Percepção dos agentes comunitários de saúde quanto aos cuidados em saúde bucal da gestante e do bebê

Abstract

Objectives: to assess the perception of the Community Health Workers (CHW) on care in oral health, as well as to assess their knowledge on topics related to the oral health of the pregnant woman and the baby.

Methods: the seven CHW allocated to the Cafesópolis Family Health Unit, in the city of Recife/PE, participated in the study. The data were collected through a questionnaire composed of questions related to sociodemographic factors and professional profile of the CHW, oral health training, development of activities and general and specific knowledge on oral health of pregnant women and baby.

Results: Most CHW had completed high school or college. 86% reported having already performed oral health activities, and 100% already provided guidance to pregnant women and caregivers. 43% of the ACS affirmed that pregnant women can not undergo anesthetic procedures, as much as 86% stated that pregnant women should not undergo radiographic examinations. Additionally, 14% believe that parafunctional habits can stimulate the development of the baby.

Conclusions: The CHW perceive that oral healthactivities are also their attributions, but there are fragility points related to this theme. As the myths surrounding this area of Dentistry are still quite perpetuated, interventions in permanent education of the CHW should be carried out.