Knowledge of basic dental physiology among teachers can improve preliminary management of acute dental avulsion in school children

Abstract

Background and Aim: Acute dental injuries occur frequently in school going children. Teachers are often the first person to initiate emergency care before medical help is available. This study was carried out to evaluate the knowledge and attitude to emergency management of dental trauma among a group of school teachers in Pondicherry, India. Methods: A structured questionnaire was administered to 60 teachers. Results: Nearly 85% of teachers did not have any formal first‑aid training during their career. Furthermore, 81% of teachers had never experienced an episode of acute dental injury in the school environment. Concerning knowledge, 50 participants favored an immediate/early management of acute dental injury. Control of bleeding seemed to be the primary concern in 37% of teachers. Knowledge of optimal storage media for avulsed permanent teeth was poor. Twelve teachers were unsure if they should be exposed to first‑aid training. This may be due to reluctance to take up responsibilities in addition to their routine duties. Conclusion: Teachers should be exposed to education programs in dental first‑aid management. Knowledge of basic dental physiology and the physiological events following the repositioning of an avulsed tooth will help in better management of dental trauma.