Perception of oral health of elderly people in primary care: a narrative approach

Abstract

Brazil follows the curves of the demographic transition with a significant increase in life expectancy, also related to the technological advances in the health sector. However, the dental care historically offered by the Unified Health System has not met the demands of the elderly population. This article aims to understand the perception of oral health of elderly people using a Primary Health Unit, in order to discuss their oral health needs and demands, from the perspective of expanding the clinic. This is qualitative research with a narrative approach. The narratives were constructed from semi-structured interviews and records in the research diary, in dialogue with the theoretical-methodological framework of the narrative approach and buccality. In the analysis of the material, two categories were created: the naturalization of tooth loss and the needs and demands of dental care for older people in the territory. From the stories narrated, a context of exclusion, embarrassment, tension and pain emerges. It can be seen that, even with some advances in health policies, there is still a lack of responses in Primary Care to the growing demands of an aging population with persistent oral problems.