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Early childhood caries (ECC) is a global problem, disproportionately affecting disadvantaged populations. The aim of this study was to evaluate systematically the available scientific evidence on the effectiveness of methods for ECC prevention. Six electronic databases were searched. Two independent reviewers selected the publications and analysed the quality of the included systematic reviews. Thirteen studies were included. Overall, eight reviews were classified with methodological quality critically low using the AMSTAR 2, whereas five reviews achieved a high risk of bias using the ROBIS tool. The methods identified that were positively related to the prevention of ECC were as follows: preventive dental programmes for pregnant women; advice on diet and feeding; prenatal oral health care; integration of maternal and children's oral health promotion into nursing practice; maternal oral health programmes undertaken by non-dental health professionals; dental health education in combination with the use of fluoride for children; early preventive dental visits; and the use of fluoride varnish and toothpastes with more than 1000 ppm of fluoride. The currently available evidence supporting the effectiveness of methods for prevention of ECC, although suggesting some methods of greater potential, is still lacking due to the methodological quality of the systematic reviews and the included primary studies.

The aim of this study was to perform a cross-cultural adaptation of the Brazilian version of the Dental Neglect Scale (DNS). The process included (i) Translation; ii) Synthesis; iii) Back translation; (iv) Critical analysis by a committee of experts; (v) Pilot studies (n1=30 + n2=30); and (6) Evaluation and refinement of the instrument. The validated DNS presented a Content Validity Index (CVI) equal to 1.0 for the total score, as well as for each item. In the pilot studies, a minimum agreement level of 80% in understanding was achieved. DNS was properly adapted for Brazilian Portuguese, and it needs further study in a representative sample for reliability and construct validity assessment.

It was investigated the perception of service users in relation to the professional practice of dentists, based on gender differences. The Primary Care Assessment Tool (PCATool) was applied to 900 users of the Public Service in Curitiba, PR, Brazil. Sixty clinics were selected using random sampling, divided between conventional Primary Health Care (PHC) Units and PHC with Family Health System Units. The attributes of PHC that compound the PCATool were analyzed. A question was added about user preference regarding the gender of the dental professional, thus generating four dyads derived from user gender/dentist gender (FF, FM, MM, MF). The attributes were linked to the dyads by applying the independent sample t test. Using logistic regression, the dyads were linked to 23 factors relating to scaled-up care in PHC. Many users showed a clear preference for being attended by female dentists. Users who prefer to be cared for by women tend to better evaluate PHC on issues related to “active listening”, while those who prefer to be cared for by male dentists highlight the attributes of “care integration” and “community guidance”. In other factors and attributes studied, there is no difference between the care given by men or women, regardless the unit.

Global health faces a broad spectrum of old and new challenges. Besides epidemiological problems, political conflicts, economic crisis and austerity policies are jeopardizing progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC), affecting the most vulnerable populations. During the 22nd International Union for Health Promotion and Education (IUHPE) World Conference on Health Promotion held in Curitiba, Brazil, in 2016, challenges and threats for global health, in addition to a wide range of innovative experiences in health promotion, were discussed with participants from 65 countries. At the end of the conference, a public statement was approved claiming for Democracy and Human Rights in all countries around the world as essential conditions for the promotion of health and equity. In this paper, we explore challenges, threats and innovations in global health promotion. We use scientific literature, analysis of the current situation of the Brazilian health system, and material presented during the 22nd IUHPE World Conference. Also, we discuss strategies to strengthen health systems, policies and practices through the approach of STI and illustrative local experiences presented at the congress mentioned above, including examples developed in the city of Curitiba. We conclude that STI is crucial to support strengthening local health systems, design effective intersectoral public policies, scaling up innovative initiates, and skilling staff in addressing the contemporary challenges. Finally, the Declaration of the 22nd World Conference on Health Promotion of the IUHPE is a fundamental policy statement based on the prioritization of democracy and human rights as essential conditions for the promotion of health and equity.

INTRODUCTION In Brazil, the undergraduate dental education still remains fragmented and dissociated from its social context, with emphasis on the individualistic and private aspects of dental health. This study aimed to analyze the training and development of university professors of dentistry in stricto sensu postgraduate programs in Brazil. MATERIALS AND METHODS Delphi electronic methodology was used within a qualitative-quantitative design to gather data from a panel of 58 experts. Discussions representing the analytic axis focused on: (i) the evaluative processes of higher education, in particular stricto sensu postgraduate programs, and their influence on academic activities in undergraduate dentistry courses and (ii) policies for training and developing university professors. RESULTS Of the experts, 30 participated in the first round, 24 in the second, and 19 in the third. They considered the training of university professors in dentistry to be highly specialized and technologically focused and indicated the review of political-pedagogic aspects of the educational sphere, as well as the social, economic, cultural, epidemiologic, and professional aspects of training and preparation prescribed by the National Curricular Guides for graduate courses in dentistry. An adequate process of evaluating the official organs and regulators of postgraduate stricto sensu programs, as well the programs themselves, should be implemented. CONCLUSION The experts stated that changes to the university teaching system are necessary, even in the field of dentistry. Mechanisms for evaluating areas and professors were inadequate, and the training was overly specialized and not consistent with the social reality of the country.

This study explores associated factors and perceptions of oral health among crack users recruited in open drug scenes in Brazil. A mixed methods approach was used. The quantitative component analysed findings from a large (

BACKGROUND The Neck Circumference (NC) is an anthropometric measure to evaluate obesity. The FINDRISC predicts the risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus. Our aims were to identify the mean value of NC in individuals with higher (≥15 points) and lower FINDRISC and to establish cutoff values that indicate individuals with higher FINDRISC. METHODS It is a population-based, cross-sectional study representative of the city of Curitiba, Brazil. We studied individuals (>18 years), without diabetes mellitus, between August 2013 and August 2014. We evaluated anthropometric parameters, glycaemia, socioeconomic situation, chronic conditions, and their risk factors. In a sex-specific analysis, data are presented as mean and standard deviation. We performed Pearson's and Spearman's correlation between NC and the waist circumference, body mass index and FINDRISC. Receiver Operating Characteristic curves were estimated for NC and higher FINDRISC. Logistic regression models were built to analyze the association between higher FINDRISC and 1-SD increase in NC. RESULTS We studied 950 individuals (621 women) with a mean age of 47.4 ± 17.6 years and body mass index of 26.2 ± 5.6 kg/m2. The mean NCs were 34.1 ± 3.1 cm in women and 38.2 ± 3.5 cm in men. Mean NC was lower in women (33.7 ± 2.9 cm vs. 35.8 ± 3.2 cm) and men (37.7 ± 3.4 cm vs. 41 ± 3.6 cm) with lower FINDRISC (p

Aim This study aimed to investigate the associations between human development and the demographic ratio of dentists with the prevalence of dental caries at 12 years of age in large Brazilian cities. Materials and methods Data were collected from 27 state capitals, Secondary databases were used: the municipal human development index (MDHI); the ratio of dentists qualified to exercise their profession according to the number of inhabitants; and the decayed, missing or filled teeth index (DMFT). Pearson correlation coefficient analysis and multiple logarithmic regression analysis were performed. Results The MDHI showed a strong correlation with DMFT and explained 48.1% of the variation in the cities. The ratio of dentists to the number of inhabitants displayed an insignificant, weak correlation with the variations in the DMFT. Conclusion Social factors strongly influence the oral health/ disease process in Brazilian capitals, thus actions are needed for the promotion of health at more distal, or structural levels that modify the environment, thus enabling healthier choices for individuals. These results challenge traditional beliefs that only the ratio of professional dentists to inhabitants and the provision of dental services have beneficial effects on the prevention and control of oral health problems. Clinical significance The prevalence of dental caries is strongly correlated with social factors, as the MDHI.

Introduction With the significant increase of women in dentistry, the profile of the dental professional has been altered.Aim To investigate the discourses of future dental surgeons, of both genders, from public and private universities of Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil, to detect whether gender profile differences can influence training and intended future practice.Methods The problem is approached using a qualitative design, with the strategy of collective interviews in focus groups followed by a discourse analysis.Results Women choose dentistry mainly because they like working with people and want to have formal employment in the future. Male discourses show a desire for professional status, worthy business prospects, and the flexibility of being self-employed. The analysis of the university education process revealed that men desire learning that is more technical, besides knowledge on business management, whereas women still complain of current prejudices in the personal relationships that exist with teaching staff and colleagues.Conclusion The teaching process, based on the technique-driven biomedical model, has not reached an ideal standard for the female gender in terms of training, which would be a model based on empathy and good relationships with human beings.

Imprisoned women represent a growing population worldwide with important health needs. In this study, we aimed to analyze the impact of oral health conditions on the quality of life of female inmates in a maximum security correctional facility. Participants were examined and answered the OHIP-14 questionnaire. A total of 305 inmates were included in the study. Prevalence of untreated caries was 84%. Worse quality of life was associated with dental caries, dental pain, deep periodontal pocket, prosthetic use, and age. Sociodental indicators should be incorporated into healthcare and health policies in order to promote wellbeing among this vulnerable population.

Indexado en Scopus This Statement represents the voice of participants in the 22nd IUHPE World Conference on Health Promotion, held in Curitiba, Brazil, in May 2016. The Brazilian political context at that time greatly influenced the drafting of the Curitiba Statement, which was considered by many participants as an opportunity to categorically express that Brazilian democracy was threatened, as well as the danger of fiscal austerity implemented by many governments of the world. The conference organizers also perceived the launching of this Statement as an opportunity to influence the WHO Shanghai Declaration, since it very strongly stated the influence of commercial interests and corporate practices of the market that are harmful to health. The Curitiba Statement gathers 120 suggestions made by conference participants and focuses on how strengthening health promotion and equity can improve people’s lives. The 21 recommendations were summarized and resulted in appeals to International Organizations, all levels of Governments, Health Sector, Citizens, Health Professionals and Researchers. Unlike a declaration from government summit that are restricted by governments negotiations from different ideological spectrum, the Curitiba Statement was developed in a free environment to foster professional activism. We reaffirm that the objectives of Health Promotion in the Sustainable Development will only be fully achieved by incorporating these four fundamental principles: democracy, social justice, social mobilization and equity. Health Promotion in the twenty-first century needs new narratives and inputs from professional associations, which can be more assertive and to influencing the official declarations of government

The organization of health systems in Health Care Networks (HCN) presents itself as a strategy to overcome the fragmentation of maternal and child health actions and services and to qualify care management. The objective of this study was to validate the Instrument for Evaluation of Maternal and Child Health Care Networks (IARAMI), adapted from the Evaluation Tool of Health Care Networks. The validation process comprised face and construct validation. The methodology used for face validation included the conceptual and semantic adaptation of the instrument and analysis by a panel of experts, through the modified consensus e-Delphi technique. After face validation, IARAMI was applied in a sample of 99 health managers of municipalities in the state of Paraná. The construct validation was conducted through the internal consistency analysis using Cronbach's alpha coefficient and factorial analysis. The factorial analysis technique was applied to each of the dimensions of the instrument, enabling the analysis of communalities. The results showed that IARAMI presented reliability and validity, proving to be a tool that can help managers and health workers in the planning, management, and evaluation of the degree of integration of the maternal and child care network.A organização dos sistemas de saúde em redes de atenção à saúde (RAS) se apresenta como uma estratégia para superar a fragmentação das ações e serviços de saúde materno-infantil e qualificar a gestão do cuidado. O objetivo deste estudo foi validar o Instrumento de Avaliação de Redes de Atenção Materno-infantil (IARAMI), adaptado a partir do Instrumento de Avaliação de Redes de Atenção à Saúde. O processo de validação compreendeu a validação de face e construto. A metodologia utilizada para a validação de face incluiu a adaptação conceitual e semântica do instrumento e a análise por um painel de especialistas, por meio da técnica e-Delphi de consenso modificada. Após sua validação de face, o IARAMI foi aplicado em uma amostra de gestores de 99 municípios do estado do Paraná. A validação de construto foi conduzida por análise de consistência interna por meio do coeficiente alfa de Cronbach e de análise fatorial. A técnica de análise fatorial foi aplicada para cada uma das dimensões do instrumento, permitindo a análise de comunalidades. Os resultados evidenciaram que o IARAMI apresentou confiabilidade e validade, demonstrando ser uma ferramenta que pode auxiliar gestores e trabalhadores da saúde no planejamento, na gestão e na avaliação do grau de integração da rede de atenção à saúde materno-infantil.

ObjectivesTo compare two different models of public oral health in primary care services, a so-called family health strategy (FHS), as opposed to non-FHS services designated as ‘conventional’ healthcare (CHC), regarding the presence and extent of the attributes of ‘good’ primary healthcare (PHC). The null hypothesis of this study is that the attributes do not differ between the FHS and CHC.DesignCross-sectional.SettingPublic PHC services in Curitiba, the state capital of Paraná.ParticipantsPHC users of the public oral health network (n=900) and dentists active in this municipal network (n=203).Primary and secondary outcome measuresThe Primary Care Assessment Tool (PCATool)-Dentists and PCATool-Users were used to analyse the primary outcomes (‘essential’ attributes) and secondary outcomes (‘derived’ attributes) in the PHC.ResultsOverall, the primary care services in oral health were well evaluated, both by users and by dentists, with mean scores ascribed to PHC attributes mostly above the cut-off point (6.6). The exception for users were affiliation (6.36; 95% CI 6.11 to 6.60) and accessibility (5.83; 95% CI 5.78 to 5.89); and for dentists the accessibility (5.80; 95% CI 5.63 to 5.96). When comparing FHS and CHC, there was a superiority of the FHS model, which reached a general mean score of 7.53 (95% CI 7.48 to 7.58) among users and 7.56 (95% CI 7.45 to 7.67) among dentists; on the other hand, the CHC general mean score was of 6.61 (95% CI 6.49 to 6.73) and 6.68 (95% CI 6.56 to 6.80) respectively for users and dentists.ConclusionsThe results reveal a reasonable level of attainment of PHC attributes in the services investigated. Nevertheless, public health managers should make efforts to reduce the difficulties faced by users in accessing dental care. The more positive results achieved by FHS services indicate that the provision of oral healthcare under this strategy should be expanded.

Objective: To explore high-risk behaviors and experiences with traffic law among night drivers in Curitiba, Brazil. Method: Data from 398 drivers on sociodemographic parameters, high-risk behaviors, experiences with traffic law, and traffic law violations were collected through interviews conducted at sobriety checkpoints. Exploratory-descriptive and analytical statistics were used. Results: The mean age of the participants was 32.6±11.2 years (range, 18 to 75 years). Half of the drivers reported having driven after drinking in the last year, predominantly single men aged 18 to 29 years who drive cars and drink alcohol frequently. Only 55% of the drivers who had driven after drinking in the last year self-reported some concern about being detected in a police operation. Conclusions: A significant association was found between sociodemographic variables and behavior, which can help tailor public interventions to a specific group of drivers: young men who exhibit high-risk behaviors in traffic, such as driving after drinking alcohol, some of whom report heavy alcohol consumption. This group represents a challenge for educational and enforcement interventions, particularly because they admit to violating current laws and have a low perception of punishment due to the low risk of being detected by the police.

Objective To present a genetic and protein interaction analysis associated with dental caries. Material and Methods The first step was to conduct a systematic literature review (SLR) through an electronic database search. Case-controls that reported associations between genes and dental caries were the main type of study design used as inclusion criteria, retrieved from the PubMed and the Virtual Health Library databases, comprising the chronological range from 1982 to 2017. The SLR was guided by PRISMA protocol and the methodological quality of the studies was established through Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). In the second step, the String Protein Interaction (SPI) approach was used to analyze protein interaction (by esyN software) and also the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) to check biological pathways associated with dental caries genes. Results A total of 51 articles were included to perform this SLR, describing a number of 27 genes associated with dental caries development. At the genetic level, 23 genes have at least one other gene with which they interact. The genes TUFT1, VDR, TFIP11, LTF, HLA-DRB1, MMP2, MMP3 and MUC5B were shown to be connected in interactive networks by at least 10 other genes. Conclusion It is essential to apprehend the multifactorial pattern of inheritance in human disease. This study presents pathways which may be directly correlated with several dental caries phenotype and this contributes to a better understanding of this disease, opening up a wider range of biotechnology options for its effective control in the future.

The combination of drinking and driving is globally understood as a risk factor for road traffic crashes and disastrous outcomes such as injury and disability or death. However, the magnitude of the problem may not always be known in many countries, particularly where there are legislative loopholes. In Brazil, until December 2012, verification by breathalyzer of drinking and driving was dependent on drivers' acceptance of the tests after being stopped by the police.To describe the epidemiological profile of drinking and driving behaviors of a sample of drivers from Curitiba, Brazil, and explore the sociodemographic characteristics of those interviewed at police sobriety checkpoints.Drivers were selected and interviewed at police checkpoints on public roads in Curitiba. The local police, after informed consent, applied breathalyzer tests to check the drivers' blood alcohol content and the results were compared with data previously collected through interviews containing self-reports of drinking and driving. Data were collected between March and November 2012.Of the 511 drivers asked to participate in the study, 398 (77.9%) agreed to give a roadside interview. Most respondents were single men between the ages of 18 and 29 years, with 8.3% of interviewed drivers self-reporting alcohol consumption in the last 6 h before driving. On the other hand, only 46.2% of the whole sample accepted the breathalyzer testing. Among those breathalyzed by the police, 2.7% tested positive for alcohol.This study, conducted on public roads in Curitiba, shows a noticeable proportion of drivers voluntarily self-reporting drinking and driving. However, a smaller percentage was confirmed to have positive blood alcohol content, likely due to the high breathalyzer refusal rate.

Identify and analyze cases of child and adolescent abuse and neglect in Curitiba, Brazil. This is an exploratory descriptive study that takes a quantitative approach. Secondary data from the reporting registry of the Network for the Protection of Children and Adolescents at Risk for Violence in Curitiba, Brazil, dating from 2004 to 2009, were analyzed. Variables included the victims' sociodemographic profile, place of notification, type, nature and severity of abuse, information about the author of the aggression or abuse, and physical lesions. The frequency distribution and associations between the variables were analyzed using the Chi-square test at a 5% significance level. The analysis of 19,316 records showed that domestic violence, abuse and neglect directed against children and adolescents were the most frequently recorded situation, with 17,082 cases (88.4%) distributed in the following manner: neglect, with 9742 reports (57.0%); physical violence, with 1341 reports (7.9%); sexual violence, with 796 reports (4.7%); psychological violence, with 574 reports (3.4%); and abandonment, with 190 reports (1.1%). Of the total, 43.9% were considered severe cases. The most affected age group was between 5 and 14 years of age, with balance between genders. In the majority of cases, the mother was registered as the author of the abuse or neglect. Physical sequelae (20.2%) mostly affected the head and upper and lower limbs, with consequent lesions manifesting as bruises, cuts, and fractures. An increase in the visibility of domestic violence and children and adolescents abuse and neglect has been observed in the city during the last few years, suggesting the effectiveness of the reporting strategies proposed by the protection network. It is important to increase social security and public welfare policies to prevent child and adolescent abuse and neglect, focusing on family support.

The global health scenario shows an epidemic of non-communicable diseases that lead to long-term chronic conditions, some of which are incurable. Many infectious diseases, owing to their development and length, also generate chronic conditions. Similarly, non-morbid states, such as pregnancy, and some life cycles such as adolescence and ageing, follow the same logic. Among all these chronic conditions there is a significant interrelationship with oral health, both in parallel events and common risk factors. This article presents cross-sectional qualitative research into World Health Organisation recommended health policies to address chronic conditions. Several documents published by the organisation were analysed to verify the presence of references to oral health in relation to chronic conditions, particularly cardiovascular diseases and diabetes as these most frequently have oral manifestations. The analysis showed no significant references to oral health or its indicators within the published texts. The study recognises the value of the work developed by the World Health Organisation, as well as its worldwide leadership role in the development of health policies for chronic conditions. This article proposes a coalition of dentistry organisations that could, in a more forceful and collective way, advocate for a greater presence of oral health in drafting policies addressing chronic conditions.

This article presents an integrative literature review that analyses the advances and challenges in oral health care of the Brazilian primary health care system, based on a political agenda that envisages re-organising the unified health system (SistemaÚnico de Saúde – SUS). It is presumed that the actions suggested by the Alma-Ata Conference of 1978 are still up-to-date and relevant when adapted to the situation in Brazil. Several studies and policies are reviewed, including works demonstrating the importance of primary care as an organising platform in an integrated health-care network, Brazil’s strategy for reorganising the primary care network known as the Family Health Strategy, and the National Oral Health Policy. This review discusses results obtained over the last twenty years, with special attention paid to changes in oral health-care practices, as well as the funding of action programmes and assistance cover. The conclusion is that oral healthcare in the Brazilian primary health care system has advanced over the past decades; however, serious obstacles have been experienced, especially with regard to the guarantee of universal access to services and funding. The continuous efforts of public managers and society should focus on the goal of achieving universal coverage for all Brazilians.

There has been a marked increase of women in dentistry in Brazil and in many countries around the world. The behavioral mechanisms behind the choice of career differ between men and women, and the inclination to care for others is thought by some to be more present in women than it is in men. This article discusses the reasons that lead women to choose dentistry as a profession in Brazil and the impact of feminization on the current and future profile of the profession, based on the ethics of care. The authors' review of the relevant literature published between 2000 and 2011, primarily in Brazil, suggests that whereas men have tended to choose dentistry as a good business opportunity, women have tended to base their decision on relations with other people and the flexibility of practicing the profession. Many women dentists have been found to decide to work fewer hours, report more interruptions in their activities, and have less preference to work in private practice than men dentists. In the view of service users and dental auxiliaries in Brazil, women dentists invest more time in their patients and communicate in a more pleasant, sensitive, and friendly manner. The conclusion suggests that characteristics often associated with women can affect the dental profession in Brazil by introducing greater concern with the promotion of health and other people's well-being in contrast to traditional dentistry based on curative procedures.

The purpose of this study was to analyze social determinants of health through the relationship between Sustainable Development and child health outcomes. The population studied lives in 37 municipalities of the Curitiba mesoregion, in the State of Parana, Brazil. It is a cross-cutting ecological study. In the 1st phase of the study, 16 contextual indicators were obtained from the 2010 demographic census performed by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics. Principal Components Factor Analysis was undertaken to demonstrate possible correlations between social determinants of health, resulting in Sustainable Development indices for the places where the children live. In the 2nd phase the mortality rate in children aged under 5 was obtained from the Ministry of Health database. Pearson's correlation demonstrated statistically significant, moderate and negative association between the mortality rate in children aged under 5 (2001-2010) and the Sustainable Development Index (r = -0.62, p

To evaluate the potential effectiveness of strategies of Oral Health Promotion (OHP), which are carried out by teams in primary health care (PHC) in Brazilian capitals and regions.A sample of 1,848 dentists were interviewed (1,819 valid responses) working in the PHC of 26 capitals and the Federal District. The Effectiveness of the Assessment Tool for the Promotion of Oral Health Strategies was used. It is composed of 23 indicators grouped into three dimensions: oral health, health public policies, and human and social development. The answers were arranged in a Likert scale (1-5), and the final score obtained for each sample unit can range from 23 to 115. Higher score values indicate greater potential for the strategy to promote oral health.Statistically significant differences were identified among the analyzed geopopulation units considering the study object. The Southeast and South regions had better performance for the OHP strategies in comparison to the other regions of Brazil (p ≤ 0.01).The OHP strategies identified in the study were heterogeneous, with better results favoring the Southeast regions, with disadvantages for people living in capitals from the Central-North-Northeast of Brazil. Efforts should be undertaken aiming to qualify the PHC teams, especially for those in disadvantageous regions. Therefore, an alignment of PSB strategies to the principles and values of health promotion is required, addressed to the social health determinants (SHDs) and in order to fight the inequalities in oral health.

The purpose of this study was to build epidemiological indicators on the experience of dental trauma in 12-year-old schoolchildren in the city of Curitiba, Brazil, exploring its geographical and population distributions. A geographic information system (GIS) was used, built by means of ArcView GIS 3.2 software and geographical databases of streets and districts defined within the boundaries of the city of Curitiba, provided by Curitiba's Institute of Research and Public Planning (IPPUC). The database used in the study was compiled based on an epidemiological survey undertaken in 1998 on a sample of 2126 schoolchildren 12 years old, residing in outlying urban suburbs distributed over 29 micro-areas in the city of Curitiba. The cases selected for this study were those with a history of dental trauma, thereby comprising a subsample of 327 schoolchildren. The spatial location of the schoolchildren's homes enabled the events to be visualized on a cartographic basis. The variables of gender, aetiology of the trauma and areas of substandard living conditions were included in the analysis and construction of thematic maps, thus making possible a descriptive analysis of the spatial distribution of dental trauma in the city. Intra-urban differentials were identified in the prevalence of dental trauma in 12-year-old schoolchildren in Curitiba. A greater concentration of occurrences was observed in the eastern region of the city, especially in areas of substandard living conditions. It was possible to conclude that socio-environmental and geophysical factors are associated with the determination of dental trauma in the city of Curitiba, pointing to the need for the development of public policies especially aimed at areas and populations at greater risk.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between the Human Development Index at city level (HDI-M) in the state of Parana´, Brazil, and the length of time of population exposure to water fluoridation (time span) with the respective mean decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMF-T) of schoolchildren in the state, looking at possible inequalities in these associations. Methods: The HDI-M of 323 cities in the state of Parana´, Brazil, was correlated to the duration of exposure to water fluoridation, calculated in number of days. Correlation between the HDI-M and the DMF-T indexes for 12-year-old children was alsoperformed. Results: Correlations were statistically significant, showing that in the cities with a better HDI-M, water fluoridation had been implemented earlier (squared coefficient correlation of 22%). The fluoridation time span accounted for around 11% of the variance in the DMF-T indexes of the cities. The correlation indicated that locations with a better HDI-M had a better DMF-T, owing to the probable mediating effect of receiving fluoridation earlier. Furthermore, the cost of water fluoridation to benefit the population that has access to this public health measure has been estimated at USD 0.15 per capita/year. Conclusions: It is possible to conclude that this low- cost measure is able to improve oral health status in general. Nevertheless, in the Brazilian areas studied, fluoridation seems to reflect existing social development inequalities, as it was first made available in more socially developed areas, thus bearing an influence on their higher DMF-T performance to date.

