Traumatic dental injuries at a German University Clinic 2004-2008

Aim This study was designed to analyse the distribution and treatment management of patients who presented at a German university dental emergency department for trauma in a 5-year period. Materials/Methods Clinical and radiographical baseline data and recall of patients presenting from 2004 to 2008 for dental trauma were evaluated with regard to age, gender, type of injury and treatment strategies. In addition, trauma management as performed was compared with the guidelines of the International Association of Dental Traumatology (IADT). Results A total of 361 teeth in 219 patients from 1 to 68years were treated with 1.7 injured teeth per incident and patient. Over 75% of the patients were<14years. In 23% of all incidents, primary teeth were affected with a male-to-female ratio of 2.1:1. Luxation injuries were predominant in the deciduous dentition. The domestic environment was the most common trauma location (44%), followed by nursery schools (36%) and outdoors during recreational activities (20%) mainly caused by falls (72%). In 76% of all dental injuries, permanent teeth were involved; 65% of patients were men; and 35%, women (1.8:1). With permanent teeth, enamel-dentine fracture without pulp involvement was most common. Falls (38%), accidental contacts (21%) and sports accidents (18%) caused the most injuries. The majority of teeth were treated in concordance with the guidelines (89%). Conclusions The distribution of traumatic injuries is similar to other national and international data with regard to gender, age and in relation to injury type, location and causes. International and national healthcare associations and teachers in under- and postgraduate education should put effort on increasing the awareness of the guidelines.