Impact of Bariatric Surgery on the Oral Health of Patients at a Hospital in the City of Montes Claros
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the oral health conditions of individuals who underwent bariatric surgery at a private hospital in Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, Brazil, highlighting the importance of dental follow-up during the postoperative period. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive study with a mixed-methods approach (qualitative and quantitative). The sample consisted of 22 female patients at 4, 12, 15, and 18 months after surgery. Data collection involved the administration of a structured questionnaire and a clinical oral examination using a dental mirror and wooden spatula. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, version 29.0, through descriptive statistics. Results: A low occurrence of gingivitis and periodontitis was observed. In contrast, a high prevalence of xerostomia (77.3%) was found, and 68.2% of the patients reported that they had not received medical guidance regarding dental follow-up after surgery. Conclusion: Although bariatric surgery is effective in controlling obesity and associated comorbidities, it may lead to oral changes, especially xerostomia, reinforcing the need for regular dental follow-up. Multidisciplinary integration among dentists, physicians, and nutritionists is essential to ensure the maintenance of oral health and the quality of life of bariatric patients.
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7160453068