Frequency of dentoalveolar trauma in high-performance athletes: a systematic review in multi-sport events in Latin America

Abstract* Introduction Severe damage to teeth or the periodontium can significantly affect oral functions of athletes during sport games reducing their performance and participation. We aimed to determine the prevalence of dentoalveolar trauma in high-performance athlete participating in multi-sport events in Latin American countries. Methods A comprehensive search was performed between December 15–22, 2024 in 12 databases including following the PRISMA guidelines and Robvis for bias assessment. The inclusion criteria encompassed original articles, correspondences, scientific letters, prevalence studies, and studies on dentoalveolar trauma in athletes during multi-sport events in Latin America. Results The initial literature search yielded a total of 798 articles. The remaining articles underwent full-text review, leading to the inclusion of one article for analysis. The selected study was authored by Enrique Amy, a researcher from the University of Puerto Rico School of Medi-cine. Published in the Dental Traumatology Journal in 2005, the study aimed to investigate the incidence of dental and orofacial trauma among athletes participating in the Central American and Caribbean Games across six different editions. The main reasons for seeking dental care among the 279 athletes included mouthguard fabrication, resolution of acute dental and orofacial conditions, restorations, and dental evaluations. Detailed information on the specific injuries and sports associated with the athletes is provided, including 18 cases of treated acute dental conditions, which primarily occurred during sport-related activities and accounted for 6% of all dental consultations during the games. Conclusions This systematic review provides valuable insights into the prevalence of dentoalveolar trauma in high-performance athletes participating in multi-sport events in Latin America. The findings highlight the importance of preventive measures, such as mouthguard use, to mitigate the risk of dental and orofacial injuries in this population.