Traumatic dental injuries in children treated at the Division of Paedodontics, Faculty of Dental Sciences
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Date
2016-11-05
Authors
Shazli, A.H.M.
Vijayakumaran, V.
Herath, E.M.U.C.K.
Kalubowila, S.S.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
Abstract
Traumatic Dental Injuries (TDI) are common among children and may occur throughout life. The main etiological factors are falls, fight and sports. Recent studies have shown that TDI are on the rise and are the third most common cause for mortality of teeth. This survey was aimed at assessing TDI in children treated at the Faculty of Dental Sciences. Records of student treated cases of dental trauma in patients aged between 6 and 16 years attending the Paedodontic clinic from January-2013 to December-2015 were surveyed. A pre tested questionnaire was used to retrieve the needed information. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, Version 17.0.
Hundred and eighty eight (188) traumatized teeth were observed in 104 child patients. A higher tendency of TDI was observed in boys (Male to Female ratio of 3:1) and at the age of 10-11 years (39.4%). The upper anterior teeth were mostly affected (90.9%) and the most common teeth involved were the upper permanent central incisors (82.9%). The leading etiology for TDI was accidental fall at home (36.5%) followed by fall at school. Uncomplicated crown fracture was the commonest injury to teeth (53%) while subluxation was the commonest injury to the periodontium (60%). Surprisingly, only 10% of patients sought treatment immediately. Out of all affected teeth, 40 teeth needed immediate pulp therapy but only 3 teeth had been treated with pulp therapy.
Consistent with many studies, TDI are three times more frequent in males and accidental fall (90.4%) was found to be the most frequent cause. TDI mainly occurred at home (36.5%) and is in accordance with the study done by Osuji. Only 1/3 of the patients sought dental treatment within 24 hours of TDI. This is low, but better than what has been found by Osuji in Nigeria (11%).
Seeking early treatment is crucial as long a post – traumatic period has been reported to require more complicated or extensive treatment than those presented within a short time.
Description
Keywords
Traumatic Dental Injuries , Children , Paedodontics
Citation
Proceedings of the Peradeniya University International Research Sessions (iPURSE) – 2016, University of Peradeniya, P 243