Effects of traumatic dental injuries of the primary dentition to the developing permanent teeth: a retrospective cohort study of 14 years

Abstract

Abstract Objectives This retrospective cohort study aimed to determine the occurrence of sequelae in permanent teeth following trauma in primary dentition in children treated at a Dental Trauma Center in Brazil for 14 years. Material and Methods Records of 140 children, with complete information about trauma and presence of sequelae, were included. Photographs and radiographs of permanent successors were evaluated to determine presence of long-term complications. Chi-square tests and Poisson regression were used for data analyses (p ≤ 0.05). Results A total of 244 traumatized primary teeth were evaluated in 140 children, and 81 (33.2%) of the permanent successors presented sequelae, affecting 40% of the children. Enamel discoloration (53.1%) and enamel hypoplasia (28.4%) were the most prevalent sequelae presented and the occurrence of sequelae was higher following intrusive luxation (53.3%) and avulsion (39.4%). Risk of sequelae was higher for teeth with supporting tissue trauma (RR 2.68; 95% CI 1.32–5.42; P < 0.001) than for teeth with hard tissue trauma. Risk was lower when children had more than 4 years at the time of TDI (RR 0.41; 95%CI 0.25–0.66; P < 0.001). Conclusions Prevalence of sequalae in permanent teeth following trauma in primary dentition was high, especially in children with up to 2 years of age at the time of TDI and who suffered supporting tissue trauma. Clinical relevance: Findings reinforce the importance of long-term follow-up of dental trauma in primary dentition. Close monitoring and knowledge about the risk of sequelae to permanent teeth can help dentists determine prognosis after dental trauma and provide an appropriate treatment plan.