Evaluation of the knowledge of first- and second-year medical and dental students regarding dental trauma (avulsion) and treatment approaches

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the knowledge level of first- and second-year students of Dicle University Medical and Dental Faculties regarding dental trauma (avulsion) and treatment approaches. STUDY DESIGN: A total of 300 volunteers were recruited with the random sampling method from first- and second-year students of Dicle University Medical and Dental Faculties in the 2018-2019 academic year. Data were collected using a single data collection form comprising 17 items. The responses were calculated as percentages, and data evaluation was performed using Pearson's chi(2), Yates' chi(2), and Fisher's exact tests. RESULTS: The results of the study showed that a significant proportion of the students had not received any training related to dental injuries. The vast majority of the students did not have sufficient knowledge on the subject of the need for emergent replacement of an avulsed tooth. It was determined that the respondents did not know what required attention when cleaning an avulsed tooth. It was reported by 74.4% of the students that an avulsed tooth could not be put back in place. While faculty and year of study variables affected some responses, gender did not have any effect. CONCLUSION: The students were evaluated as not having sufficient first aid knowledge of tooth avulsion and emergency treatment procedures. It can be recommended that traumatic tooth injuries be included in the subjects of general first aid knowledge.