Citation

Al-Batayneh OB, Owais AI, Al-Saydali MO, Waldman HB. Dent. Traumatol. 2017; 33(4): 269-275.

Affiliation

Department of General Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA, 11794-8706.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/edt.12334

PMID

28276628

Abstract

BACKGROUND/AIM: Children with special health care needs (CSHCN) are at an increased risk for traumatic dental injuries (TDI) due to unique predisposing factors; moreover, their access to dental care is compromised. In Jordan, there is a need to study TDI among CSHCN to highlight their dental care needs. The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence, types, possible risk factors associated with TDI, and treatment-seeking behavior in CSHCN in Jordan. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Children (n=959) were examined in schools/centers for CSHCN, and compared to a healthy age- and gender-matched control group. Data concerning demographics, types of trauma, risk factors associated with TDI and treatment-seeking behavior were collected. Data were analyzed using SPSS for descriptive and bivariate analyses. Significance level was set at P≤0.05.

RESULTS: Prevalence of TDI in the study group (age, 11.76±4.2 years) and control group (age 11.70±4.2 years) was (83/959, 8.7%) and (42/1010, 4.1%), respectively. TDI prevalence was highest in children with multiple disabilities (14.0%), followed by intellectual disabilities (13.1%), and cerebral palsy (12.2%). The most common type of TDI was an uncomplicated crown fracture (91.0%). Increased overjet and incompetent lips were significant risk factors associated with TDI. Reasons for not seeking treatment in the study vs control group included parental attitude and lack of dental awareness (68.1% vs 60%), difficulties getting an appointment and availability of dental clinics willing to see CSHCN (36.2% vs 0%), P≤0.01, and financial reasons (31.9% vs 40%).

CONCLUSIONS: Prevalence of TDI was higher in CSHCN, and associated with increased overjet and incompetent lips. Uncomplicated crown fracture was the most common injury. In both groups, the main reason for not seeking treatment was lack of dental awareness among parents/caregivers; however, difficulties in getting an appointment and availability of dental clinics willing to see children was more prominent in the CSHCN group. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Language: en

Keywords

Children; Special health care needs; Traumatic dental injuries; Treatment