Perception of Oral Health Assistants and Technicians Regarding Dental Care for People with Disabilities

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the perceptions of oral health assistants and technicians regarding dental care for people with disabilities in Paraná. Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study in which self-reported data about the perception of dental care for people with disabilities were collected via a semi-structured questionnaire to oral health assistants and technicians in Paraná. The questions addressed sociodemographic data, training, and knowledge about caring for people with disabilities. Data collection took place during the year 2023 and the questionnaire was sent to participants online. The data were analyzed via descriptive statistics and the chi-square test. Results: A total of 160 responses were obtained, the majority of which were from women (97.5%), self-declared white (37.5%), married (49.4%), with an average age of 38.3 years. Concerning training, 40% were assistants and technicians in oral health, and 82.5% worked in the public sector. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) between public and private institutions if the professional had a subject or class during their training that dealt with the subject of dental care for people with disabilities. Conclusion: Oral health assistants and technicians clearly understand dental care for people with disabilities.