HUMANIZATION IN DENTAL CARE: RECEPTION OF THE SUBJECTIVITY OF PATIENTS ASSISTED BY UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS UNDER TRAINING

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the patient’s subjectivity as to the dental care provided by undergraduate students under training. Methods: This was a descriptive and exploratory study, conducted through an interview with 40 patients older than 12 years. The method used quantitative and qualitative approaches with content analysis. It was identified for each issue the core of meaning, from which were extracted the indicators in order to proceed with categorization and frequency counting. Results: In relation to the service performed by the students, 47.5% of interviewees reported insecurity, 27.5% relied only if under the supervision of a professional, and 25% felt safe. To qualify the professional as an ideal dentist, 37.5% of patients responded that he/she should be efficient, 32.5% said attention and efficiency would be necessary qualities and 30% reported that only the professional’s attention drawn to the patient would be an important factor. A total of 57.5% of the respondents reported having anxiety during dental treatment. Conclusions: The receptiveness of subjectivity of the patients, when assisted by undergraduate dental students in the training facilities, should be more valued as many individuals feel insecure about this situation. Patients would like an ideal dentist to be a professional with technical skills,but above all, having a humane and friendly contact with them. DESCRIPTORS: Dental anxiety. Humanization of assistance. User embracement.