Management of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization Under the Brazilian Unified Health System

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.