Knowledge and attitude among schoolteachers regarding traumatic dental injuries in children: A descriptive study

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) in children are a prevalent issue worldwide, often leading to significant immediate and long-term consequences. This study aimed to shed light on the current state of knowledge and attitudes among schoolteachers, paving the way for targeted interventions that can make a significant difference in the management of traumatic dental injuries in the school environment. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted on teachers in the selected schools using Self-administered questionnaires. The questionnaire included baseline characteristics including type of school the teachers work at (Government/Private), demographics. The second part included questions on the attitude of the teachers about TDI, and the knowledge of the participants about TDI. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with statistical significance set at p30 years of age. Only 25 (27.8%) of the teachers received advice on what to do at the time of any kind of dental trauma. Majority of the participants [48 (53.3%)] wanted to attend an educational program on management of dental trauma. Poor knowledge was the most seen among the teacher’s ages more than 30 years, which was statistically significant. Good knowledge was the most seen among the teachers with a master’s degree. Conclusions: In conclusion, school teachers' knowledge and attitudes toward traumatic dental injuries are crucial for effective emergency management. Addressing knowledge gaps and psychological aspects can empower teachers to respond appropriately, improving outcomes for affected children.