THE INTEGRATION OF DENTISTS INTO HOSPITALSERVICES AND ITS IMPACT ON HEALTHCARE TEAMS: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

This study is an integrative literature review on the role of dental surgeons in tertiary care and their relationship with multidisciplinary teams. The oral health of critically ill patients can directly influence the onset of systemic complications, especially ventilator-associated pneumonia. The study aimed to analyze the clinical and administrative impacts of the dental surgeon’s role in Intensive Care Units. The methodology consisted of a literature search conducted in the PubMed, SciELO, and Virtual Health Library databases. The analyzed studies demonstrate that hospital dental practice, widely discussed in the context of Bill No. 2,776/2008 and supported by regulations and guidelines for Hospital Dentistry, contributes to reducing the oral microbial load, shortening hospital stays, and lowering hospital costs. However, challenges remain related to structural barriers and the lack of standardized protocols among healthcare professionals. It is concluded that interdisciplinary work is essential for patient safety, and it is necessary to strengthen the role of dentistry in public policies for hospital care to ensure comprehensive care.