Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Parents Regarding Emergency Management of Pediatric Dental and Maxillo-Facial Injuries in Misrata, Libya

Abstract

Parents and caregivers are typically the first responders when children experience oral or maxillofacial injuries. Their knowledge of appropriate first-aid measures can significantly influence the prognosis of traumatic dental injuries, particularly tooth avulsion, where immediate management is essential. Objective: This study aimed to assess parents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the emergency management of pediatric oral, facial, and dental injuries in Misrata, Libya, and to identify factors associated with better knowledge. A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among 164 parents using a structured online survey. The questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics, knowledge of emergency management of dental and maxillofacial injuries, attitudes toward prevention, and educational needs. Descriptive statistics, independent-samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, and Chi-square tests were used for data analysis, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. The mean knowledge score was 6.63 ± 2.1 out of 10. Overall, 39.0% of participants demonstrated good knowledge, 47.0% moderate knowledge, and 14.0% poor knowledge. Parents showed good awareness of tooth type according to age, soft-tissue injury management, and emergencies requiring immediate medical care. However, major deficiencies were identified in the emergency management of avulsed permanent teeth, particularly regarding immediate replantation and appropriate storage media. Parents who had previously received first-aid training achieved significantly higher knowledge scores than those without training (p = 0.001). Educational level, age, and gender were not significantly associated with knowledge. Most parents (82.7%) expressed interest in receiving educational programs, with short educational videos being the preferred learning method. Parents demonstrated moderate overall knowledge of pediatric dental trauma management, but clinically important gaps remain in the management of tooth avulsion. Targeted educational programs focusing on dental trauma first aid, particularly avulsion management, should be developed to improve parental preparedness and enhance outcomes for injured children.