Determinants of dental trauma in 5-year-old children – a questionnaire study in the Polish population

Abstract

Introduction. Tooth injuries are a widespread phenomenon in Poland and worldwide. The management of primary tooth injuries is a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Tooth injuries can be accompanied by many complications. No epidemiological studies have been conducted that would assess the frequency and factors determining the prevalence of primary tooth injuries in the Polish population. Aim. Determining the incidence, type and causes of primary dentition injuries and treatment methods, as well as identification of factors correlating with the above-mentioned parameters in 5-year-olds in Poland. Material and methods. Questionnaire surveys were conducted in 15 voivodeships as part of the programme entitled “Oral health monitoring of the Polish population in years 2016-2020”. Parents of 5-year-old children were included in the study. The questionnaire included questions on socioeconomic factors, parental knowledge and health behaviours in relation to children’s oral health and dental trauma. The results were analysed statistically. Results. A total of 1,044 correctly completed questionnaires were included in the analysis. About 10% of children had a history of primary tooth trauma, usually in the third year of life. The most common injuries were crown fractures and tooth luxations. Most of the parents of children who have sustained a tooth injury reported no need for treatment. Extraction was the most common treatment method. Conclusions. Tooth injury may lead to complications and, consequently, reduced life quality in the child. Only early care and treatment of dental trauma can prevent them.