Bodily, Oral and Maxillofacial Injuries in Children and Adolescents Victims of Physical Aggression: An Interdisciplinary Perspective in Health

Objective: Violence against children and adolescents represents a major public health issue, with significant repercussions on physical, psychological, and social well-being. This study aims to analyze the patterns of bodily, oral, and maxillofacial injuries in victims of physical aggression, emphasizing the interdisciplinary approach among healthcare professionals in the identification, documentation, and intervention in such cases. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, SciELO, and BVS BIREME. Articles published in the last ten years were selected, focusing on epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and the role of different healthcare areas in the diagnosis and management of injuries resulting from physical aggression. Specific injury patterns, forensic documentation, and multidisciplinary protocols for victim care were analyzed. Results: The findings indicate that the face is one of the most affected regions in physically assaulted children and adolescents, with mandibular fractures, soft tissue lacerations, and dental avulsions being the most prevalent injuries. The presence of multiple traumas in different healing stages and unusual injury locations raises suspicion of abuse. Hematomas, burns, and neurological damage, such as shaken baby syndrome, were also commonly reported. Additionally, the underreporting of cases remains a major challenge, often due to a lack of training among healthcare professionals. Conclusion: The identification of maxillofacial injuries as indicators of child abuse requires a multidisciplinary effort involving Dentistry, Medicine, Psychology, and Social Work. Proper training of healthcare professionals and the implementation of clear protocols for reporting and intervention are essential to improving victim protection and ensuring timely intervention. Strengthening intersectoral collaboration and awareness campaigns are crucial strategies to mitigate the impact of violence on this vulnerable population.