Prevalence of dental trauma among 6-7-yearold children in the city of Recife, PE, Brazil

Abstract

Dental trauma has a great impact on quality of life, affecting children physically, esthetically and psychologically. Aim: To assess the prevalence of dental trauma in 6-7-year-old northeastern Brazilian children and its correlation with gender. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out with 1,791 children attending 20 public schools in the city of Recife, Brazil. Data collection included oral examination to identify indicators of traumatic dental injury, such as crown discoloration in incisors, and was conducted by 4 previously trained Graduate students (Kappa > 0.8). Traumatic dental injuries were classified according to Andreasen’s criteria. Root fracture was not recorded as no radiographs were taken. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson’s chi-square at a 5.0% level of significance. Results: The prevalence of dental trauma was 9.1% and males were significantly more affected. Crown discolorations followed by enamel fracture were, respectively, the injuries indicators more frequently observed in primary and permanent dentition. The most affected teeth were the upper central incisors in both dentitions. Conclusions: The prevalence of dental trauma in primary teeth was low among 6-7-year-old children in the city of Recife and showed association with gender.