Differences in dental care for pregnant women in the public sector after the creation of Previne Brasil

Abstract

 Aim: To compare performance differences among dental surgeons in the public sector of the state of Minas Gerais regarding prenatal dental care before and after the establishment of Previne Brasil. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, gathering data through a structured questionnaire. The sample consisted of dental surgeons working in the public sector of municipalities in MG and utilizing the snowball effect. Data analysis was performed using the IBM-SPSS® version 29.0, employing Pearson’s Chi-square statistical test (P<0.05). Results: Out of the 28 State Health System (SRS) present in MG. A total of 1696 responses were collected, but after applying the exclusion criteria, 1001 responses remained, specifically related to dental surgeons working in MG public sector. 78.6% comprised professionals who graduated before 2019, while 20.1% graduated after that year. The morning and the second or other gestational trimesters were the most common periods considered optimal for caring for pregnant women. A significant portion of the professionals had not undergone any specific courses or training on this topic, reporting an average satisfaction level of 5.52 regarding the accessibility of information during their education aimed at this audience. Conclusion: Variances were observed in the care provided to pregnant women by dental surgeons working in the public sector of Minas Gerais, distinguishing those trained before and after the implementation of Previne Brasil. The debunking of myths and taboos stands as crucial for enhancing the acceptance of prenatal dentistry.