Dental trauma affects over a billion globally, remains overlooked health concern: AIIMS experts
Researchers highlighted that traumatic dental injury represents a neglected condition of substantial global burden, noting that, if included among the world’s most frequent acute and chronic diseases and injuries, it could rank fifth in terms of prevalence
More than a billion individuals worldwide have experienced traumatic dental injuries, a significant yet frequently underestimated public health issue with potential long-term effects on oral health and quality of life, according to AIIMS experts. Celebrated annually on September 21, Global Dental and Oral Trauma Day, organized by the Indian Society of Dental Traumatology, aims to raise awareness about prevention, prompt management, and equitable access to care for such injuries.
A 2018 study in the Dental Traumatology journal revealed that over one billion living people globally have faced traumatic dental injuries (TDI), making it a condition of considerable global impact if included among the world's most frequent diseases and injuries. Dental trauma can occur unexpectedly and affect anyone, potentially leading to both immediate and enduring consequences.
Contrary to being merely a broken or displaced tooth, it can initiate a lifelong cycle of treatment, follow-up, and rehabilitation for many patients. Dr. Ajay Logani, a professor of endodontics at AIIMS Delhi, emphasized the need to shift focus towards prevention rather than solely treating trauma post-occurrence. Common causes of dental trauma include falls, road traffic accidents, sports injuries, domestic violence, and everyday accidents, with children being particularly susceptible.
Immediate first aid knowledge is crucial, as the response in the first few minutes can significantly influence the outcome of an injured tooth. Sidhartha Sharma, an associate professor of endodontics at AIIMS Delhi, stressed the importance of equipping teachers, coaches, and parents with basic information to recognize serious injuries and take appropriate immediate steps, thereby reducing avoidable complications and improving the chances of preserving an injured tooth.
Prevention strategies, such as safer sports practices, protective equipment, road safety measures, and heightened awareness, are vital for minimizing dental trauma risks, particularly among children and young people. The observance of Global Dental and Oral Trauma Day serves as a reminder that dental trauma should not be considered merely a cosmetic issue, as injuries can lead to long-term consequences for oral health, function, appearance, and overall quality of life.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu - Sci-Tech's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
