Oral health promotion in a Philanthropic Living Center in the city of Londrina

Abstract

Introduction: The promotion of oral health comprises health education actions to prevent diseases and injuries of the oral cavity, enabling reflection on habits and improving them. Objective: To develop self-care practices from the perspective of oral health. Method: The promotion and prevention of oral diseases was carried out in a Philanthropic Living Center in Londrina-PR, in May 2022, for 37 children between 06 and 11 years old allocated in the Institution. The movement was carried out by dentists from the Multiprofessional Residency in Family Health at the State University of Londrina. Results: Topics such as caries, gingivitis, halitosis, deleterious habits and the importance of a healthy diet aligned with physical exercise practices were addressed. Contents were presented in accessible language and in a playful way using images with progression and prevention of oral diseases and the use of the macro model of the oral cavity guiding brushing and flossing techniques, facilitating the understanding of the age group. After solving all doubts and putting into practice the teachings in the macro model, supervised brushing was carried out using the oral hygiene kits that were distributed on site. Conclusion: The promotion of oral health as a health education tool allows children to reflect on healthy habits and the prevention of oral diseases.