Evaluation of patients who admit to emergency department with dental and gingival problems

Abstract

Introduction: The uncomplicated tooth and gum diseases are one of the most presentations of emergency departments. The objective of this study is to determine the demographic features of patients presented with tooth and gum complaints and the procedures applied to them. Material and Method: The data of 303 patients presented with tooth and gum complaints between July 2001 and September 2004 were collected from the medical records. The patients with nontraumatic dental problems under 15 years old were excluded from the study. The study form included the demographic features of patients, presentation day and time, ICD-10 codes and the treatments applied in the emergency department (ED).
Results: There were 303 patients presented with tooth and gum complaints to the ED during the study period. One hundred fifty five (51,2%) patients were male and the study subject had a mean age of 34±15 (min-max: 1-80), 166 (38,3%) patients were between 16-25 years old. According to the ICD-10 192 (63,4%) patients were diagnosed as gingivitis and periodontal disease. 148 (52%) patients took pain killer and 24 took antibiotics in the ED. 248 (82%) patients presented to the ED during the periods impossible to access a dentist.
Conclusion: Emergency departments are important places for patients suffering form tooth and gum disease. The diagnosis, if possible simple treatment and follow up of dental emergencies should be carried out in EDs. The medical care of patients with dental problems should be qualified better by a sufficient education of ED residents about dental emergencies.