Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of traumatic dental injuries in pediatric patients aged 0–14 years: a retrospective study

Background: This study investigated the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) in children, focusing on etiology, injury type, treatment, prognosis, and follow-up compliance to inform preventive and therapeutic strategies. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted using records of 138 pediatric patients aged 0–14 years who presented with TDIs to the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at Mersin University between March 2024 and March 2025. Patient-and tooth-related variables were examined. Results: TDIs occurred most frequently among 8-year-olds (16.7%). Falls were the most common cause (58.0%), and maxillary incisors were the most affected teeth (tooth 21: 39.2%; tooth 11: 32.2%). The most frequent treatment was repositioning, splinting, and pulpectomy (25.1%), followed by restoration (24.2%). At follow-up, 91.6% of traumatized teeth survived, while 3.5%required additional treatment. Conclusions: TDIs are a significant pediatric public health issue. Falls are the leading cause, and maxillary incisors are the most often injured. Early treatment and regular follow-ups improve outcomes; however, timely presentation remains low. Raising public awareness, educating parents and caregivers, and enhancing emergency access to pediatric dental care may improve prognosis and reduce TDI burden.

Traumatic dental injury; Pediatric patients; Retrospective analysis

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