Educators' perception of oral health in children's schools in Brazil

Abstract

This study aimed to explore educators' perceptions regarding oral health promotion and the application of Atraumatic Restorative Treatment in the school environment. It is an exploratory descriptive observational study with a qualitative approach. The sample consisted of 18 educators from an Early Childhood Education Center. For data collection, a form was used with open and closed questions about oral health care for children: recreational and educational activities, supervised brushing and Atraumatic Restorative Treatment. Data were analyzed by descriptive analysis and by the Discourse of the Collective Subject. About 60% of educators considered caries a disease, 50% having observed toothache in children in the school environment. The educators considered the educational/preventive activities and the use of Atraumatic Restorative Treatment beneficial to the children. They reported relevance in oral health prevention and promotion actions carried out in the school environment, observing the generation of autonomy and empowerment in children. They also cited a favorable opinion on the use of Atraumatic Restorative Treatment.