Exploring Dental Trauma Among Cattle Farmers in Vadodara, Gujarat: Prevalence and Risk Factors.

Abstract

Background: Traumatic dental injuries (TDI) are a global health concern, affecting millions of people annually. The prevalence of traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) can vary significantly with change in geographic region, occupation, and lifestyle. Animal handlers, such as cattle farmers, are at risk of experiencing TDIs due to their interactions with animals. However, there have been no previous studies investigating the prevalence of TDI among cattle farmers.

Aim: To determine the prevalence and associated risk of TDI among cattle farmers in Vadodara City, Gujarat, India.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among cattle farmers residing in Vadodara City. Purposive snowball sampling was used to recruit the cattle farmers. A questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic variables, animal handling practices, experience, history of trauma. Clinical examination was carried out to screen for TDI and possible risk factors.

Results: A total of 357 cattle farmers participated in the study. The prevalence of TDI among cattle farmers was 7.8%. All the respondents reported some form of soft tissue injury (100%). Luxation (60.71%) was the most frequent dental injury, followed by tooth fracture (57.14%). Maxillary incisors were the most commonly affected teeth (75.61%). Kicking (39%) and head-butting (43%) were the most frequent causes of injury. Increased overjet, inadequate lip coverage, and Class II molar relationship were associated with a higher risk of TDI.

Conclusion: Prevalence of TDI among cattle farmers was found to be 7.8%. Since the cattle farmers are inherently at risk for TDI as occupational hazard, preventing dental trauma-related injuries in cattle farmers is crucial.