A Questionnaire-based Dental Survey for the Purpose of Evaluating the Knowledge Level, of School Teaching Staff on First-aid Management of Traumatic Dental Injuries in Bareilly Region

Abstract

Aim: Tooth trauma has been and continues to be the common occurrence that every school teacher and especially sports

teacher must have sufficient knowledge which can improve the prognosis of traumatized teeth of school children through

immediate on-site management or on time referral to healthcare providers. The aim of this particular study was evaluating the

knowledge level of school teaching staff in Bareilly city and also their attitude with respect to emergency first-aid management

of traumatic dental injuries (TDI) taking place in Bareilly schools.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional.descriptive

study among 348 school teaching staff was undertaken in Bareilly region. This was conducted through a questionnaire-based

dental survey which included demographic characteristics, behavioral attitude, and knowledge regarding first-aid management

of TDI.

Results: A total of 348 school teachers responded to the questionnaire. Majority of them, that is, 75.9% had not

received any first aid training. A total of 46.6% teachers were aware that the fractured tooth fragment can be used for the

treatment. When inquired about the luxation injury, 15.5% were aware that the child should be referred to a dentist. In case of

avulsion, 56.3% of the teachers were aware that the tooth can be used for replantation. And only 40.8% of the teachers would

refer the child to a dentist and 24.1% would refer the child to pediatric dentist. Conclusion: The knowledge of the school

teachers in Bareilly about first-aid management of TDI is limited. Programs and guidelines should be formulated to train the

teachers regarding first aid and emergency management of dental trauma.

Key words:  TDI, Dental Trauma, First aid management