Evaluating Traumatic Dental Injuries among Nigerian Children Attending Two Tertiary Dental Centres

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the pattern of traumatic dental injuries (TDI) among Nigerian children. Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional prospective study in which data were collected from 66 children aged 1 to 16 years who presented at the two tertiary dental centres. Data on age, sex, cause and place of trauma, time of presentation and reason for delay in presentation to the dental clinic, involved tooth, and radiographic findings were collected from July 2021 to May 2023 using a questionnaire. Garcia-Godoy’s classification was used to record the type of TDI. Chi-square test was conducted and factors associated with immediate presentation were considered significant when p < 0.05. Results: More males (57.6%) than females (42.4%) had TDI. Many children (62.1%) sustained TDI at home and falls (77.3%) were the major cause. Only nine (13.6%) children presented within 24 hours following the trauma. There was a significant association between age (p=0.03) and immediate dental visit. Conclusion: Traumatic dental injuries occurred more in boys and at home. Fall was the commonest cause, and few presented within 24 hours following the trauma. Age was a predictor of immediate presentation to the dental clinic.