# Evaluation of Dental Fear and Dental Caries in Pediatric Patients with Molar Incisor Hypomineralization

## TL;DR

Children with molar incisor hypomineralization experience higher dental fear and more tooth decay compared to those without the condition.

## Contribution

This study establishes a link between molar incisor hypomineralization, dental caries, and dental fear in children.

## Key findings

- Children with MIH had significantly higher dental caries and fear scores than controls.
- Severe MIH was more common than mild MIH among the studied children.
- Dental caries experience was significantly higher in children with MIH compared to those without.

## Abstract

Children with molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) often experience dental hypersensitivity and discomfort during dental procedures. These factors can contribute to the dental fear and anxiety (DFA) in children with MIH. The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between MIH, dental caries, and fear.

In total, 122 children (MIH group=60; Control group=62) aged 8–12 were included in the study and examined. Caries and teeth affected by MIH were recorded. After the examination, The Children’s Fear Survey Schedule-Dental Subscale (CFSS-DS) was administered to each child.

The mean DMFT/dmft index, total CFSS-DS score, and presence of dental fear were statistically significantly higher in the MIH group than control group. The number of children with severe MIH was statistically significantly greater than those with mild MIH. No statistically significant differences were observed between children with mild and severe MIH in terms of mean DMFT/dmft index, CFSS-DS total score, or presence of fear.

A relationship was observed between MIH and DFA. Similarly, caries experience of children with MIH was statistically significantly higher than those without MIH.