Traumatic dental injuries among schoolchildren in Valencia, Spain.

AIM The aim of the present study was to identify some factors related to the occurrence of dental trauma in mixed and permanent dentition. DESIGN OF THE STUDY Over a period of two months 1325, 6 to 18 year olds from three primary schools in Valencia were examined. Data was collected through clinical examinations and interviews and their Dental trauma was classified according to IADT's criteria. RESULTS The prevalence of dental injuries was 6%; boys aged between 12-18 years old experienced more injuries than girls. There was a statistical difference between the types of fractures. Non complicated coronal fractures were the most frequent (9.18%). Games were the main cause of trauma (40%) in both sexes. In 14.3% of patients a dental colour change was observed. Angle's class I was the most frequent in traumatized injured children (41.2%). CONCLUSIONS The present study revealed a relatively low prevalence of dental trauma, but this figure still represents a large number of children. Therefore, educational programs are to be initiated for the community regarding causes , prevention and treatments of traumatic dental injuries.