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between sociodemographic, socioeconomic, psychosocial, and behavioral variables and oral health as assessed using the 14-question short version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14). A cross-sectional study was performed with 1095 adult residents from 38 census tracts in the municipality of São Leopoldo, State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Responses to the OHIP-14 were dichotomized, and bivariate (Chi-square) and multivariate analysis (logistic regression and Wald's test) were performed. In the bivariate analysis, the worse effects were reported by female individuals, the elderly, those with low family income, less schooling, those reporting a lower quality of life and social support, and smokers. In the multivariate analysis the following variables maintained their statistical significance: gender (female), age (50-59 years), family income (low), quality of life (low), social support (low, moderate), and smoking (smokers). Individuals' self-perception of their oral health was related to sociodemographic, socioeconomic, psychosocial, and behavioral variables, thus confirming that emphasis should be placed on social factors when addressing oral health problems. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a associação entre as variáveis sociodemográficas, socioeconômicas, psicossociais e comportamentais e a saúde bucal por meio da versão abreviada do Perfil de Impacto em Saúde Oral, Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14). Estudo transversal que contou com 1095 adultos residentes nos 38 setores censitários do município de São Leopoldo, RS, Brasil. As respostas ao OHIP-14 foram dicotomizadas e a análise bivariada (Qui-quadrado) e multivariada (regressão logística e teste de Wald) foram realizadas. Na análise bivariada, os piores efeitos foram relatados por mulheres, indivíduos com idade mais avançada, com baixa renda familiar e menor escolaridade, por aqueles com relato de menor qualidade de vida e apoio social e por fumantes. Na análise multivariada as seguintes variáveis mantiveram significância estatística: gênero (mulheres), idade (50-59 anos), renda familiar (baixa), qualidade de vida (baixa), apoio social (baixo e moderado) e hábito de fumar (fumantes). A autopercepção individual da saúde bucal foi relacionada às variáveis pesquisadas, confirmando que deve ser dada ênfase aos fatores sociais ao se tratar de problemas de saúde bucal.

This paper is concerned with developing methods for assessing the potential impact of healthy public policies on health outcomes, particularly on dental trauma. The hypothesis is that in deprived areas of Curitiba, Brazil, there would be a lower prevalence of dental trauma in 12-year-old schoolchildren related to different degrees of implementation of healthy public policies. Fourteen socio-environmental variables gathered from 29 deprived areas were factor-analysed and three principal components (PCA) extracted: physical environment, public social policies, and social cohesion. Individual clinical data on dental trauma were collected for 2,126 children from public schools in the areas. Rank correlation indicated that the relationship between components' scores and dental trauma was statistically significant. The PCA scores explained 42% of the variance for dental trauma.

No detailed analyses have been undertaken on the effects of Health Promoting Schools on oral health status. The objective of this study was to assess whether the oral health of 12-year-old children in supportive schools, where health promoting policies had been developed, was better than that of children in non-supportive schools. A sample of 1823 12-year-old children in 33 public (government-funded) schools were selected in deprived areas of Curitiba, Brazil. Principal component analysis, multiple regression, meta-analysis and meta-regression were used in the data analysis. Schools with a comprehensive curriculum were more likely to have a higher percentage of caries-free children (beta = 6.27, p = 0.02) and fewer children with dental trauma (beta = -5.04, p = 0.02). The commitment towards health and safety at school was strongly associated with dental trauma, as 9.7% fewer children had dental trauma (p = 0.00) in schools that demonstrated a commitment towards health and safety. At the school level, mother's education and family income were independently associated with children's caries experience and dental trauma, respectively. Children in supportive schools had better oral health than those in non-supportive schools. Our results suggest that some benefit can be obtained for the improvement of the oral health of children living in deprived areas if they attend supportive schools.

The aim of this study was to identify and analyze inequities in the access to specialized services in the municipalities of the metropolitan area of Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil. This is an ecological study. In its preparatory stage, this study focused on the socioeconomic, epidemiologic, healthcare network and sectoral financing network profiles of the 26 municipalities comprising this area. Factor analysis was employed to obtain the six principal components, and a synthetic index was calculated from them, allowing municipalities to be ranked according to living conditions and health situation. Primary data was collected from 24 municipalities, regarding their capacity, directed and repressed demand of specialized healthcare services. The context analysis revealed accentuated intermunicipal inequities. The synthetic index allowed municipalities to be classified in four relatively homogeneous groups regarding living and health conditions. Municipalities located in Vale do Ribeira obtained the worse outcomes for the Living Conditions and Health Situation Synthetic Index, as well as the higher repressed demand for specialized healthcare services. The geographical distance from the capital showed to contribute to worse living and health conditions and greater difficulties in access to healthcare services. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar e analisar iniquidades intermunicipais no acesso à atenção especializada nos municípios da região metropolitana de Curitiba, Paraná. Trata-se de estudo ecológico. Na etapa preparatória deste estudo, trabalhou-se com os perfis socioeconômico, epidemiológico, da rede de cuidados à saúde e de financiamento setorial, dos 26 municípios que compõem essa região. Foi realizada análise fatorial, pela qual foram obtidos seis componentes principais, e a partir desses foi calculado um índice sintético, que permitiu ordenar os municípios segundo condição de vida e situação de saúde. Dados primários foram coletados de 24 municípios, referentes à capacidade instalada, demanda encaminhada e demanda reprimida de serviços de atenção especializada. A análise de contexto revelou acentuadas iniquidades intermunicipais e o índice sintético permitiu classificar os municípios em quatro grupos relativamente homogêneos quanto às condições de vida e situação de saúde. Os municípios localizados no Vale do Ribeira obtiveram os piores resultados para o Índice Sintético de Condições de Vida e Situação de Saúde, assim como apresentaram maior demanda reprimida para os serviços da atenção especializada. A distância geográfica do município polo demonstrou contribuir para piores condições de vida e saúde e maiores dificuldades no acesso aos serviços de saúde.

The article highlights the importance of considering the specificities of spaces/territories/ locations of individual and collective life in creating health promotion actions. It explores how this approach has conceptually consolidated respect for territoriality and territorial actions as a principle and an operational health promotion strategy. Based on the literature, the article also points to the need to envision the territory occupied as a locus to put intersetorialities into practice, giving a voice to people who live there, seek to and solve their complex problems, to existing and emerging social networks. It also presents a nationally and internationally validated strategy/method (Bamboo Method) for the development of local health promotion plans, which enables the prioritization of actions by listening to the people and to the managers.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between individual and contextual variables related to self-perception in oral health among residents in the municipality of São Leopoldo, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. The cross-sectional design involved 1,100 adults in 38 census tracts. The self-perception was evaluated using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) tool. A logistic multilevel analysis was performed. The multivariate analysis revealed that those who are of the female gender, older, with lower scores of quality of life and less social support, with poor healthy eating habits, smokers and those living in low-income census tracts presented higher odds of reporting worse oral health self-perception (OHIP-1). We concluded that individual and contextual variables are associated with oral health self-perception. This is essential information for planning health services wishing to meet the health needs of the population. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a associação entre aspectos individuais e contextuais com a autopercepção em saúde bucal em moradores do município de São Leopoldo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. É um estudo com delineamento transversal, numa amostra probabilística de 1.100 adultos em 38 setores censitários. A autopercepção foi avaliada por meio do Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14). A análise dos dados utilizou regressão logística multinível. Na análise multivariável, indivíduos do gênero feminino, com idade avançada, piores escores de qualidade de vida e de apoio social, com hábitos alimentares ruins, fumantes e residentes em setores censitários com baixa renda apresentaram maiores chances de relatar pior autopercepção em saúde bucal (OHIP-1). O estudo identificou os fatores associados à autopercepção de saúde nos níveis individual e contextual. Essa é informação imprescindível para o planejamento de serviços de saúde que pretendam atender às necessidades de saúde da população. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la asociación entre los factores individuales y contextuales de la salud oral en la percepción subjetiva de los habitantes de Sao Leopoldo, Río Grande do Sul, Brasil. Este fue un estudio transversal con una muestra aleatoria de 1.100 adultos en 38 secciones censales. La autopercepción se evaluó utilizando el Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14). El análisis de datos utilizó la regresión logística multinivel. En el análisis multivariado, los sujetos femeninos con edad avanzada, con peores calificaciones de calidad de vida y el apoyo social, malos hábitos alimenticios, tabaquismo y pertenecientes a las secciones censales de bajos ingresos eran más propensos a informar un peor estado de salud bucal autopercibida (OHIP-1). El estudio identifica los factores asociados con la salud auto-evaluada a nivel individual y sus factores contextuales. Esto es esencial para la planificación de los servicios de salud que desean satisfacer las necesidades de información sobre salud de la población.

To assess the correlation between the social determinants of oral health (SDOH) index and social indicators, indicators of oral health, and intermediary social determinants expressed by the indicators of the Government of Brazil's National Oral Health Policy.This ecological study included 5 915 adults aged 35 to 44 years from 27 Brazilian capitals. Indicators of oral health outcomes-tooth loss, restored teeth, and dental care index (DCI)-were extracted from the 2010 National Oral Health Survey. Social indicators (structural social determinants) and indicators of the National Oral Health Policy were obtained from census data and from the Ministry of Health.A moderate Pearson correlation (r) was observed between SDOH and DCI (r = 0.580), restored teeth (r = 0.545), and tooth loss (r = - 0.490). The social equity component was strongly correlated to DCI (r = 0.856), restored teeth (r = 0.822), and tooth loss (r = - 0.665). These oral health outcomes were not statistically associated with the components related to primary and secondary oral health care. The social equity component explained 44% of the variance in tooth loss, 68% of the variance in the number of restored teeth, and 73% of the variance in DCI.A significant correlation was observed between SDOH and the social equity component with oral health outcomes in adults in Brazilian capitals. Therefore, equity policies should prioritize actions focused on the SDOH, such as increased sanitation coverage and water fluoridation, and on reducing poverty and regional inequities.

To analyze the Final Report of the VIII Health Conference and the São José dos Pinhais City Health Program for 2010-2013 and investigate whether these documents addressed the themes of sustainability, governance, and equity and the interfaces between these themes--government policies, power balance, and inclusive processes/impacting results--that make up the Concept Model for Human Development and Health Promotion developed by the authors.This case study analyzed 331 proposals approved for incorporation in the City Health Program. The six thematical categories of the Concept Model were analyzed using ATLAS Ti 5.0 software. The proposals were classified according to the number of themes and interfaces of the Concept Model: full health proposals contained all six categories; partial proposals contained three categories; and incipient proposals contained one category.Of 331 proposals approved, 162 (49%) contemplated the six thematical categories and were classified as full health promotion proposals. Ninety-five (29%) contemplated three categories (partial health promotion). Of these, 38 (12%) addressed Governance, Sustainability, and Government Policies, 33 (10%) addressed Governance, Power Balance, and Equity and 24 (7%) addressed Equity, Inclusive Processes/Impact Results, and Sustainability. Finally, 74 (22%) proposals contemplated only one category and were classified as incipient: 36 (11%) addressed Governance, 27 (8%) addressed sustainability, and 11 (3%) addressed equity.Based on the fact that 49% of the proposals approved were classified as full health promotion, it is considered that the effectiveness of social control and popular participation in the construction of health policies at the local level contritute to the promotion of health in the city.

To systematically evaluate the literature to investigate associations between social, demographic, economic, psychosocial, and behavioral factors and the self-perception of oral health measured using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP).In this systematic review of the literature, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) were adapted for the performance of a qualitative metasummary, without meta-analysis. Articles about oral health and associated factors with implications for quality of life were selected, with a focus on the tool for self-rating of the oral health-disease process, the OHIP. Pubmed/National Library of Medicine (NLM) and the Virtual Health Library (Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde - BVS/BIREME) were searched. Articles published between 2001 and 2011 were included. The following Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) were employed: oral health, quality of life, sickness impact profile, and socioeconomic factors.Of 57 articles identified, 20 met the inclusion criteria. The metasummary revealed that a poor self-perception of oral health was associated with unfavorable social, economic, demographic, and psychosocial factors, as well as with undesirable habits and poor clinical oral conditions.There is consensus in the literature about the influence of the investigated factors on the self-perception of oral health and on quality of life. The OHIP is an important aid for determining oral health needs and for developing strategies to control/reduce disease and promote oral health, with a consequent positive impact on quality of life.

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of tobacco use and to describe the demographic profile of female smokers in Paraná State, Brazil. The study used a cross-sectional population-based design with cluster sampling (n = 2,153) of women 18 years or older in seven cities. Prevalence of smoking was 13.4%, ranging from 10% in Cascavel to 19% in Irati. According to multivariate analysis, city of residence, marital status, and schooling were significantly associated with tobacco use. Women in Irati (OR = 2.08; 95%CI: 1.22-3.54) were more likely to smoke than those in Cambé. Married women and widows were less likely to smoke (OR = 0.47; 95%CI: 0.30-0.73 and OR = 0.43; 95%CI: 0.22-0.87) than single women. Women living with a partner (but not married) were more likely to smoke than single women (OR = 2.49; 95%CI: 1.12-5.53), and women with university degrees were less likely to smoke than those with eight years of school or less (OR = 0.41; 95%CI: 0.22-0.87). The results confirm the need for tobacco control programs that take gender and regional differences into account.

To investigate the influence of clinical status and salivary conditions on the presence of xerostomia on adolescents with and without type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM1), and further to investigate the influence of clinical status, salivary conditions and xerostomia on oral health-related quality of life (OHQoL) of those with DM1.A cross-sectional study was performed on 102 adolescents, 51 with DM1 and 51 nondiabetics. Xerostomia was detected by asking a question about the sensation of having 'dry mouth', and Oral Health Impact Profile-14 was used to measure the impact of xerostomia on OHQoL. The clinical status was assessed by using decayed, missing or filled and Community Periodontal indices, and by evaluating oral manifestations; and the following salivary conditions were evaluated: stimulated salivary flow, pH, buffer capacity, total protein, amylase, urea, calcium, and glucose salivary concentrations. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the influence of clinical status and salivary conditions on xerostomia and the impact of xerostomia on the OHQoL of adolescents with DM1.Clinical status and salivary conditions was shown to have no influence on the presence of xerostomia. Bivariate (P = 0.00) and logistic regression (P = 0.01) analysis showed a significant association between DM1 and xerostomia. Logistic regression analysis showed association between xerostomia (P = 0.00) and OHQoL, and caries experience (P = 0.03) and OHQoL.DM1 showed to be predictive of a high prevalence of xerostomia in adolescents. Caries experience and xerostomia showed to have a negative impact on the OHQoL of adolescents with DM1.

