METHOD: The sample consisted of 2224 10 to 21-year-old children out of which 185 children with traumatic injury to their anterior teeth were selected. The children were examined with mirrors and probes, sitting on a chair under natural light.
RESULT: The prevalence of traumatic dental injuries to the anterior teeth in this study was 9.0%. The largest number of injury was seen in age group 16-20 years. More boys sustained injuries to their teeth than girls with ratio 2:1. Maxillary central incisors accounted for 136 cases (73.5%) while maxillary canine had the lowest incidence of injury (0.5%). The most common cause of trauma in both sexes was fall (boys 27.6% and girls 20%).Bicycle accident and contact sports accounted for the least cause of traumatic dental injury in girls.
CONCLUSION: Traumatic anterior dental injuries in children in this population show patterns similar to other studies elsewhere. In view of this prevalence, there is need to provide adequate preventive and treatment care for these children. Also, measures should be taken to educate parents on the importance of prompt dental treatment following traumatic injury to the teeth.