Establishment and evaluation of a trauma clinic based in a primary care setting

Objectives. The aim of this study was to establish and evaluate a referral centre for the treatment of children with traumatized teeth in an area remote from a dental hospital. Setting. The study was conducted in a Community Dental Service clinic in Cheshire, UK. Methods. A dentist from the Cheshire Community Dental Service was trained in the treatment and management of traumatized teeth. Invite referrals to the trauma clinic in a health centre. The number and types of patients referred and treated at the trauma clinic were monitored. In addition, the parents of referred children and referring dentists were asked to comment on the acceptability of the service. Results. During the first 12 months, 49 patients with 74 traumatized teeth were referred to the trauma clinic. The majority of the patients were referred by their dentist because problems arose following their initial management. Both parents and referring dentists were very satisfied with the service. Conclusions. The trauma clinic fulfilled a clinical need, and was well received by the parents of children referred to the clinic and by the local dentists.