Dental care in the prison system: a cross-sectional study in male penitentiary units in a medium-sized city in São Paulo state (2023–2025)

Abstract

Introduction: Incarcerated individuals remain excluded from access to comprehensive healthcare, particularly in the field of oral health (OH). Objective: To characterize dental care provided in male prison units in the municipality of Piracicaba, São Paulo, from April 2023 to April 2025. Material and method: Observational, cross-sectional, and descriptive study based on secondary data from the e-SUS Primary Health Care system. Aggregated records of dental care were analyzed according to age group, type of consultation, shift, health conditions under surveillance, and procedures performed. Statistical analysis was descriptive, using absolute and relative frequencies, and spreadsheets. Result: 4,199 dental care visits were recorded, predominantly involving individuals between 25 and 34 years of age (approximately 43%). The distribution of care was observed between the morning (47.3%) and afternoon (52.7%) shifts, and initial consultations accounted for 52.8% of the care provided, while maintenance consultations represented only 1.1%. Toothache was the most frequently reported complaint. In total, 4,837 procedures were performed, predominantly supragingival scaling (40.7%), extractions of permanent teeth (14.2%), and temporary sealants (14.8%). Preventive actions were infrequent, such as oral hygiene guidance (1.6%), prophylaxis (0.8%), and topical fluoride application (0.04%). Conclusion: Dental care in the male prison system of the Municipality of Piracicaba, São Paulo, is predominantly curative and immediate, with low prevention and continuity of care.