Percepção em saúde bucal em pessoas em situação de rua do Centro de Referência Especializado para a população em situação de rua (POP)

Abstract

Oral health is essential for quality of life, yet it is often neglected among vulnerable populations, such as people experiencing homelessness. This study aimed to assess the self-perception of oral health and access to dental services among users of the Centro POP

in Manaus (AM). Using a quantitative approach, structured questionnaires and semi- structured interviews were applied to investigate participants’ knowledge, perception of oral

conditions, and difficulties in accessing dental care. The research was conducted with 162 individuals assisted at the Centro POP, and data analysis was performed using Excel and SPSS 20.0. The sociodemographic profile revealed a predominance of men (95.68%), individuals aged 40 to 49 years (35.80%), and a majority who self-identified as mixed race (“pardo”) (79.01%), with low educational attainment, particularly incomplete elementary school. Most participants were unemployed (64.20%) and had been experiencing homelessness for 1 to 5 years, mainly due to family conflicts, substance dependence, marital problems, and unemployment. Self-perception of oral health was largely negative, with 35.80% rating it as “very poor” and 21.60% as “poor.” More than half had not attended a dental appointment for over three years (54.32%), and when they did seek care, it occurred primarily in Primary Health Units or private clinics (38.89% each). The most common procedures were cleanings or check-ups (25.31%) and tooth extractions (17.28%). Although 61.11% felt their problem was resolved during their last appointment, a significant portion still reported unmet oral health needs. The study’s findings provide valuable insights for developing strategies to improve the inclusion of and access to oral health services for the homeless population, contributing to more effective and sensitive public policies that address their specific needs.