THE ASSOCIATION EXTENSION PROJECT "JOÃO ARLINDO": PROGRESS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Abstract

Highly prevalent in high-risk families and individuals, tooth decay still exists as the country’s main case of oral disease. The aim of this study was to describe the progress and achievements of the project extension "Prevention and recovery of oral health in children and adolescents in social risk of The Benevolent Association João Arlindo" the city of Araçatuba - SP, started in 2013. The urvey of Epidemiologic knowledge was carried out to understand population needs, educational health activities, guided brushing; as well as curative actions. Initially, they served 100 children and adolescents ages 6 to 15. These participants participated in weekly guided-brushing sessions in the morning and afternoon of proposed project activities. The supervised brushing was conducted in the single sink of the women’s restroom due to a lack of recourses. Clinical treatment was provided by the College of Dentistry Mobile Unit. are They met with 130 children and adolescents with brushodrome and performed the supervised brushing and clinical care in the Association’s office. This project was made possible by the Itaú-Unicef Award and is currently a UNICEF representative in the State of São Paulo.  The project expands the informational universe of children and adolescents, transforms attitudes and behaviors and incorporates personal health benefits; in addition to the spiritual development of the students.