ABSTRACT
This article aimed to describe the distribution of dental professionals in Brazil, through a narrative review. The approach is based on the assumptions which lead the individual in choosing such career and as well as their fragmented current practices due to the university educational curriculum process. Furthermore, data are revised on the geographical distribution of these individuals and the potential impacts, among others, in the epidemiological profile of the population oral health problems. It was evident that the workforce shifts as presented in different ways in society and influenced by social needs, public policy and market, play special roles. It discusses the urgency of socio-spatial redistribution of dentists, a role to be played collaboratively among different States in Brazil, regulatory and social control agencies. Finally, the role of dental courses in forming active subjects was highlighted, in the process of health improvement, aiming to build a more equitable and just society.
Indexing terms:
Dentistry; Mouth diseases; Workforce