Insights from a Study Conducted in England
The increasing popularity of electric scooters as a form of urban transportation has brought with it a notable rise in facial and craniofacial trauma cases, many of which are now being seen in dental and maxillofacial clinics around the world.
While these scooters are often perceived as harmless or recreational, recent clinical data highlights their potential for causing complex injuries—particularly when used without protective equipment.
A study conducted in England analyzed injury patterns related to e-scooter accidents and revealed alarming statistics.
The image provided illustrates the frequency and distribution of both bony and soft tissue injuries to the face and head.
This information is crucial for oral and maxillofacial surgeons, emergency dentists, and public health authorities.
Key Findings
🦴 Bony Structures Affected (Left Side of the Image)
✔ Orbit: 28%
✔ Nasal bones: 22.6%
✔ Dental structures: 13.5%
✔ Mandible: 1.7%
✔ Le Fort fractures & Maxillary sinus: 2.5% combined
✔ Zygomatic arch & Frontal bone: ~1% each
👄 Soft Tissue Injuries (Right Side of the Image)
✔ Peri-orbital area: 19.4%
✔ Lips: 15.5%
✔ Forehead: 14%
✔ Chin & cheek: 9% and 8.5% respectively
✔ Scalp: 8.5%
✔ Nose: 6.2%
✔ Intra-oral lacerations: 0.8%
✔ Unspecified facial/head injuries: 15.5%
Why This Matters for Dental Professionals
E-scooter-related injuries frequently involve the oral cavity, dental arches, and surrounding bone structures.
The risk of dentoalveolar trauma, avulsed teeth, alveolar bone fractures, and soft tissue lacerations is significant.
These cases often require immediate stabilization, imaging, and interdisciplinary treatment—including restorative dentistry, surgery, and long-term rehabilitation.
Professional Implications
Dental professionals must stay prepared to manage trauma cases efficiently, especially as these incidents rise globally.
Knowledge of trauma zones, impact frequency, and timely intervention protocols is essential for preserving both function and aesthetics in injured patients.
* As oral health experts, we must also advocate for preventive strategies—such as promoting the use of full-face helmets and raising awareness about the potential risks of riding e-scooters without protection.
- Let's raise awareness within our professional community.
Feel free to share this data and help educate patients and policymakers alike.
