An investigation of dento-alveolar trauma and its treatment in an adolescent population. Part 1: The prevalence and incidence of injuries and the extent and adequacy of treatment received.

AIM

To measure the prevalence and incidence of dental trauma and to assess the extent and success of treatment provided.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional and one-year incremental study.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

2022 11-14-year-old pupils were examined in schools for clinical evidence of trauma of anterior teeth. 1891 were examined 15 months later. A history of the trauma and treatment provided were obtained together with some social data. Radiographs were taken of affected teeth.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Degree of trauma, whether treatment was provided and its quality, ACORN classification.

RESULTS

34% had suffered trauma but only 12% needed treatment for 332 teeth. 47% of these teeth had received treatment, of which 59% was inadequate. After 15 months 4% had experienced new injuries. 42% of boys and 28% of girls (P < 0.01) had sustained injuries, as had 38% from ACORN group III and 30% from groups I and II. 67% of those with pain and 40% of those without attended for treatment (P < 0.01), while 69% who were unhappy with the appearance and 35% who were not (P < 0.01) attended.

CONCLUSIONS

The primary care services currently available for the treatment of dental trauma are inadequate.