Zusammenfassung

Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the occurrence of dental injuries among kabaddi players, the level of knowledge of the participants about preventive measures and management of dental trauma. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out, among 100 players aged 16–25 years. A structured interviewer-guided questionnaire was used to determine the prevalence of oral injuries sustained during sports activities, the use of mouthguard and the athlete's awareness regarding the use of mouthguard. Results: The respondents consisted of males (84%) and females (16%) with a mean age of 18.5 years. Out of the total participants, 29% had chipping or fracture of teeth, 100% had soft-tissue laceration, 12% had avulsion of teeth, and 30% had suffered fracture of jaw/bones. Nearly 5% knew that it was possible to replant the teeth. 83% did not know what is the best time to put the teeth back in the mouth, 91% answered that they would carry avulsed tooth in water, 3% wrapped in cloth, and 6% answered others. Nearly 42% were aware that mouthguards prevent injury. Nearly 3% used mouthguards. Conclusion: Level of awareness and knowledge about sports-related orofacial injury are very poor among kabaddi players in Madurai. Education on the prevention of orofacial trauma should be given to the coaches and players. Wearing of mouthguards during sports activity should be compulsory during practice and competition events.