FACIAL AND ORAL REHABILITATION IN WOMEN VICTIMS OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE: THE ROLE OF THE DENTIST AND FUNCTIONAL, AESTHETIC, AND PSYCHOSOCIAL IMPACTS

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze the role of the dentist in the facial and oral rehabilitation of women victims of gender-based violence, with emphasis on the functional, aesthetic, and psychosocial impacts during the recovery process. This is a narrative literature review, with a qualitative and descriptive approach, conducted through a bibliographic survey in the SciELO and PubMed databases, including studies related to violence against women, craniofacial trauma, and dental rehabilitation. The results show that the facial region is frequently affected in episodes of aggression, resulting in functional impairments such as masticatory difficulties and speech alterations, as well as aesthetic damage that negatively impacts the victims’ self-esteem and identity. It was also observed that the dentist’s role in rehabilitation goes beyond anatomical restoration, significantly contributing to emotional recovery and social reintegration. It is concluded that dental practice should be guided by an ethical, humanized, and interdisciplinary approach, playing a fundamental role in promoting comprehensive care and restoring patients’ dignity.