Traumatic dental injuries in Brazilian preschool children

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and distribution of traumatic injuries to primary anterior teeth in children from zero to 6 years old, all attendees in 28 public nursery schools in Canoas (Brazil). A total of 1545 boys and girls participated in the study. The children were clinically examined for signs of trauma according to Andreasen's classification. Traumatic injuries were identified in 35.5% of children. The largest percentage of injuries was demonstrated by 3-4-year-old child, with no significant difference between boys and girls. The maxillary central incisor was the most vulnerable to injury, without differences between the right and the left side. Single tooth injury was predominant in all age groups. Crown fractures represented 83% of all traumatic injuries. Our findings emphasize the importance of encouraging parents to visit the dentist with their child at an early stage. Furthermore, parents and educators should be advised about prevention of traumatic injuries and actions to be taken in case of an accident.