Romanian Dentists’ Perceptions on Molar Incisor Hypomineralization—A Questionnaire-Based Study

TL;DR

Romanian dentists frequently encounter Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) and recognize its impact, but there is a strong desire for more education and awareness about managing this condition.

Contribution

This study provides insights into Romanian dentists' perceptions and clinical approaches to MIH, highlighting the need for targeted educational initiatives.

Findings

86.76% of Romanian dentists have encountered MIH cases in their practice.

Adhesive restorations are the preferred treatment approach for MIH, with notable differences across dental specialties.

98.63% of participants expressed a desire for more information about MIH, indicating high awareness and concern.

Abstract

Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) is a common dental condition that affects the mineralization of the enamel, primarily affecting the first permanent molars and often the incisors. This condition can lead to a wide range of clinical presentations, from mild opacities to severe post-eruptive breakdown, which can significantly impact a child’s oral health and quality of life. Background/Objectives: The prevalence and complex management of MIH have posed a significant challenge for dental practitioners. Our preceding investigation found that 14.3% of school-aged children have MIH. Based on this finding, we wanted to understand what other Romanian dental professionals think about this condition. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to assess the awareness, perception, and clinical management approaches of Romanian dentists toward MIH in order to inform future educational strategies and contribute to the development of dedicated preventive programs. Methods: To gain a comprehensive understanding of MIH in actual clinical settings, we developed and administered a questionnaire consisting of three distinct sections. Our objective was to capture the collective knowledge and perspectives of dental practitioners. We distributed the survey, which included 14 pertinent questions, to a large professional group of Romanian dentists. Results: This study collected responses from 219 Romanian dental practitioners (median age: 34 years) about their experiences with MIH. The vast majority (86.76%) had encountered MIH cases in their practice, with half reporting moderate prevalence among their patients. The most frequently observed complications were hypersensitivity (41.95%), pulp exposure (33.33%), and failed restorations (24.71%). While adhesive restorations were identified as the overall preferred treatment approach (70.00%), notable differences emerged in both clinical complications encountered and therapeutic approaches implemented across dental specialties. There was near-unanimous agreement on the importance of early MIH diagnosis (99.09%), and almost all participants (98.63%) expressed a desire for more information about this condition, demonstrating high awareness and concern about MIH among Romanian dental professionals. Conclusions: This study highlights that general dentists, endodontists, and pedodontists encounter MIH patients frequently in their practice, emphasizing the critical need to enhance awareness and education about MIH among both dental professionals and the general public.

Figures