ENGAGEMENT OF PREGNANT PATIENTS TO PRENATAL DENTAL CARE: EXPERIENCE REPORT

Abstract

Introduction: Pregnancy is a very important phase in a woman's life when her body goes through several changes including in the oral cavity. Oral changes such as cavities, periodontal diseases, and other infectious sources are commonly present during this stage and can lead to unfavorable outcomes during pregnancy. Despite this, there is still great concern of undergoing dental treatment during this period due to paradigms and lack of information. Objective: to improve the holistic approach of prenatal care, raising awareness for the multidisciplinary team to act as intermediaries in the engagement and referral of pregnant women to dental prenatal care. Methodology: This article is an experience report of a professional experience during the Multidisciplinary Residency in Family Health from July 2023 to April 2024 in a government Family Health Unit (USF) in Cascavel (PR) focusing on prenatal dentistry. The work experience seeks to demonstrate the readjustment of the work process caring for pregnant women raising awareness among the team members and pregnant patients through the distribution of educational folders. Results: The joint efforts made by the multidisciplinary team and the new restructuring of the work process resulted in the perception of greater engagement of pregnant women for prenatal dental care. Final considerations: The intervention demonstrated the positive potential of strategies that involve collaborative actions by interdisciplinary teams in the development of work processes that seek raising effectiveness of integrated health care for pregnant women.