Abstract
Aim: To evaluate the experience, knowledge and attitudes of dentists and oral health technicians (OHTs) who work in Basic Health Units in the city of Curitiba, PR, Brazil, regarding cases of abuse against children and adolescents. Methods: In this observational study, three hundred eighty-three questionnaires (validated for Brazilian Portuguese) were sent to dentists and OHTs who work in public health units. The response rate was 38.12% (n = 146) for dentists and 40% (n = 77) for OHTs. Results: The mean age of the dentists was 40±8.29 years, and 53.43% treated more than 10 children per week. The OHTs’ mean age was 45.39±9.71 years, and 62.35% attended to more than 10 children per week. Although the dentists perceived 185 suspected cases of maltreatment, only 35.67% were reported to authorities. In the OHT group, 22.08% were reported to authorities. Sixty-eight dentists (47%) and 11 OHTs (14.28%) reported having treated at least one case of orofacial trauma in the previous 6 months, totalizing 166 orofacial traumas. About the mechanism for reporting suspected cases, 83% of the respondents knew how to report. Over 50% of the responses concerning why the professionals did not report cases of physical violence against children included fear of retaliation and difficulties in diagnosis. Conclusions: Suspected cases of maltreatment against children and adolescents are underreported. More information is required to recognize suspected maltreatment cases and notify authorities.
Highlights
Received for publication: July 14, 2015 Accepted: September 26, 2015Correspondence to: Estela Maris LossoChildren and adolescents are adversely affected by maltreatment because of their physical and psychological weakness and reliance on others[1]
The initial response rate was 38% for the dentists and 40% for the oral health technicians (OHTs), which is reasonable for this type of study, considering that the professionals work with time constraints and a high patient demand
The survey revealed a high prevalence of female dentists working at Basic Health Units in the city of Curitiba[17]
Summary
Children and adolescents are adversely affected by maltreatment because of their physical and psychological weakness and reliance on others[1]. The Network of Protection for Children and Adolescents at Risk for Violence, an organization associated with the city of Curitiba, PR, Brazil, reported 5,371 suspected cases of child abuse in 20113. Child abuse is defined as any action or omission that prejudices the physical and psychological wellbeing, freedom and children’s right to full development. In the United Kingdom 44% of all children were reported in child protection registers[6]. This indicates a failure of parents or guardians to meet the children’s basic care
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
