Traumatismo dentário em crianças de 12 anos de idade: estudo com inquéritos nacionais

Abstract

To evaluate the prevalence of dental trauma in 12-year-old children in Brazil using data from the SB Brasil 2010 and SB Brasil 2023 national surveys, and identify temporal and regional trends. Methods: An exploratory ecological study with secondary data from the SB Brasil 2010 and SB Brasil 2023 national epidemiological surveys, that analyzing on the occurrence of crown fractures and dental avulsions in permanent incisors. Evaluation criteria included signs of crown fracture and dental avulsion, following standardized protocol based on O'Brien Index, adapted according to WHO guidelines. Results: A significant reduction in the overall prevalence of dental trauma was observed between 2010 and 2023, from 20.5% to 13.66%. The "no trauma" category increased from 79.5% to 86.34%. Enamel fractures decreased from 16.5% to 8.47%, while enamel and dentin fractures reduced from 3.7% to 1.40%. The North region showed the greatest relative reduction, with enamel fractures declining from 21.8% to 8.56%. The introduction of the "treated fracture" category in the 2023 survey (3.38% nationally) indicates improved access to treatment. Conclusion: The data reveal a positive trend in reducing untreated dental trauma in 12-year-old children in Brazil, possibly related to improvements in oral health policies, preventive programs, and greater access to treatment. The maintenance of low prevalences of severe fractures and avulsions suggests effectiveness of implemented public health strategies. However, regional challenges persist that require targeted interventions and continuity of prevention and oral health education programs.