Prevalence of traumatic injuries and knowledge regarding emergency care among 11-14 years government school children in rural area, Dehra, Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh.

OBJECTIVE To assess the prevalence of traumatic injuries and the knowledge regarding the emergency care among school children in rural area Dehra, Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional survey was carried out in 13 government schools among 1041 subjects aged 11- 14 years. The demographic details and knowledge regarding emergency care was recorded on a structured questionnaire. The data regarding the traumatic injuries was recorded using modified Ellis' classification. RESULTS Prevalence of Traumatic Dental Injuries (TDI) was found to be 5.12 %. Maxillary central incisor was the most common tooth to be affected (58.1%). The main cause for TDI was found to be due to falls (51.2%). Enamel with dentin fracture with pulp exposure was the main type of TDI (46.7%). The awareness regarding emergency care revealed that 63.4% of subjects were aware of emergency care. The knowledge regarding TDI increased with increase in age. CONCLUSION The prevalence of dental trauma was found to be low and the awareness level regarding emergency care was found to be fair. Hence it is highly recommended to plan a community wide trauma prevention campaign targeting parents, children and dental care providers.