Subjective aspects of patients with traumatized teeth. A 15-year follow-up study.

The aim of this study was to obtain detailed information about adults who suffered trauma to the teeth as children. A total of 102 patients took part. The patients answered a questionnaire and were interviewed before the oral examination. Thirty-nine per cent of the patients reported dissatisfaction either with the color and/or anatomic form of the traumatized teeth or reconstruction. Most of the individuals did not remember having received any information about prognosis for the traumatized teeth. Twenty-one per cent of the patients remembered pain during treatment, and 25% remembered only the behavior and attitudes of the dental team. It can be concluded that all dental treatment in children with traumatized teeth must be carried out as painlessly as possible, and the dental team should minimize discomfort during the treatment. Good knowledge about traumatology and management can reduce stress and anxiety for both the patient and the dental team.