Management of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization Under the Brazilian Unified Health System
Thais Aguiar Gomes, Roberta Costa Jorge, Vera Mendes SovieroABSTRACT
Background
Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) is challenging for Pediatric Dentists.
Aim
To assess the perception and experience of dentists from the Brazilian Unified Health System (UHS) regarding clinical management of MIH.
Design
This cross‐sectional study was based on a questionnaire including sociodemographic data, perception and treatment decision, and continuing education. The questionnaire scores and independent variables were tested using Student's t ‐test, ANOVA, and Poisson regression.
Results
The sample comprised 304 dentists. Among available restorative options in the UHS setting, glass ionomer cement was the first choice for severe MIH (65.1% for case 1; 48.4% for case 2). When asked about their first choice when other options were available, indirect restorations (38.9%) and composite (37.2%) were the most preferred. Only 8.9% had used the Hall Technique, but 52% would use it if available. The scale of perception of MIH as a clinical problem resulted in 22.7 (SD = 5.12), being higher among pediatric dentists (PR: 1.23; 95% CI: 1.12–1.33; p < 0.001) and dentists working in the Mountain region of the state (PR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.001–1.179; p < 0.001).
Conclusion
UHS dentists frequently treat patients with MIH, acknowledge its clinical implications, and recognize it as a challenge within the UHS.