Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation: Care Pathways For Children In The UK

Objectives: Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation (MIH) is a common condition affecting children’s teeth with prevalence in different countries varying from 4-25%. In Northern England the overall prevalence of MIH was reported to be 16%. Children affected by MIH often need to undergo a significant amount of restorative treatment at an early age and may require extraction of their first permanent molars under local anaesthesia, sedation or general anaesthesia. The objectives of this multi-centre care pathway evaluation were: to survey the numbers of MIH children currently seen in different dental hospitals across the country and the source of referrals and to investigate the different care pathways these children move onto, following consultation in clinic.
Methods: The investigators approached paediatric dental departments within dental hospitals and community dental services in England, Scotland and Wales. An anonymous data collection form was designed and distributed to the participating departments. Data were collected during the first consultation appointment and information about demographics, referral source, clinical signs and symptoms and treatment plan was recorded for each new patient. Data were collected prospectively over a period of 15 weeks, between April and July 2015.
Results: Ten specialist paediatric dental departments agreed to participate in this study: eight in England, one in Scotland and one in Wales. Data were collected for 213 children, who had attended one of the participating units. The sample comprised of 123 girls and 90 boys, aged between 5 and 15 years. Clinical post-eruptive breakdown was recorded for 180 children. 64% of children had all four molars treated in some form. Treatment under general anaesthesia was planned for 75 children.
Conclusions: This study highlights the large number of children with MIH referred to specialist paediatric dental clinics across the UK and the extent of the impact of MIH on patients and the national health dental services.