Oral Health and Dental Management

Abstract

Knowledge and Awareness of Primary School Teachers Towards Emergency Management of Dental Trauma; A Survey Based Study in Schools of Riyadh, KSA

Manal Obied, Sarah Al- Maiman, Ghadah Al-Jumah, Maali Alabadli, Batool Al-Jefri, Dimah Al-Ajaji, Meaad Wadi, Nahla Al-Tassan, Shahzeb Ansari

Introduction: Dental trauma is one of the important problems in childhood. It can vary from a minor chip to extensive maxillofacial damage. Traumatic dental injuries occur most commonly in home and school, where parents and teachers are usually nearby. In this connection, their knowledge about the management of traumatic dental injuries is vitally important for the prognosis of injured teeth. Aims: To assess knowledge and awareness regarding emergency management of dental trauma and estimate the incidence of trauma during their teaching experience. Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional observational survey was conducted among 300 school teachers in Riyadh Saudi Arabia using a self-administered questionnaire. Results: The prevalence of self-reported trauma witnessed during teaching experience was 56% (CI ± 5.45). However, 37% and 18% have witnessed less than five and five or more dental traumas during their work experience respectively. Almost half of the participant (47%) Prefer to Visit the nearest dentist. Others prefer to rush to a hospital (15%). Most of the Participants (54%) did not receive first aid training, and they respond differently to dental trauma. (36%) keep the fractured part in a liquid, one-third (31%) keep the fractured part in a gauze/tissue paper. However, one-fifth (21%) did not know what is the best storage media for the broken teeth. Conclusion: A healthy number of school teachers had witnessed dental injuries during their work hours but their knowledge regarding dental trauma management was not sufficient. Clinical significance: A traumatic dental injury is an event with many consequences; and can significantly affect the quality of life of parents and child alike. Loss or fractures of teeth has a negative psychological effect on the children and parents as well.