Dental trauma in contact sports

ABSTRACT Objective Investigate the prevalence of dental traumas in participants of two contact sports (Judo and Taekwondo) and characterise some related factors. Methods Cross-sectional pilot study of observational nature, conducted by observing and collecting data and information. The sample consisted of 60 individuals of both genders aged between 5 and 15 years old, participants of Judo or Taekwondo. The statistical analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistical measures. Results The prevalence of dental trauma in the studied sample was of 38,3%, with the majority occurring outside the practice of sport (82,6%). Only 4 children suffered trauma whilst playing their sport, corresponding to a prevalence of 6,67%. In addition, all 4 cases pertained to the practice of Judo. The most affected teeth were the primary maxillary central incisors followed by the permanent maxillary central incisors, with only one injured tooth in most cases. The lips were the soft tissue with greatest number of registered traumatic lesions. A statistically significant relationship was observed between risk factors and the occurrence of trauma. Conclusion A high prevalence of dental trauma in the studied population was found. Despite no record of traumatic lesions in Taekwondo, this prevalence was particularly noticeable in Judo.