PREVALENCE OF SPORT-RELATED DENTAL INJURIES IN CHILDREN SPORT CENTERS AND THE AWARENESS OF COACHES TOWARD ITS MANAGEMENT, RIYADH, KSA.
Abstract
This study investigates the prevalence of sport-related dental injuries and the awareness of coaches regarding the management of dental trauma in children's sports centres in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Through a cross-sectional design, questionnaires were distributed to both guardians and coaches at randomly selected sports centres that offer a variety of contact and non-contact sports. The study focused on children aged 7 to 14 years and evaluated the frequency of dental injuries, types of injuries, and the use of preventive measures such as mouthguards.
The results revealed that 6% of the children had experienced dental injuries during sports activities, with tooth fractures and displacements being the most common injuries. Notably, the study found a significant correlation between the duration of sports over five years were significantly more likely to experience dental trauma. Despite the evident risk, the participation and the likelihood of sustaining a dental injury; children who had been training for use of mouthguards was remarkably low, with only 5% of children consistently using them during training. Additionally, there was a significant delay in seeking dental care after an injury, with 40% of parents not consulting a dentist at all.
The findings underscore the need for increased awareness and preventive measures, particularly in promoting the use of mouthguards and ensuring timely dental care following injuries. The study contributes to the understanding of dental injury risks associated with prolonged sports participation and highlights gaps in the current preventive practices among young athletes in Riyadh. Recommendations include the implementation of educational campaigns targeting parents, coaches, and children to reduce the incidence of dental injuries and promote better management practices.