Prevalence, Aetiology and Treatment Patterns of Traumatic Dental Injuries in Permanent Teeth: A Cross-Sectional Study at a Thai University Dental Hospital.

Background/aim: Traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) are a significant public health issue. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, aetiological factors, injury types and treatment patterns of TDIs in permanent teeth among patients at a university dental hospital in Bangkok, Thailand.

Materials and methods: This study was conducted using dental records and radiographs (2D/3D) of Thai patients treated for TDIs at Chulalongkorn University's endodontics clinic (2016-2024). Eligible cases had complete records and radiographs. Two calibrated examiners extracted data on demographics, injury types and treatments. Statistical analysis was performed using R, employing descriptive statistics and chi-squared tests.

Results: This study comprised 175 patients with 453 traumatised teeth. The 6-12-year age group had the highest TDI prevalence (40.00%), with falls as the primary cause (44.00%). Concomitant soft tissue injuries were present in 26.86% of cases, and alveolar fractures in 9.14%. Enamel infractions and concussions were often managed conservatively without direct intervention. Restorative procedures were the primary treatment for coronal fractures, while extraction was indicated for unrestorable crown-root fractures. Root fractures were primarily managed through clinical observation. Luxated teeth were repositioned using appropriate stabilisation techniques. Avulsed teeth were replanted by a dentist with varying success. Endodontic intervention was required for 50.55% of traumatised teeth. Root resorption was identified in 9.71% of teeth, with a higher incidence in teeth with luxation injuries. Pulp canal obliteration was observed in 3.31% of teeth.

Conclusions: TDIs affecting permanent teeth are most prevalent in young children aged 6-12 years, with falls as the leading cause, based on data from a metropolitan university dental hospital. Enhanced education for caregivers and educators, along with adherence to guidelines, is vital for early intervention, effective management and improved prognosis. Prospective multicentre studies are needed to improve generalisability and aid in developing efficient TDI prevention and management strategies.