ANALYSIS OF STRATEGIES FOR PREVENTION AND CLINICAL MANAGEMENT OF DENTAL TRAUMA IN CHILDHOOD: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

This article analyzed the effectiveness of prevention and management strategies in the treatment of dental trauma in children. It was an integrative literature review, conducted by searching the PubMed and Virtual Health Library (VHL) databases for studies using the descriptors "dental trauma," "dental avulsion," and "pediatric dentistry," in addition to previously defined inclusion criteria. Twenty articles published between 2016 and 2026 were selected, including clinical studies, observational studies, and reviews, addressing aspects related to prevention, immediate management, and consequences of childhood dental trauma. The results showed that dental trauma occurred frequently in childhood, often associated with falls and accidents, with the upper incisors being the most affected. A low level of knowledge was also observed among the general population and some professionals regarding emergency management, especially in cases of dental avulsion, which compromised the prognosis. Among the main prevention strategies identified, educational actions aimed at parents, teachers, coaches, and healthcare professionals stood out, as well as encouraging the use of mouthguards and the early identification of risk factors. Regarding management, studies highlighted the importance of immediate care, reimplantation in cases of dental avulsion, proper storage of the avulsed tooth, continuous clinical and radiographic follow-up, and aesthetic and functional rehabilitative approaches. Furthermore, even with adequate interventions, long-term complications could occur, requiring continuous monitoring. It was concluded that the effectiveness of prevention and management strategies depended on the integration of health education, professional training, and the proper application of clinical protocols, which were fundamental for reducing the incidence and improving clinical outcomes in children.