The oral health situation in Brazil is described, with special emphasis on data relating to the economic and epidemiological situation, caries prevention, human resources, health expenditure and dental care structure. The country presents a picture typical of a developing area, with high disease rates, an increase in the offer of dentists and access to dental care hindered principally by economic barriers. A comprehensive program of basic services in odontology is proposed, with the objective of expanding dental care and reducing the incidence of more prevalent problems.
Oral health; Public health dentistry; Dental health services; Dental carie