Level of knowledge and attitude of early childhood and primary education teachers regarding the management of dental trauma

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the level of knowledge of early childhood and primary education teachers about the management and attitude toward dental trauma in children. Material and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out using questionnaires sent to schools in San Sebastián, Spain, to be answered by early childhood and primary education teachers between May and November 2023. The anonymous questionnaire was sent via Google Forms and consisted of three sections that included questions on demographics, history, and knowledge of dental trauma and its management. The statistical analysis of the variables was performed using the Fisher test, and the significance level was 5%. Results: A total sample of 83 teachers were included; 90% of the sample were women between 20 and 29 years old, without children, in primary school, and with less than 5 years of experience. No statistically significant differences (p>0.05) were observed in the relationship between gender, having previously taken first aid courses, or having witnessed a trauma previously about greater knowledge on the subject. On the other hand, older participants, with more years of experience and with children were those who had read or heard the most about the topic and had a higher level of knowledge. Conclusions: Teachers' knowledge and management of dental trauma is limited. There is a relationship between age, years of professional experience, and having children with better knowledge and attitudes.