O profissional da odontologia e seu papel no diagnóstico do abuso infantil: revisão de escopo

Abstract

The objective was to map the available evidence on the main types of child abuse that may appear in dental practice, along with their signs and symptoms. This is a scoping review conducted through searches in the following databases: Virtual Health Library (VHL), PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. A total of 20 studies were selected, with a minority (9) originating from Brazil, and only 20% published after 2019, suggesting scientific internationalization and a current scarcity of studies on the topic. Physical violence was the most frequently cited form of abuse, with clinical observations showing that injuries manifest in both soft and hard tissues. The most common signs included bruises, hematomas, dental fractures, abrasions, and wounds at different stages of healing. The early detection and qualified approach to child abuse cases by dental surgeons are essential for protecting vulnerable children, requiring a keen awareness of clinical and behavioral signs. Furthermore, continuous training, the strengthening of public policies, and a multidisciplinary approach are crucial to improving reporting and addressing child violence.