Knowledge, awareness, and attitude among the employees in emergency ambulance services towards traumatic dental injuries

INTRODUCTION: Traumatic dental injuries are the most frequently encountered dental emergencies. Psychologically a missing tooth in the front tooth region can be a cause of social embarassment for the child and may elevate the anxiety level in the parents. The prognosis of any road traffic accident (RTA) mainly depends on the employees in emergency ambulance services to prompt correct emergency measures. AIM OF THE STUDY: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the knowledge and the awareness level of the employees in emergency ambulance services regarding the management of dental trauma in patients who have sustained RTAs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In total, 100 healthcare workers in 108 emergency ambulance services were randomly evaluated using a self-structured questionnaire in and around Kancheepuram district of Tamil Nadu. RESULTS: The overall knowledge of the personnel in 108 emergency ambulance services regarding management of traumatic injuries to the teeth was not satisfactory. Approximately, 86% of employees reported that no dental first aid is given for the patient who has sustained RTA. CONCLUSION: Dental trauma awareness program and first aid training will help in rebuilding the awareness and knowledge regarding the importance of management in a dental emergency.