# Psychomotor Development and Traumatic Dental Injuries in Preschool

## TL;DR

This study found that preschool children with delayed motor development and obesity are more likely to experience traumatic dental injuries.

## Contribution

The study establishes a novel association between psychomotor development and traumatic dental injuries in preschool children.

## Key findings

- The prevalence of traumatic dental injuries in preschool children was 50.3%.
- Delayed motor development was significantly associated with traumatic dental injuries (PR = 1.66).
- Obesity was also significantly associated with traumatic dental injuries (PR = 1.64).

## Abstract

Insufficient motor coordination can predispose children to falls and, consequently, the occurrence of traumatic dental injuries (TDIs). The present study investigated the association between psychomotor development and TDI in preschool children.

A cross‐sectional study was conducted with 189 children aged three to six years in Diamantina, Brazil. Psychomotor development was assessed using the Test of Gross Motor Development—Second Edition (motor assessment) and a validated preschool version of the Mini‐Mental State Examination (cognitive assessment). Parents/guardians answered a socioeconomic questionnaire. Anthropometric measures were determined using WHO growth curves to obtain the body mass index (BMI). Intraoral examinations were performed by a single examiner trained and calibrated for diagnosing TDI based on the criteria proposed by Andreasen, with radiographic evaluations conducted when necessary. Lip coverage, anterior open bite, arch shape, and overjet were also recorded. Descriptive statistics, the chi‐square test, and Poisson regression (bivariate and multivariate) analyses were performed (95% CI, p < 0.05).

The prevalence of TDI was 50.3%. Delayed motor development (PR = 1.66; 95% CI: 1.25–2.22) and obesity (PR = 1.64; 95% CI: 1.10–2.45) were significantly associated with TDI in the adjusted model.

Delayed motor development and obesity were associated with TDI in preschool children.