Kuwaiti parents' knowledge of first-aid measures of avulsion and replantation of teeth

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge level of emergency measures for tooth avulsion among Kuwaiti parents. Subjects and Methods: Sixty-three parents completed an Arabic language questionnaire about their first-aid knowledge. The following fields of knowledge were assessed: general body injury treatment principles, tooth avulsion and replantation principles, avulsed permanent/primary teeth, cleaning of an avulsed tooth before replantation, extra-alveolar time and storage media. For each category, a score ranging from 0 to 3 was possible. Results: Experience of first-aid information or training was seen in 12 (19%) except for dental injuries, which had not been included in such first-aid information. Knowledge was demonstrated in 52 (82%) about first aid of minor body injuries, yet the knowledge of how to manage avulsed teeth was poor, as 50-54 (79-86%) parents had no knowledge of how to manage an avulsed tooth in the specific modes of treatment measured. There was no difference in knowledge between mothers and fathers, young or old, nor was knowledge greater in parents with an academic education. Conclusion: First-aid knowledge in Kuwaiti parents is lacking for avulsion and replantation of teeth despite a high level of knowledge of how to manage simple body injuries. Knowledge of first-aid measures regarding avulsion and replantation of teeth should be increased by intervention programs. Copyright (C) 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel.