162 - Knowledge and Awareness Regarding Dental Trauma Management Among Parents

Purpose:

This study aims to evaluate parental knowledge regarding dental trauma and identifies factors influencing their knowledge.

Methods:

An anonymous paper survey was distributed among the parents of the BronxCare Pediatric Dental Clinic. The survey consists of two parts: the first consists of a demographic questionnaire such as age, job title, ethnicity, gender, education level, and child's age, and the second part consists of seven knowledge questions.

Result:

The study evaluates parents' knowledge of dental trauma in children aged 6 to 11. Preliminary data suggests a diversified group, primarily aged 25-44, with an equal gender distribution and the majority holding a high school diploma. Participants are evenly divided across Hispanic and Non-Hispanic/Latino categories, with many reporting easy access to healthcare. Survey results show variable levels of awareness, with more parents correctly identifying differences between primary and permanent teeth but less properly answering later questions, such as where to seek treatment after dental injury, management after trauma, and transport medium for avulsion. This indicates gaps in parents' understanding of trauma management.

Conclusion:

This study investigates the link between parental understanding of dental trauma and variables such as healthcare access, education, and demographics. The results show that parental knowledge on dental trauma is low with a large range. The study identifies knowledge gaps and could aid in providing parental education in the management of oral trauma in children.

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