Orthodontic treatment recommendation and expected adverse reactions in patients with a history of dental trauma: A survey among general dentists, paediatric dentists, and orthodontic specialists.

BACKGROUND: Trauma-induced adverse reactions may trigger complications when moving teeth orthodontically. AIM: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the knowledge of dental practitioners about this topic. DESIGN: A questionnaire survey was organized among general dentists, paediatric dentists, and orthodontists in Flanders (Belgium). Three clinical cases describing trauma-induced tooth damage (tooth ankylosis, apical root resorption, and pulp/root canal obliteration) were presented, followed by a set of questions. RESULTS: The questionnaire was completed by 121 general dentists (GD), 47 paediatric dentists (PD), and 99 orthodontic specialists (OS). In the case with ankylosis, impossibility to move the tooth orthodontically was reported as most frequent adverse reaction (82.8% of GD, 95.7% of PD, and 100.0% of OS) (P < .001). In the situation of apical root resorption, the most frequently reported adverse event was progressive apical root resorption (78.9%, 85.7%, and 88.8% respectively; P = .265). Most frequently mentioned adverse reaction in the case with pulp and root canal obliteration was tooth discoloration (64.1%, 57.1%, and 78.3%; P = .055), followed by apical root resorption (57.4%, 56.8%, and 68.7%; P = .283). Orthodontic treatment recommendation differed among specific clinical situations but also among groups of dental practitioners. CONCLUSIONS: Important knowledge gaps exist regarding the orthodontic managment of traumatized teeth. This topic requires more attention in undergraduate training, specialist training, and continuing education.

Knowledge of orthodontic treatment approach of traumatized teeth by a group of Belgian general dentists, pediatric dentists, and orthodontists.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Traumatized teeth are more susceptible to complications during orthodontic tooth movement. The aim of this study was to explore current practices among Belgian dental practitioners regarding orthodontic treatment of children with a history of dental trauma. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A questionnaire survey was organized among general dentists, pediatric dentists, and orthodontists in Flanders (Belgium). Questionnaires were distributed at the occasions of annual meetings or symposia. They consisted of questions regarding exposure to dental trauma and orthodontic treatment approach for patients with a dental trauma history. RESULTS: The questionnaire was completed by 121 general dentists, 47 pediatric dentists, and 99 orthodontists. A history of dental trauma influenced referral for orthodontic treatment by general dentists and pediatric dentists moderately (median VAS scores of 5 and 6, respectively, on a scale of 0 (not at all) to 10 (utmost)), indicating uncertainty and doubt. Additional checkups during tooth movement were usually not organized by general dentists in 33.6% and by pediatric dentists in 19.1% of cases (P = 0.006). One-third of the orthodontists (33.3%) experienced tooth loss linked to orthodontic movement of a tooth with dental trauma history in at least one patient. Only a minority of the practitioners knew of the existence of specific guidelines (7.6%, 15.6% and 22.7%, respectively, of general dentists, pediatric dentists, and orthodontists) (P = 0.007). The Dental Trauma Guide was the guideline mentioned most frequently, although this tool does not contain recommendations regarding orthodontic treatment after trauma. CONCLUSION: In the group of Belgian general dental, pediatric and orthodontists surveyed, there was uncertainty regarding the orthodontic management of patients with a history of dental trauma especially among general practitioners. Further educational training is recommended.