The prevalence of dental, facial and head injuries sustained by schoolboy rugby players. A pilot study

Jagger, R.G., Abbasbhai, A., Patel, D., Jagger, D.C. and Griffiths, A. (2010) The prevalence of dental, facial and head injuries sustained by schoolboy rugby players. A pilot study. Primary Dental Care, 17(3), pp. 143-146. (doi: 10.1308/135576110791654793)

Full text not currently available from Enlighten.

Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1308/135576110791654793

Abstract

<b>Aim:</b> The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of dental, orofacial and head injuries and of mouthguard use among schoolboy rugby players. <b>Materials and methods:</b> All members of the first and second XV rugby squads at three secondary schools (two in England and one in Australia) were included in the study. All participants answered a questionnaire that sought information regarding dental, orofacial and head injuries. Statistical differences between groups were determined using chi-square tests for categorical variables and Kruskal-Wallis tests for discrete (count) variables. <b>Results:</b> One hundred and seventy-eight completed questionnaires were returned (100% response rate). One hundred and twenty-five (70%) players reported having sustained at least one injury (range 1-4). Facial injuries were common. Dental injuries were the most prevalent injury: 46 (26%) were reported. Fractured teeth were reported by 20 (11%) players, and avulsed teeth by 7 (4%). There was evidence of a difference between schools in the prevalence of injured players (P=0.014), but among those reporting injuries, there was no difference between schools in the number of injuries (P=0.95). All players said that they used a mouthguard regularly. <b>Conclusions:</b> Dental, orofacial and head injuries were commonly reported. Dental injuries were the most prevalent type of injury. All players used mouthguards regularly.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Jagger, Professor Daryll
Authors: Jagger, R.G., Abbasbhai, A., Patel, D., Jagger, D.C., and Griffiths, A.
Subjects:R Medicine > RK Dentistry
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Dental School
Journal Name:Primary Dental Care
ISSN:1741-9344

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record