Prevalence and Impact of Oro‐Dental Trauma Among 13–18‐Year‐Old Contact Sportspersons in Lucknow, North India: A Mixed‐Methods Study

BACKGROUND: Oro-dental trauma (ODT) is a significant health concern among adolescents participating in contact sports due to frequent physical contact and increased risk of orofacial injuries. Despite the availability of preventive measures such as mouthguards, their utilization remains limited, particularly in developing countries. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and impact of ODT and to explore perceptions regarding mouthguard use among adolescent contact sportspersons in Lucknow, North India. METHODS: An explanatory mixed-methods study was conducted among 13-18-year-old contact sportspersons in four sports complexes in Lucknow, India. The quantitative phase involved a cross-sectional survey using the Universal Sports Dental Examination Protocol (USPDES) and the Adolescent Oro-Dental Trauma Impact Index (AODTII). Clinical examination assessed dental trauma, oral health status, and associated conditions. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews with purposively selected participants to explore perceptions and barriers related to mouthguard use. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, while qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: A total of 280 participants (mean age 14.78 ± 1.48 years) were included in the study. The prevalence of ODT was 28.9%, with uncomplicated crown fractures being the most common injury. A statistically significant association was observed between gender and ODT prevalence (p = 0.006), with higher prevalence among males. Mouthguard use was reported by only 10.4% of participants, and none used custom-fabricated devices. Although most participants reported less than significant impact on oral health-related quality of life, 11.1% demonstrated significant or highly significant impact. Qualitative findings revealed that discomfort, breathing difficulty, communication barriers, and limited professional guidance influenced mouthguard non-use. CONCLUSION: ODT prevalence among adolescent contact sportspersons in this North Indian setting is considerable, while preventive practices such as mouthguard use remain low. Strategies promoting accessible, well-fitted protective devices and increased collaboration between dental professionals, coaches, and sports organizations may help reduce sports-related dental injuries.