Results-based management is a cornerstone of reform in public administration, including the health field, and has become the basis for other innovations such as the institutionalization of management contracts and the use of professional incentives. This review article aims to introduce and discuss the use of such management contracts in the public health sector. Management by results has developed means and tools that highlight the importance of shared responsibility and mutual commitment between workers and management-level directors. Thus, preset goals are negotiated among all the stakeholders and are evaluated periodically in order to grant professional incentives. It is necessary to improve the mechanisms for control and observation, to more precisely determine the healthcare and management indicators and their patterns, to train stakeholders in designing the plan, and to improve the use of professional incentives in order to effectively increase accountability vis-à-vis the desired results.

The scope of this study was to analyze the normative measures issued about the Health in the School Program in order to ascertain the contribution and participation of the health and education sectors in the creation and implementation of the Program, since its success was based upon intersectoral action between them. The technique of content analysis proposed by Bardin, associated with ATLAS TI 5.2 software was used to conduct the research. The study revealed that the participation of the health and education sectors in the Health in the School Program is not well-balanced, pointing to the predominant role of health in areas such as financing and the centralization of the adhesion and coordination process of the Intersectoral Commission on Education and Health in the School.

The evaluation of health promotion activities is a methodological and strategic challenge for establishing evidence to support health management processes. The use of adequate evaluation methods based on participatory analysis of local processes and contexts is essential to the success of interventions and policy formulation and implementation. Brazil's Policy for Oral Health Promotion and Surveillance explicitly states the need to improve evaluation strategies for oral health promotion activities conducted in the context of primary care, allowing to evaluate not only their results and impact, but also the political and social process for achieving the objectives. This article proposes to systematize the literature on the evaluation of effectiveness in health promotion strategies, define a theoretical model, and propose a matrix of descriptors, exploring the basic references for health promotion and practices with the potential to reduce situations of vulnerability in population groups, combat inequalities, and incorporate community participation in health management.

Injuries resulting from accidents and violence occupy a key place in the current epidemiological scenario. The head and face are one of the main sites of lesions from external causes, especially dental and oral injuries. This article aims to present the epidemiological profile of emergency care for dental and oral lesions from external causes. The study used data from the Surveillance System for Violence and Accidents (VIVA) for the years 2006 and 2007. There were a total of 106,075 emergency visits involving external causes, of which 939 (~1%) presented dental and oral lesions. There were a majority or large proportions of males (65.5%), children10 years (44.3%), black individuals (66%), and individuals with low schooling (45.9%). High proportions of the injuries occurred at home (48.3%) or on public byways (30%). Frequent characteristics were cuts or puncture wounds (63.3%) and lesions resulting from falls (43%), traffic accidents (19.9%), and physical assault (13%).

To identify racial inequities in oral health between groups of adults selfdeclared as white, black, or mixed in Brazil.Secondary data were obtained from the national oral health survey of the Brazilian population (SB-Brasil 2002-2003) database. Initially, a cross-sectional study was conducted to compare the following outcome variables: caries, tooth loss, pain of dental origin, and need for prostheses according to race/color in a sample of 12 811 adults of both sexes, aged 35 to 44 years. In the second stage, an ecologic study was carried out with data aggregated by Brazilian state to contextualize racial inequity in a population of 6 918 black individuals (black and mixed). For that, the oral health outcomes studied in the first stage were correlated with human development and income distribution indicators.Significant differences were observed between the race/color groups for all oral health outcomes examined (P0.01). Correlations were found between oral health outcomes and indicators related to the human development profile, average family income, and income inequality by state for the group of Brazilian blacks.The results show racial inequity in oral health in Brazil for all the indicators analyzed (caries, tooth loss, pain, and need for prostheses), with greater vulnerability among the black population compared to whites. Contextual factors related to the human development profile, income distribution, and access to health care policies appear to play a key role in describing the vulnerability of populations to oral health problems.

SUMMARY Health promotion aims to ensure that the population has improved living and health conditions, and schools are appropriate environments in which to do this. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of health promotion in terms of oral health in special schools for mentally disable pupils in Brazil. The study was cross-sectional and adopted a qualitative and quantitative approach, using triangulation methods to observe the reality. An epidemiological survey was performed in order to analyse the oral health status; a semi-structured questionnaire and participative observation were used for the qualitative analysis of the health promotion activities undertaken in the schools; case studies were carried out to evaluate the profile of oral health status in the context of the schools. The sample was comprised of 383 schoolchildren aged 2‐19, stratified among 7 schools, Curitiba/ Parana´/Brazil. The analysis was performed by means of frequency distribution and associations between variables, using the SPSS 16.0 program. The oral health status prevalences in the population studied were dental caries, 49.3%; bleeding gums, 23.8%; dental trauma, 11% and toothache in the last 3 months, 17,8%. Dental caries and bleeding gums experience was associated with the level of the mother’s education (p,0.00) and age group (p,0.00). Dental trauma and toothache in the last 3 months were associated with the level of the mother’s education (p,0.00 and p,0.00, respectively). Analysis of the dimensions of health promotion demonstrated that health is being promoted in all the schools studied. However, the analysis of oral health indicators per school revealed a possible interference of socio-demographic aspects in the results. It was concluded that the analysed special schools for the mentally disabled promote health. However, the socio-demographic profile of this population appears to have greater influence on vulnerability than the school context in relation to oral health status.

To investigate social determinants of oral health, analysing the occurrence of associations between millennium development goals (MDG) indicators and oral health (OH) indicators.An ecological study was performed in two distinct phases. In Phase 1, MDG indicators and related covariates were obtained from the demographic census of the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics, the Ministry of Health database and the 2000 Human Development Atlas, making up the whole set of independent variables. Principal component analysis was carried out for the independent variables showing the correlations among the variables comprising the main components, and generating a synthetic index allowing the performance of the cities to be known with regard to the MDG (MDG index). In Phase 2, the DMFT index (mean number of decay, missing or filled permanent teeth) and the CF index (prevalence of caries-free individuals), in 12 years old were obtained from the epidemiological survey undertaken in 2002-2003, in 49 cities in southern Brazil, and were analysed in relation to the MDG index using Spearman's correlation. A statistically significant correlation was found for the DMFT and CF indices, respectively, with: the MDG index (R(2)=0.49 and 0.48; P = 0.00); the socioeconomic status of the population (R(2)= 0.12 and 0.12; P = 0.02); the socioenvironmental characteristics (R(2)=0.41 and 0.46; P= 0.00). The MDG synthetic index of the cities analysed and the respective components relating to their socioeconomic and socioenvironmental status demonstrated a positive correlation with OH indicators. As such, intersectoral public policies based on population strategies that act on social determinants of general and oral health need to be integrated so as to impact on the MDG and OH outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: The present study evaluated the association between lactotransferrin (LTF) gene polymorphism (exon 2, A/G, Lys/Arg) and dental caries. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A convenience sample of 110 individuals, 12 years old, was divided into: group 1, 48 individuals without caries experience (DMFT=0), and group 2, 62 subjects with caries experience (DMFT>1). DNA was obtained from a mouthwash with 3% glucose solution, followed by a scrapping of the oral mucosa. After DNA purification, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) was performed to access the study polymorphism. The LTF A/G (Lys/Arg) polymorphism had been previously reported as located in exon 1. RESULTS: Allele 1 of the study polymorphism was associated with low DMFT index and showed a protective effect against caries experience (OR=0.16, IC=0.03-0.76, p=0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Lactotransferrin A/G (exon 2, Lys/Arg) polymorphism was associated with susceptibility to dental caries in 12-year-old students.

