THE ROLE OF DENTISTS IN IDENTIFYING AND REPORTING CHILD MALTREATMENT: A NARRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Child maltreatment is a public health problem, and many injuries resulting from assault affect the head, face and oral cavity, an area routinely examined by dentists. This study aimed to analyze, in the scientific literature, the knowledge and conduct of dental students and dentists regarding the identification and reporting of child maltreatment. This is a narrative literature review based on searches in SciELO, the Virtual Health Library and Google Scholar, which gathered seven Brazilian studies published between 2017 and 2025, in addition to the relevant legislation. The literature identifies physical abuse and neglect, including dental neglect, as the most frequently addressed forms, with signs such as bruises, lacerations, burns and dental fractures. Students and professionals recognize the importance of the topic and the dentist's responsibility, but are unaware of the notification form, the legal implications of failing to report and the procedure for reporting to the Guardianship Council. Reported barriers include diagnostic insecurity, fear of involvement and lack of protocols. It is concluded that training on the topic is still occasional and predominantly theoretical, and that practical activities, institutional protocols and continuing education are needed for dentists to fulfil their role in child protection.