. 1,099 individuals were interviewed at home using a questionnaire with closed questions. Demographic, socioeconomic, general and oral health habits and behaviors were obtained. The report of dental pain in the 6 months prior to the survey was the study's outcome. The analyzes were based on Poisson regression. Result: The prevalence of dental pain was 18.0% (95% CI 15.6; 20.4). When analyzing by age group, the prevalence of dental pain was 23.9% (95% CI 20.3; 27.4), 14.0% (95% CI 10.6; 17.5) and 10.4% (95% CI 5.8; 15.0), considering the adult population aged 20 to 39 years old, 40 to 59 years old and elderly, respectively. The highest prevalence of dental pain was for single individuals (PR = 1.50; 95% CI 1.11; 2.03), with less education (less than 8 years of study) (PR = 1.62; 95% CI 1.16; 2.27) and with the habit of grinding the teeth (PR = 1.67; 95% CI 1.18; 2.38). The elderly, on the other hand, had lower prevalence of dental pain when compared to adult individuals (PR = 0.50; 95% CI 0.32; 0.80). Conclusion: Greater attention should be given to single, less educated, who grind their teeth and young adults.

Regular dental care in preschoolers in rural Southern Brazil / Atendimento odontológico regular em pré-escolares da área rural do Sul do Brasil

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To evaluate if factors related to the mother's previous guidance on her children's dental health and the school attendance of children influence the regular dental care of preschoolers living in the rural area of a municipality in Southern Brazil. METHODS A population-based study was conducted with 264 children under five years of age and their mothers. Socioeconomic and behavioral data were collected using a questionnaire, and the children were subjected to dental health tests. The outcome was the regular use of dental services. The main exposure variables were children's care in daycare centers or schools and maternal guidance on the child's dental health. Poisson regression analysis with robust variance adjustment was used to estimate prevalence ratios, considering a 95% confidence interval. RESULTS The prevalence of regular use was 11.4% (95%CI 7.5-15.2). In the adjusted analysis, the regular use of services was associated with the child attending day care center/school (PR = 2.44; 95%CI 1.38-4.34), and the mother received dental health guidance (PR = 4.13; 95%CI 1.77-9.61), even with control for socioeconomic, maternal and child variables. CONCLUSION When mothers receive previous information on child dental health care and children attend schools or daycare centers, the likelihood of regular dental appointments in preschoolers living in rural locations increases.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Avaliar se fatores relacionados à orientação prévia da mãe sobre saúde bucal dos seus filhos e a frequência escolar das crianças influenciam o atendimento odontológico regular de pré-escolares moradores da área rural de um município do Sul do Brasil. MÉTODOS Um estudo de base populacional foi conduzido com 264 crianças menores de cinco anos e suas mães. Dados socioeconômicos e comportamentais foram coletados por meio de questionário e as crianças foram submetidas a exames de saúde bucal. O desfecho foi o uso regular de serviços odontológicos. As variáveis de exposição principais foram o atendimento infantil em creches ou escolas e orientação materna sobre a saúde bucal da criança. A análise de regressão de Poisson com ajuste robusto de variância foi utilizada para estimar as razões de prevalência e intervalos de confiança de 95%. RESULTADOS A prevalência de uso regular foi 11,4% (IC95% 7,5-15,2). Na análise ajustada o uso regular de serviços foi associado à criança frequentar creche/escola (RP = 2,44; IC95% 1,38-4,34) e a mãe ter recebido orientação de saúde bucal (RP = 4,13; IC95% 1,77-9,61), mesmo com controle para variáveis socioeconômicas, maternas e da criança. CONCLUSÃO Quando as mães recebem informações prévias sobre os cuidados com a saúde bucal infantil e as crianças frequentam escolas ou creches, aumenta a probabilidade de consultas odontológicas regulares em pré-escolares residentes em localidades rurais.

[Is oral health associated with the presence of depressive symptoms among the elderly?] / A Saúde bucal está associada à presença de sintomas depressivos em idosos?

