A prevalence study of traumatic dental injuries in brazilian schoolchildren

Objective: To assess the prevalence of traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) and treatment demands among elementary schoolchildren. Methods: Eight Federal District (Brazil) schools were selected, and 914 students aged 11 to 14 were examined by a single calibrated operator. Data collected included age, gender, teeth affected, causes, location, type of trauma, and treatment performed or needed. O'Brien's classification was used to identify TDIs. Quantitative analysis was applied. Results: The prevalence of TDIs was 20,24%. The most affected tooth was the maxillary right central incisor (37,1%). Most injuries were enamel fractures (1,65%), followed by enamel and dentin fractures without pulp exposure (0,31%). The mean age at the time of injury was 10,3 (± 2,2) years. Falls were the main cause (36,2%), and most accidents occurred at home (44,3%). Recurrent TDIs were reported by 34 children (18,4%). Prevalence by gender was similar, with 20,4% in boys and 20,0% in girls. Of the 185 injured children, 37 (20%) received treatment, while 148 (80%) did not. Conclusion: TDIs were prevalent among Brazilian schoolchildren, and adhesive procedures were the most required and performed treatments.