Projects
025 – Qualitative study exploring general dental practitioners’ views of Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation (MIH) and its management in UK and Australia
- Chief Investigator A: Dr Mihiri Silva
- Chief Investigator B: Dr Greig Taylor
- Associate Investigator: Dr Rachel Osborne
Introduction
Molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) was first defined as a distinct clinical entity in 2001. MIH is a common dental condition leading to qualitative enamel defects that presents in childhood as a result of abnormal development of the teeth. Areas of well demarcated hypomineralised enamel affect one or more first permanent molar teeth. The affected enamel is porous and weakened leading to increased susceptibility to caries, sensitivity and post-eruptive breakdown on eruption and exposure to masticatory forces. The condition can also cause opacities/ discolouration, sensitivity and less commonly structural loss on anterior teeth.
Aims
To explore knowledge and attitudes of general dental practitioners in the UK and Australia regarding their views and experiences of managing MIH), compare findings and determine challenges and barriers to care and treatment planning from a general dental practitioners’ point of view from two different countries.
Rationale
Children with MIH affected teeth can be impacted both functionally, aesthetically and psychosocially. Management of this condition presents several challenges to the dental team as there is limited evidence to support whether to restore or extract these teeth. MIH clinical guidelines have been published by expert groups such as European association of paediatric dentistry (EAPD). However, management of the condition is thought to vary considerably both within and between countries. Societal, cultural and health service factors are thought to impact treatment approaches in different settings and locations.
Methodology
Qualitative research methodology will be used to gain insight into the perceptions, attitudes, experiences and beliefs of dental practitioners’ management of MIH in children, particularly the associated barriers and anticipated challenges of applying evidence-based management tools in clinical practice.
The semi-structured interviews will be undertaken with primary care dentists: general dentists from UK; and private and public dentists in Australia (minimum 10 from each country with a breadth of demographics).
What are the expected outcomes?
It is anticipated this project will:
- Inform the delivery of undergraduate, postgraduate and continuing professional development training on MIH management
- Advise and assist in the regional commissioning of dental services.
