Higiene bucal em pacientes debilitados e/ou Acamados

This study aimed to analyze the available scientific evidence on oral hygiene in debilitated and/or bedridden patients, identifying practices, challenges, and impacts on the health of this population. It is a bibliographic research conducted in the SciELO, PubMed, and Virtual Health Library databases, using descriptors in Portuguese and English related to oral hygiene and the care of people dependent on assistance. The results demonstrated that poor oral hygiene is a recurring problem in different care contexts, influenced by functional dependence, the absence of standardized protocols, and structural limitations. It was also observed that inadequate hygiene contributes to relevant clinical complications, including respiratory infections and a decline in quality of life. Conversely, studies indicate that simple interventions, such as professional training, organized care routines, and periodic dental evaluations, can significantly improve the oral health of these patients. It is concluded that improving oral hygiene is a fundamental strategy for promoting the overall health of debilitated individuals and should be prioritized across levels of care.