DENTAL SURGEONS’ PERCEPTIONS OF THEIR PRACTICE IN HOSPITAL DENTISTRY

Abstract

Objective: to understand dental surgeons’ perceptions of their practice in hospital dentistry. Methods: a descriptive, exploratory qualitative study involving an intentional sample of seven professionals from public and private hospitals in Brazil’s Central-West, South and Southeast regions. Data were generated through in-person or virtual semi-structured interviews and examined using content analysis. Results: six categories were identified: career paths and choice of the field; clinical routines and distinctive features of care; multiprofessional integration and the construction of legitimacy; specialized training and continuous learning; structural limitations and consolidation challenges; and emotional impact, bonding and humanization. Participants described a practice combining oral care, understanding of systemic conditions and shared decision-making. They reported uneven institutional recognition, gaps in undergraduate education, a need for ongoing learning, insufficient materials and infrastructure, limited job opportunities and emotional demands. Conclusion: participants recognized dental surgeons as relevant members of comprehensive and humanized care. Consolidating hospital practice requires specific training, adequate working conditions, professional recognition and effective participation in institutional care pathways and decisions.