Geriatric dentistry in brazilian dental education

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: The increase in life expectancy in Brazil has led to significant changes in the population pyramid. Considering the different stages of life and the specific oral health conditions associated with older adults, adaptations in dental education curricula have become necessary. Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the “Geriatric Dentistry” content included in the curricula of undergraduate dental programs in Brazil accredited by the Ministry of Education (MEC). Material and method: This descriptive documentary analysis study used publicly available secondary data collected from the digital platforms of the MEC and higher education institutions. Based on the list obtained from the “e-MEC” website (n = 646), programs with at least one graduated class (n = 454) and available curricular structures or Pedagogical Political Projects (PPP) were included. The analyzed variables were course title, academic semester, workload, course characteristics (theoretical/practical), and classification (mandatory/elective). Variables were descriptively analyzed according to the information provided by the institutions. Result: Of the total, 395 institutions provided curricular information for consultation, and 260 included either specific disciplines or geriatric dentistry content within related courses. Workload ranged from 20 to 300 hours, with a mean of 87.243 hours (SD = 66.12). Approximately 90% of the disciplines were mandatory, predominantly offered during the final semesters of the undergraduate program. Considerable variability was observed in course nomenclature, including cases of more than one discipline per program. Incomplete information for some variables was identified in part of the evaluated programs. Conclusion: It was concluded that education related to oral health care for older adults in Brazilian dental schools demonstrates wide variability regarding both its inclusion and organization.