Abstract
Context. Studies about knowledge of emergency management of traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) which affect children by general dental practitioners (GDPs) and specialists in Saudi Arabia are lacking. Aim The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess the knowledge level of GDPs and specialists about TDI emergency management and its relation with demographic variables in Qassim region, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods. A random sample of 239 GDPs and specialists was given a two-part questionnaire; the first part included demographic questions and the second part included questions related to knowledge of emergency management of luxation (intrusion and extrusion), complicated crown fracture, and avulsion injuries. Data was statistically analyzed using chi-square and ordinal logistic regression tests. The significance was set at P < 0.05. Results The mean knowledge score was 5.57 for GDPs and 6.69 for specialists (out of 12). A significant difference was observed between both groups in the management of avulsion injury. Three factors significantly improved the dentists' knowledge: gender (female), practice type (specialist), and previous experience of encountered TDIs (P < 0.05. Conclusions GDPs and specialists in Qassim region had moderate knowledge of emergency management of TDIs. Specialists were significantly more knowledgeable than GDPs in the management of avulsion injury when compared to the rest of the injuries.
Highlights
At present, traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) are recognized as a public dental health problem, especially in children and adolescents [1]
No significant difference was observed between the knowledge score of specialists regardless of their dental specialty
No significant differences were found between general dental practitioners (GDPs) and specialists in the questions which concerned emergency management of luxation or complicated crown fracture (Tables 2 and 3) (P > 0:05); around 60% of specialists and 50% of GDPs chose the correct answer in case of Situation Answer (A) Immature permanent upper tooth, pinpoint exposure within 3 hours of trauma
Summary
Traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) are recognized as a public dental health problem, especially in children and adolescents [1]. It is reported that 30% of children sustain injuries to the primary dentition and 22% to the permanent dentition [2]. Emergency treatment is commonly provided by dentists who work in ministry of health centers/hospitals and private hospitals/clinics. Both general dental practitioners (GDPs) and specialists may provide emergency treatment of TDIs in these facilities. Their knowledge and skills in the management of TDIs in children should be adequate [6] as initial management if handled inappropriately may affect the prognosis of many TDIs [7]
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