Knowledge on Management of Traumatic Dental Injury and Related Predictors in Taif, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objectives: This study was undertaken to investigate the knowledge and attitudes toward pediatric traumatic dental injury (TDI) among the population of Taif, as well as predictors of emergency management and intentions for future education, with an additional focus on the subpopulation of parents. Methods: Data were collected from 345 participants using an anonymous questionnaire that was distributed online and contained four sections: demographics, questions regarding TDI knowledge and previous experiences, questions about the management of two clinical cases, and questions about the self-reported capability to manage future TDIs and the motivation for future education/training. Adjusted linear and logistic regressions were utilized to assess the effect of the different predictors on the total knowledge score, self-reported management capabilities, TDI learning importance, and future education/training interests. Results: The findings revealed poor overall knowledge regarding TDI management, especially in avulsion incidents, with slightly better knowledge in the subpopulation of parents. In the total population, working in a governmental job (p-value = 0.047) or as a freelancer (p-value = 0.006) was associated with higher knowledge, while obtaining any previous TDI information was associated with sufficient management capabilities (p-value = 0.001). Regarding the parent subpopulation, attending a previous TDI educational course was associated with higher knowledge (p-value = 0.043). Similar to the total population, obtaining any previous TDI information was associated with sufficient management capabilities (p-value = 0.001). However, receiving such information from professional resources was associated with lower management capabilities (p-value = 0.033). No significant associations were observed regarding the outcomes of TDI learning importance and future education/training interests. Conclusion: This study highlights significant gaps in the knowledge, awareness, and skills related to pediatric dental injuries and their management among the population of the Taif region. Targeted educational interventions are needed to increase public awareness and bridge the current gaps in knowledge and skills.

The Prevalence of Temporomandibular Disorders Among Dental and Medical Students in Taif, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objectives  This study was undertaken to investigate the prevalence of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and the impact of various contributing factors among undergraduate healthcare students in the region of Taif, Saudi Arabia. Methods A total of 100 undergraduate students were recruited from both the College of Medicine and the College of Dentistry at Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected on demographic parameters and the Helkimo's index (anamnestic {Ai} and clinical dysfunction {Di} component) using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire, as well as clinical examinations.  Results A significantly high prevalence (97%) of TMDs was observed among the sampled students, with most of them (44.0%) experiencing severe symptoms that might negatively impact their quality of life. On clinical examinations, most of the students (75.0%) showed signs of mild clinical dysfunction, which might indicate an early stage of TMD. Moreover, factors that include older age, majoring in "dentistry" studies, being allergic, having oral habits, poor mental health, and previous COVID-19 infections were found to be significantly associated with TMDs. Conclusion The findings indicate a relatively high TMD prevalence among the sampled undergraduate healthcare students, especially those studying "dentistry". Curriculum modifications, coupled with more awareness and education, are recommended to achieve early diagnosis and help in reducing the incidence of TMD among this population.

Assessment of Oral Health Conditions Among Physically Disabled Patients in Saudi Arabia

OBJECTIVES

This study was undertaken to assess the oral health status among physically disabled Saudi patients.

METHODS

Recruitment took place in the Armed Forces Centre for Health Rehabilitation in Taif, Saudi Arabia. 124 patients living with a physical disability were enrolled and divided into three groups: hemiplegia, paraplegia and quadriplegia. Data was collected on demographics and different oral indices, including the Decayed Missing Filled Teeth (DMFT) index, the Mean Decayed Teeth score, the Community Periodontal Index (CPI), the Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN), and the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S).

RESULTS

High DMFT was observed among the hemiplegia group (mean = 22.61; P-value = .008) with no difference in the Mean Decayed Teeth. All groups showed signs of gingivitis in the form of gingival bleeding. The most compromised periodontal health in the form of pockets 6 mm or deeper was found in the hemiplegia group (53.7%; P-value = .001). This was also reflected in the CPITN (39.0%; P-value = .001), indicating the need for complex treatments in the same group. Regarding oral hygiene, all groups showed a "fair" oral hygiene condition (OHI-S < 3.0), with significantly poorer hygiene (mean = 2.49; P-value = .042) and greater debris accumulation (mean = 1.52; P-value = .024) among the quadriplegia group. In the regression analysis, both age and gender had significant effects on some indices, while disability type showed borderline effects.

CONCLUSION

The findings indicate poor oral health in these individuals, mainly due to physical limitations, hindering effective self-care practices.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Oral health is a critical aspect in people with physical disabilities, as it is intrinsically linked to overall health and well-being. Recognizing the clinical importance of oral health among physically disabled patients is essential to improve access and affordability of dental care for this vulnerable group of the population.