The scope of this study was to describe the prevalence of depressive symptoms measured by the Geriatric Depression Scale-EDG - 15 and test the association of oral health variables and depressive symptoms in a population of the elderly linked to eleven Family Health Units in the south of Brazil. It involved a cross-sectional study with 439 elderly individuals. A standardized questionnaire was used to obtain socio-economic and oral health variables of the study. The clinical variables of oral health were obtained by a qualified dentist. The symptoms of depression, which was the scope of the study, were obtained by the Geriatric Depression Scale-EDG -15. The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 18.3% (CI95% 14.6-21.8). Analyzing the exposure variables and depressive symptoms through adjusted Poisson regression analysis, individuals with 1 to 9 teeth (PR = 1.68; CI95% 1.06-2.64, p = 0.012), with a perception of dry mouth (PR = 2.23; CI95% 1.52-3.28, p < 0.001) and perception of pain in the mouth (PR = 2.11; CI95% 1.10-4.07, p = 0.036) have a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms. The study identified a significant prevalence of depressive symptoms and that oral health variables are associated with the presence of depressive symptoms in the elderly population.

O objetivo do estudo foi descrever a prevalência de sintomas depressivos medidos por meio da Escala de Depressão Geriátrica­EDG - 15 e testar a associação de variáveis de saúde bucal com sintomas depressivos em uma população de idosos vinculados a onze unidades de saúde da família do Sul do Brasil. Estudo transversal com 439 idosos. Foi utilizado questionário padronizado para a obtenção das variáveis socioeconômicas e de saúde bucal. As variáveis clínicas de saúde bucal foram obtidas por um dentista treinado. Os sintomas depressivos desfecho do estudo foram obtidos por meio da Escala de Depressão Geriátrica­EDG - 15. A prevalência dos sintomas depressivos foi de 18,3% (IC95% 14,6-21,8). Analisando as variáveis de exposição e os sintomas depressivos, por meio da análise regressão de Poisson ajustada, os indivíduos com 1 a 9 dentes (RP = 1,68; IC95%1,06-2,64, p = 0,012), com percepção de boca seca (RP = 2,23; IC95%1,52-3,28, p < 0,001) e de dor na boca (RP = 2,11; IC95% 1,10-4,07, p = 0,036) tiveram maiores prevalências de sintomas depressivos. O estudo identificou uma prevalência importante de sintomas depressivos e que as variáveis de saúde bucal estão associadas à presença dos mesmos na população idosa.

A Saúde bucal está associada à presença de sintomas depressivos em idosos? / Is oral health associated with the presence of depressive symptoms among the elderly?

Resumo O objetivo do estudo foi descrever a prevalência de sintomas depressivos medidos por meio da Escala de Depressão Geriátrica-EDG - 15 e testar a associação de variáveis de saúde bucal com sintomas depressivos em uma população de idosos vinculados a onze unidades de saúde da família do Sul do Brasil. Estudo transversal com 439 idosos. Foi utilizado questionário padronizado para a obtenção das variáveis socioeconômicas e de saúde bucal. As variáveis clínicas de saúde bucal foram obtidas por um dentista treinado. Os sintomas depressivos desfecho do estudo foram obtidos por meio da Escala de Depressão Geriátrica-EDG - 15. A prevalência dos sintomas depressivos foi de 18,3% (IC95% 14,6-21,8). Analisando as variáveis de exposição e os sintomas depressivos, por meio da análise regressão de Poisson ajustada, os indivíduos com 1 a 9 dentes (RP = 1,68; IC95%1,06-2,64, p = 0,012), com percepção de boca seca (RP = 2,23; IC95%1,52-3,28, p < 0,001) e de dor na boca (RP = 2,11; IC95% 1,10-4,07, p = 0,036) tiveram maiores prevalências de sintomas depressivos. O estudo identificou uma prevalência importante de sintomas depressivos e que as variáveis de saúde bucal estão associadas à presença dos mesmos na população idosa.

Abstract The scope of this study was to describe the prevalence of depressive symptoms measured by the Geriatric Depression Scale-EDG - 15 and test the association of oral health variables and depressive symptoms in a population of the elderly linked to eleven Family Health Units in the south of Brazil. It involved a cross-sectional study with 439 elderly individuals. A standardized questionnaire was used to obtain socio-economic and oral health variables of the study. The clinical variables of oral health were obtained by a qualified dentist. The symptoms of depression, which was the scope of the study, were obtained by the Geriatric Depression Scale-EDG −15. The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 18.3% (CI95% 14.6-21.8). Analyzing the exposure variables and depressive symptoms through adjusted Poisson regression analysis, individuals with 1 to 9 teeth (PR = 1.68; CI95% 1.06-2.64, p = 0.012), with a perception of dry mouth (PR = 2.23; CI95% 1.52-3.28, p < 0.001) and perception of pain in the mouth (PR = 2.11; CI95% 1.10-4.07, p = 0.036) have a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms. The study identified a significant prevalence of depressive symptoms and that oral health variables are associated with the presence of depressive symptoms in the elderly population.