Diagnóstico de fluorose dentária por cirurgiões-dentistas em uma área endêmica.

Abstract

Considering that dental fluorosis is endemic in São João do Rio do Peixe city, Paraiba, it is important that the dental surgeon manages not only to treat, but also to guide the population. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge of dental surgeons in São João do Rio do Peixe city in diagnosing cases of dental fluorosis and their severity. Data collection was performed through a questionnaire directed to professionals. Through of 6 images, they answered their diagnostic choices, lesion severity and treatment. Thus, the Dean index was used. Four images were correctly diagnosed by most professionals, however the greatest difficulty was in the diagnosis of the severity of fluorosis. When we associated the gender with the corrects in relation to the severity degree of fluorosis, no statistically significant association was found (p> 0.05). Similarly, no association between gender and indication of treatment was found (p> 0.05). Although the professionals can identify the difference from a normal enamel to a fluoride enamel, majority are unable to differentiate the different degrees of severity of this problem, a situation that will affect the choice of treatment.