[Perceptions and attitudes of public health service dentists in the face of family violence in 24 municipalities in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, 2013-2014].

Objective to describe the perceptions and attitudes of dentists working in Primary Healthcare Units in the face of family violence in 24 municipalities in the interior of Sao Paulo state, Brazil. Method this is a descriptive study conducted between July 2013 and July 2014; the study population was comprised of 294 professionals; data were collected through a questionnaire containing objective and subjective questions. Results 111 dentists took part (37.8%), 67.5% of whom were unaware of existing legislation on cases of violence; 70.0% did not know how to report the occurrence of cases; 55.0% reported not having any responsibility for notification; 85.0% were unaware of the notification form; and 60.0% said they should intervene in cases of family violence. Conclusion the perceptions and attitudes of dentists have shortcomings in relation to notification of family violence and this hinders early diagnosis of the victims of such violence.