THE SUS IN THE DIGITAL ERA: A LOOK AT PUBLIC DENTISTRY IN BRAZIL

Digital dentistry has transformed oral healthcare processes, introducing technological innovations such as teledentistry, mobile applications, remote diagnosis, and digital workflows. In the context of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS), these technologies represent an opportunity to expand access, improve the quality of care, and overcome historical structural limitations. Thus, this study aimed to conduct an integrative literature review to answer the guiding question: what are the advances and challenges of digital dentistry within the SUS? The search was carried out in PubMed, SciELO, Virtual Health Library (VHL), and gray literature using DeCs/MeSH terms such as Unified Health System, Oral Health, and Digital Technology. Articles published between 2020 and 2025 addressing digital dentistry in the SUS context were included. Initially, 244 articles were retrieved. Duplicates and studies outside the scope were excluded. After applying eligibility criteria, 9 studies composed the final sample. The results indicate significant benefits of digitalization, such as strengthening primary care, expanding access to vulnerable populations, improving the skills of oral health teams, and ensuring continuity of care in challenging contexts such as the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the studies also highlight challenges, including regional inequalities in access to technological infrastructure, insufficient training of professionals in emerging technologies, and difficulties in integrating digital systems into public health service routines. In conclusion, digital dentistry within the SUS shows promising advances that may improve access and the quality of oral healthcare. Nevertheless, for its full incorporation, it is essential to address remaining structural challenges. Investments in technological infrastructure, professional training, and integrated public policies are crucial to promoting equity and effectiveness in oral healthcare.