The importance of the insertion of the dentist in the intensive care unit to minimize the risk of pneumonia associated with mechanical ventilation (PAVM)

Abstract

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is one of the main causes of hospital acquired infections in patients admitted to Intensive Care Units (ICUs), representing a significant clinical challenge. The oral cavity, often neglected, serves as a reservoir for respiratory pathogens, contributing to the colonization of the lower respiratory tract in intubated patients. In this context, the inclusion of dental surgeons in ICUs emerges as an effective strategy for VAP prevention, through control of dental biofilm, elimination of oral infectious foci, and guidance of multiprofessional teams on hospital oral hygiene. Recent scientific evidence shows that the systematic presence of dentists reduces the incidence of respiratory infections, duration of mechanical ventilation, and hospital stay, promoting better clinical outcomes and cost reduction. Therefore, the integration of Hospital Dentistry into ICUs should be considered strategic and essential for the safety of critically ill patients.

Keywords: Hospital Dentistry; Intensive Care Unit; Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia; Oral Hygiene.