Profile of Patients Undergoing Tooth Extraction and Endodontic Access in Dental Emergencies: A Cross-Sectional Study in Salvador, Bahia

Abstract

Introduction: Oral health care in Brazil has evolved with the consolidation of the Unified Health System (SUS), expanding access to clinical and specialized services. However, structural barriers and social determinants, such as low education, insufficient income, and difficulty of access, still limit the adequate use of services, especially among vulnerable individuals. Untreated caries and periodontal diseases can progress to acute conditions, requiring urgent care, often resulting in tooth extraction or conservative treatments, such as endodontic access.  Objective: To evaluate the profile of patients treated at an Emergency Dental Care Unit (UAO-Dique) in Salvador, Bahia, considering sociodemographic characteristics, oral health conditions, risk factors, and self-perception in 2025. Method: Cross-sectional study with 210 participants. Sociodemographic data, access to services, oral morbidity, self-perception, and psychosocial impact were collected. Descriptive analyses, association tests, and hierarchical multivariate logistic regression were applied. Results: Gender, education, and income directly influenced the type of procedure. Men and individuals with lower education and income had a higher prevalence of extractions, while women and patients with better socioeconomic conditions had more conservative procedures. Regular consultations, proximity to health facilities, and seeking treatment increased the number of preventive procedures performed. Negative self-perception of oral health increased the likelihood of tooth extraction. Conclusion: Social, behavioral, and subjective vulnerabilities determine clinical outcomes in dental emergencies. Strategies to promote oral health, expand conservative treatments, and provide continuing education are essential to reduce inequalities, prevent invasive procedures, and promote tooth preservation and quality of life.