Knowledge of Dental Trauma and its Impact on Orthodontic Tooth Movement Amongst Nigerian Orthodontists and Orthodontic Residents.

Abstract

Background: Knowledge of dental trauma and its impact on orthodontic tooth movement is very important in the
management of orthodontic patients. This study aimed to explore the knowledge and current practices among orthodontists
practicing in Nigeria in managing orthodontic patients with a history of dental trauma.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. Data collection was via self-administered questionnaires. The questionnaires were developed using Google Forms and sent to the WhatsApp group of the Nigeria Association of Orthodontists which contains all the orthodontic residents and consultants in Orthodontics in Nigeria. Only 35 respondents filled out and submitted the form.

Results: The knowledge of respondents about luxation, subluxation, concussion and avulsion were 65.7%, 71.4%, 82.9% and 97.1% correct respectively. Generally, the respondents had good theoretical knowledge of the management of Orthodontic trauma, however, the clinical acumen of respondents in relation to the knowledge of procedures to be done to traumatized teeth during orthodontic treatment was poor. Relatively, very few Orthodontists were conversant with the management of traumatized teeth as more than two thirds of respondents claimed they had not managed any patient with traumatized teeth before. There was a statistically significant difference between the number of orthodontic patients with traumatized teeth being managed by consultants compared to that being managed by registrars.

Conclusion: The respondents demonstrated a good understanding of the dental terms associated with traumatic dental injuries; however, they exhibited a limited understanding of the proper protocols for the orthodontic management of these cases.