CONHECIMENTO SOBRE CONDUTA EMERGENCIAL FRENTE AO TRAUMA DENTÁRIO DE AVULSÃO ENTRE PROFESSORES DO NÍVEL FUNDAMENTAL

Abstract

Dental traumatic injuries are a global public health problem, affecting children and adolescents, with a prevalence of up to 25% in school age. The consequences of this trauma can be more severe when emergency management is not done properly, which is why it is essential for elementary school teachers to have knowledge of the subject. Objective: The objective of this research was to evaluate the knowledge of elementary school teachers in public schools about the emergency response to dental avulsion trauma. Methodology: This research was conducted with elementary school teachers from public schools in Vila Velha, ES, Brazil. An online questionnaire containing 15 questions was administered, addressing demographic characteristics, professional information, previous experiences, knowledge, and attitudes on the topic. Results: Among the 103 teachers who participated in the study, only 1.9% received technical training on the subject during their education and 5% after graduation. Only 8.7% of the respondents would reimplant the avulsed tooth in its original location. Furthermore, 52.4% of the respondents reported that they would pick up the avulsed tooth in any position, and 3.9% would pick it up by the root. About 60.2% of the respondents would keep the tooth in a gauze to give it to the parents. The study revealed that the majority of teachers do not have adequate knowledge about the management of avulsed dental trauma. Conclusion: The effect of an immediate and correct response is crucial for the prognosis of the treatment, and the qualification of these professionals can make a difference