The purpose of this study was to identify dental caries protection factors in 5-year-old children in the city of Curitiba, Brazil.This case-controlled study was based on secondary data obtained from electronic medical records of 5-year-old children using Curitiba's municipal health service in 2005. Independent variables included those related to the child and his or her family context. The association between variables was studied by chi-squared, Fisher's exact, and Mann-Whitney's tests and multiple logistic regression.Caries experience was slightly associated with nutritional state, preschool experience (if the child regularly attended a preschool), and mother's age and education level. Multiple logistic regression confirmed most bivariate associations. Children who had normal weight (odds ratio [OR]=2.23; 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.04, 4.80) or who were overweight (OR=2.74; 95% CI=1.15, 6.53), did not go to preschool (OR=1.59; 95% CI=1.05, 2.41), and whose mothers were at least 26 years old (OR=1.62; 95% CI=1.14, 2.30) had a greater probability of being caries-free.Normal or overweight children who did not attend preschool and whose mothers were at least 26 years old had a greater probability of being caries-free.

An evaluation was made of the perception of oral health teams regarding Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) as a primary oral healthcare strategy used by the Municipal Health Department of Curitiba, Paraná State. A study was made both of Health Units (HU) that operate using the Family Health Strategy (FHSHU) and those that do not (Basic Healthcare Units--BHU). The sample involved 191 oral health professionals proportionally (CI=95%, e=6%). A questionnaire was used to collect data. The information was analyzed using the SPSS 13.0 program. The response rate was 82%. Chi-square testing did not reveal a statistically significant difference between the FHSHU (83.1%) and the BHU (74.3%) with regard to knowledge about the technique (p0.05). A difference was found as to training in ART among the different HU (p0.01) and the use of the technique by the services (p0.01). The length of training and the length of service of dental health professionals at the municipal health service were relevant in relation to knowledge of the technique and the taking of clinical decisions as to ART. The conclusion was reached that training on ART is needed at the primary healthcare level as a result of the different perceptions revealed.

Introduction Ameloblastomas are benign asymptomatic intraosseous lesions that affect the bones of the maxillomandibular complex, interfering both in function and facial esthetic appearance. A 14-year-4-month-old girl was referred by her clinician complaining her anterior teeth were crooked and inclined forward. The lower left mandibular tooth presented with increased pericoronal space compatible with dentigerous cyst. Methods and Results The aim of this report is to relate a case of unicystic ameloblastoma with conservative treatment and with indication for orthodontic treatment. The conservative therapy was performed and the lesion had been completely removed. The need for radiographic and clinical follow-up for up to 10 years, initially performed every 6 months during the first 2 years and afterwards annually, in addition to the risk of late recurrence were explained for patient and her guardian. Conclusion The histopathologic exam of the surgical tissue provided the final diagnosis of ameloblastoma, as the lesion had not presented in its classical form and in atypical locations, as in this case involving a tooth that had not yet erupted.

This study sought to explore the intersectoral actions developed by the oral health teams of Curitiba, Paraná State, and to analyze the local managers' perception about intersectoral approach. A cross-sectional study with quantitative and qualitative methodology was used, with data collection by a self-response questionnaire and focal group technique. The results showed that most health promotion actions carried out by the teams are interdisciplinary and when other sectors are involved it is in turning physical spaces available, without jointed and integrated perspectives. The managers' perception reinforces in the concept the teams' practices. It was observed that the Family Health Strategy facilitate intersectoral actions and the intersectorality is a challenging way of work, but possible to become reality.

To review the scientific literature concerning dental fluorosis and to evaluate its occurrence among children attending public schools in the city of Curitiba, which is in the state of Paraná in Brazil.We reviewed the international literature on fluorosis that was published between 1998 and 2001, focusing on systematic critical reviews that were listed in such electronic bibliographical sources as MEDLINE, LILACS, the Cochrane Library, and Sci-ELO Public Health. In addition, in 2000 we carried out a cross-sectional study with 12-year old schoolchildren (n = 1,494) in Curitiba.Our literature review found that there is still much controversy regarding the benefits associated with fluoride supplementation and the impact of fluorosis. In our cross-sectional study with the Curitiba schoolchildren, we found a fluorosis prevalence of 23% for grade 2, 3, 4, or 5 on the Dean index. The observed fluorosis had little impact on the biopsychosocial health of the children studied, as shown by the multivariate logistic regression analysis. The analysis showed that the presence of fluorosis was not significantly associated with dissatisfaction with tooth color. However, there was an association between the independent variable of place of residence (sanitary district within Curitiba) and fluorosis (P = 0.00), in both the bivariate and multivariate analyses.Based on our results, we concluded that dental fluorosis is not now a crucial epidemiological problem for the population studied in Curitiba. Any initiatives to control fluorosis should take into account the population's perception of the problem. Nevertheless, it is still extremely important to monitor the levels of fluoride in drinking water.

Background The study presents a geographical analysis of dental trauma in a population of 12 and 15 year-old school-children, in the city of Curitiba, Brazil (n = 1581), using a database obtained in the period 2005-2006. The main focus is to analyze dental trauma using a geographic information system as a tool for integrating social, environmental and epidemiological data. Methods Geostatistical analysis of the database and thematic maps were generated showing the distribution of dental trauma cases according to Curitiba's Health Districts and other variables of interest. Dental trauma spatial variation was assessed using a generalized additive model in order to identify and control the individual risk-factors and thus determine whether spatial variation is constant or not throughout the Health Districts and the place of residence of individuals. In addition, an analysis was made of the coverage of dental trauma cases taking the spatial distribution of Curitiba's primary healthcare centres. Results The overall prevalence of dental trauma was 37.1%, with 53.1% in males and 46.7% in females. The spatial analysis confirms the hypothesis that there is significant variation in the occurrence of dental trauma, considering the place of residence in the population studied (Monte Carlo test, p = 0,006). Furthermore, 28.7% of cases had no coverage by the primary healthcare centres. Conclusions The effect of the place of residence was highly significant in relation to the response variable. The delimitation of areas, as a basis for case density, enables the qualification of geographical territories where actions can be planned based on priority criteria. Promotion, control and rehabilitation actions, applied in regions of higher prevalence of dental trauma, can be more effective and efficient, thus providing healthcare refinement.