303 - Prevalence of Traumatic Dental Injuries in a Children’s Emergency Department

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence of Traumatic Dental Injuries (TDIs) in a Level I Pediatric Trauma Center.

Methods: This retrospective study obtained dental records of TDIs presented at Norton Children’s Hospital from a three-year span of January 2019 - December 2021. All notes submitted to Axium for code D9420 “Hospital On Call” were used as part of the sample collection. Descriptive statistics were used to determine frequency and prevalence. The year 2020 was noted as COVID-19 pandemic lockdown year and was compared against pre-pandemic year 2019 and late-pandemic year 2021.

Results: 194 TDI cases were seen in the ED, and a total of 434 teeth were affected and evaluated. While the year 2020 saw more TDIs compared to 2019 and 2021, chi-square analysis showed no statistical significance. 2020 and 2021 also showed more hospital admissions for odontogenic infections compared to 2019. Males have a higher prevalence (1.6 times more likely) than females to have TDIs. Age groups of less than 3 years of age and 7-9 years of age were most commonly seen. Accidental falls and inside homes were the most prevalent cause and location. Upper maxillary central incisors were most commonly affected primary and permanent teeth. Lateral luxations and avulsions were the most commonly seen injuries in the ED.

Conclusions: This study enabled healthcare providers to better understand the demographics and prevalence of TDIs in Kentucky. The study also aids in preparing future pediatric dental residents for taking hospital call.