COMMUNICATIVE COMPETENCE IN DENTISTRY: CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIES FOR THE CARE OF DEAF PATIENTS – A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze, in the scientific literature, the challenges and strategies related to communicative competence in Dentistry for the care of deaf patients. This is a bibliographic, descriptive, and qualitative literature review that included publications addressing communication barriers, knowledge and teaching of Brazilian Sign Language (LIBRAS), professional education and training, and strategies and resources used during dental care. Sixteen publications published between 2020 and 2025 were analyzed and organized according to the specific objectives of the study. Communication strategies were addressed in 10 publications (62.5%), particularly LIBRAS, written communication, gestures, visual resources, educational materials, and technological tools. Communication barriers were identified in 8 studies (50.0%), mainly related to insufficient knowledge of LIBRAS, limited professional preparation, and reduced availability of accessible resources. Dentist education and training were addressed in 7 studies (43.8%), highlighting differences in the inclusion of LIBRAS in curricula and limitations in academic preparation. It is concluded that communicative competence involves not only knowledge of LIBRAS, but also the ability to recognize communication needs and adapt strategies to the clinical context.