Evaluation of the Impact of Dentoalveolar Trauma Management Training Course on Physicians and Dentists' Education in Multiple Hospitals in Mashhad, Iran

Background: Dental trauma injuries are the second most common traumatic injuries among children and adolescents. An incorrect diagnosis or a delayed treatment of traumatic injuries may lead to irreparable damages. Thus, proper management provided by physicians and dentists is crucial for patients affected by these injuries.This study aimed to evaluate the impact of dentoalveolar trauma management training on improving physicians' and dentists’ knowledge in different emergency wards in Mashhad, Iran. Methods: In this educational interventional study, a total number of 60 residents and interns selected from the following categories: maxillofacial surgery residents, emergency medicine residents, ear-nose-throat (ENT) residents, and medical interns were included, who were randomly selected. We gathered information using a valid and reliable questionnaire. Afterward, we provided the participants with booklets about dental traumas. By passing one month, the above-mentioned questionnaire was used to re-evaluate the target groups’ knowledge. The results were statistically analyzed using Chi-square, One-way ANOVA and paired sample T-test with statistically significant differences defined for p < 0.05. Results: Prior to the training, the interns had the lowest knowledge, while the maxillofacial surgery residents had the highest level of knowledge in comparison to interns, ENT residents, and emergency medicine residents, respectively (p < 0.001). After completing the course, the maxillofacial surgery residents once again represented the highest knowledge, followed by emergency medicine residents, ENT residents, and medical interns, respectively. A statistically significant difference was noticed in pre- and post-course knowledge evaluation. Conclusion: A comparison of the results before and after the training course demonstrates a significant lack of knowledge on dentoalveolar traumas among physicians and also reveals that providing this education is necessary because it significantly increases their knowledge in this regard.