Adaptações para o atendimento odontopediátrico durante a pandemia de covid-19

Abstract

At the end of 2019 there was an outbreak of a type of pneumonia of unknown cause, declared by the World Health Organization as a '' Public Health Emergency of international interest '', caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for the pandemic of COVID-19. COVID-19 has high mortality rates in adults, however, children hardly present a severe form of this disease, although the data are more limited in relation to the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of the infected pediatric population, with only 1% of cases described in patients minors younger than 10 years old. Transmission occurs through respiratory droplets (expelled during speech, coughing or sneezing) and also through direct contact with infected people or indirectly through contaminated hands, objects or surfaces. Thus, dental care presents a high risk for the spread of the new coronavirus, due to high viral load in the upper airways and the possibility of exposure to biological materials. Thus, considering the need for adequacy of biosafety measures and impacts on Pediatric Dentistry, the objective of this study was to evaluate the behavioral approach of children and propose adaptations to the basic techniques of behavior management during the pandemic. It was noted that there was a need for adjustments to dental care in order to minimize the risk of infection and the adaptation of basic management techniques. Modifications were proposed, for this period of pandemic, in direct observation techniques, say-show-do, ask-say-ask, non-verbal communication, distraction, presence or absence of parents, positive reinforcement and descriptive praise, being contraindicated the use of inhalation sedation with nitrous oxide and medication. Therefore, it was concluded that the adequacy of dental practice is essential while the pandemic state lasts in relation to the behavioral management of children and also regarding the biosafety criteria that must be followed.