Orofacial injury in underserved minority populations.

The translation of clinical and epidemiological research findings into cliniical practice in the management of orofacial injuries at an inner-city community promises a reduction in the incidence and severity of orofacial injuries. This article reports on the sociodemographic characteristics, economical impact, nature of injuries, and associated risk factors of mandible fractures sustained in the inner-city community treated at KDMC. An overwhelmingly high incidence of intentional/assaultive injuries were treated at KDMC that contribute to the escalating cost of medical care provided at the public county hospital. Knowledge of associated risk factors and nature of injuries is fundamental to the development of a sound screening and interventional program tailored to the high-risk minority groups, to reduce the high burden of preventable orofacial injuries in this community. Multidisciplinary health professionals should recognize the relationship between alcohol and substance abuse and orofacial injuries and the subtle signs of domestic abuse. and should provide social support and counseling intervention to reduce risk of recurrent injuries in abused victims.