Key Points
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The wearing of cycle helmets not only reduces the incidence and severity of head and brain injuries and their long-term consequences, but also facial and some dental trauma.
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Previous assessments of helmet efficacy have focussed on mortality rates; morbidity rates, including the effects of maxillofacial and dental trauma, have been neglected.
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The dental profession could contribute significantly to promotional campaigns.
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There is scope for further research into modification of helmet design to improve facial and dental protection.
Abstract
Objectives To review the available literature regarding the: epidemiology of bicycle related head injuries; consequences of head injuries; rates of cycle helmet use; impact of educational campaigns and legislation on usage rates; effectiveness of cycle helmets in protecting against head and facial injuries; arguments against the compulsory use of bicycle helmets
Data sources A computerised Medline search was conducted using the keywords: head injury, facial injury, bicycle helmets, accidents.
Data selection All available information was considered.
Data synthesis Data was collated manually.
Conclusions The wearing of bicycle helmets contributes significantly to the prevention of head injuries (HI) and traumatic brain injury (TBI), particularly in children and adolescents.
There is evidence to support the role of cycle helmets in the prevention of injuries to the middle third of the face and some dental injuries. There is a case for the implementation of legislation accompanied by educational campaigns to increase significantly the use of cycle helmets.
The dental profession could: play an active role in promoting cycle helmet use; support calls for the compulsory wearing of cycling helmets, particularly for children; press for modification of helmet design and standards to increase protection of the face.
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Chapman, H., Curran, A. Bicycle helmets — does the dental profession have a role in promoting their use?. Br Dent J 196, 555–560 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.4811227
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.4811227
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