Self-reported oral health in the Brazilian adult population: results of the 2013 National Health Survey

Abstract

Oral diseases are a relevant public health problem in Brazil, because of their prevalence and magnitude in the population. Population-based surveys are essential tools for the election of groups and demands priority attention, . The aim of this paper was to describe the self-reported oral health status of the population, according to sociodemographic factors. A descriptive study was conducted using the National Health Survey data of 2013. Indicators associated with oral hygiene practices and oral health conditions were analyzed. Men, elders, blacks and browns, individuals with no education and with incomplete elementary level, residents in rural areas and in the northeast had the lowest frequencies of the indicators of oral hygiene and health self-perception oral as good or very good. Total loss has affected about 16.0 million. Both total tooth loss as the loss of 13 or more teeth was more frequent among women, individuals aged 60 and older, poorly educated, residents in rural areas. It is concluded that the data from the National Health Research -PNS 2013 reinforce the need for policies and actions that minimize the inequalities in oral health, ensuring access to the most vulnerable population sub-groups according to their health needs.