Enhancing dental trauma management: insights into physical education graduates' knowledge and performance

Abstract

Introduction Injuries sustained during physical activities are a common concern among athletes, with dental trauma representing a significant yet often under-addressed component. Timely and appropriate intervention is critical to successful outcomes, making the awareness and performance of first-line responders-particularly physical education graduates-an essential focus. This study evaluates their knowledge and practices regarding emergency management of dental trauma. Materials and methods This cross-sectional descriptive study assessed 206 physical education graduates in Isfahan between 2024 and 2025. Data were collected using a researcher-designed questionnaire comprising 12 targeted items, validated with a content validity ratio (CVR> 0.51) and confirmed reliability (ICC= 0.884). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (Version 26), including descriptive measures (mean, standard deviation, frequency) and inferential tests (independent t-tests, ANOVA). Results Participants demonstrated moderate proficiency in dental trauma awareness and self-reported practical knowledge, with an overall mean score of 9.74 +/- 4.80 (scale: 0-20). Awareness and performance scores were closely aligned (9.08 +/- 4.99 and 9.07 +/- 5.39, respectively). Significant predictors of higher competency included academic achievement (P = 0.023), direct exposure to dental trauma (P = 0.001), engagement in high-contact sports such as martial arts (P = 0.016), and formal training in trauma management (P = 0.012). Conversely, gender, general athletic history, and school-level sports involvement were not statistically associated with performance outcomes. Conclusion Most PE graduates demonstrated limited preparedness for managing dental trauma. Academic progression, trauma exposure, and targeted training were associated with better awareness and applied knowledge. These findings support the integration of oral emergency response modules into sports education curricula and certification programs-promoting health literacy and alignment with WHO health promotion objectives.