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Evaluation of traumatic dental injuries in pediatric patients: A cross-sectional study
Özlem Martı Akgün1, Ceren Yildirim2, Gunseli Guven Polat3
1Department of Pediatric Dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Gulhane Faculty of Dentistry, Ankara-Türkiye.
Background:
This study aimed to investigate the etiology, sex distribution, types of traumatic dental injuries, and treatment methods in children referred to the Pediatric Dentistry Department. Understanding these parameters is essential for improving prevention strategies and treatment outcomes in pediatric dental trauma.
Methods:
This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical records of 822 children aged 0-14 years who visited the Pediatric Dentistry Department over a six-month period. Of these, 59 children (7.2%) presented with dental injuries. Traumatic injuries were categorized using the Andreasen and Andreasen classification system. Data were collected on the causes of trauma, the location and type of injuries, and the treatment approaches for both primary and permanent teeth.
Results:
Crown fractures were the most commonly observed injuries, accounting for 76.2% of cases. Other injury types included avulsion (6.6%), subluxation (5.2%), concussion (5.2%), intrusive luxation (3.4%), root fractures (1.7%), and extrusive luxation (1.7%). Permanent teeth were more frequently affected (76.3%) than primary teeth. Falls were the leading cause of traumatic dental injuries, responsible for 77.9% of cases, with schools identified as the most common setting for such incidents (37.2%). Boys (59.3%) were more likely to experience dental trauma than girls (40.7%). Among the injured teeth, 16.9% of permanent teeth showed incomplete root formation. In terms of treatment, restorative procedures were the most frequently used (44.1%), followed by endodontic treatments and extractions, which together accounted for 25.4% of cases.
Conclusion:
Traumatic dental injuries are common among children, particularly those of school age. Falls are the leading cause, with most injuries affecting the enamel layer of the teeth. Timely and accurate diagnosis of dental trauma is essential to minimize complications and preserve long-term dental health. Implementing preventive strategies and educating children, parents, and educators about dental safety can significantly reduce the incidence and severity of these injuries.
