Comparison of Fear of Dentistry between Children with Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization and Children with Permanent First Molars without Hypoplasia

Abstract

Background: Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a developmental enamel defect of the incisor and molars that can lead to fear of dentistry in children. This study aimed to compare the dental fear of children aged 8 to 12 years with MIH and children with permanent first molars without hypoplasia in 2020 in Isfahan, Iran. Methods: In this descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study, the participants included 200 students aged 8-12 years old in Isfahan, who were randomly selected from the second to sixth- grade students referred to the clinics. The examination was performed by a dentistry intern using a disposable dental mirror and dental probe on the unit. Fifty-two children with MIH and 148 children with permanent first molars without hypoplasia were enrolled. The Dental Subscale of the Children’s Fear Survey Schedule ( CFSS-DS ) questionnaire was used to collect information, which includes two sections: demographic information and 15 questions on different areas of fear of dental treatment in children. Data were analysed through SPSS 20 software and using descriptive-statistical tests (frequency and percentage, mean), t test, chi-square test, and logistic regression test. P < 0.05 was defined as a statistically significant level. Results: The mean score of dental fear was 15 ± 35 (ranged from 15 to 75) which indicated moderate level of dental fear in the participating children. In whole, 62.5% of children were afraid of dentistry. The rate of dental fear in girls was 9 times higher than in boys ( P < 0.05). Also, the rate of dental fear in children with MIH was 46 times higher than in children who did not have this disorder ( P < 0.05). The frequency of dental fear in children with severe disorders was significantly higher than in children with mild defects ( P = 0.000). There was no statistically significant difference in terms of dental fear among different age groups ( P = 0.313). Also, with increasing the number of dental visits, dental fear increased by 1.2 times ( P < 0.05), which was statistically significant. Conclusion: Fear of dentistry in children with MIH was significantly higher than in children with molar teeth without hypoplasia.