The prognosis of
replantation of an
avulsed tooth is determined by which
first-aid measures are taken during the first 15 min after avulsion. Knowledge of the correct
first-aid measures is therefore crucial to successful
replantation. The aims of this study were (i) to assess the present knowledge level of emergency measures for
tooth avulsion in Kuwaiti schoolchildren, and (ii) to design and test an interview form with structured standardized questions. A total of 221 Kuwaiti schoolchildren (aged 7-15 years old) were interviewed by professionals using a standardized method to score several areas of knowledge about
tooth avulsion and
replantation. Earlier experience of
first-aid information and subjection to dental
trauma was registered. The following fields of knowledge were assessed: general body injury treatment principles,
tooth avulsion and
replantation principles, avulsed permanent/primary teeth, cleaning of
avulsed tooth before
replantation, extra alveolar time and storage media. The form for interviewing children proved to be sufficiently structured in performing the interviews and data management. The results of the interviews showed that 30.3% of the children had been exposed to dental
trauma in the past. Among children 7-9 years of age, 25% had received information on general
first aid as compared with 75% in children 10 years and older. Children 10 years and older, in general, had a high knowledge level of general principles of how to manage
injuries to the body. Regardless of age group, there were generally a low knowledge level regarding
tooth avulsion,
replantation, extra-alveolar time and storage media. We conclude that
first-aid knowledge in Kuwaiti schoolchildren is low on avulsion and
replantation of teeth despite a high knowledge level of body
injuries. The knowledge level of
first-aid measures on avulsion and
replantation of teeth could be increased through intervention programs.