The Financial Burden of Dental Treatment of Children with Molar Hypomineralization: Preliminary Findings

Purpose: To evaluate the burden of managing permanent first molars (PFMs) in children with molar hypomineralization (MH). Methods: Retrospective data on the cost of treatment of PFMs in children with MH in a university-based pediatric clinic were collected. Data included demographics, health status, zip code, treatment type, number of visits, behavioral guidance (BG), and retreatment. The cost was calculated based on the billing codes for operative treatment and BG. Results: A total of 199 MH patient charts were included. The mean age was 8.07 years (±1.46 standard deviation). Over 25% had behavioral and medical conditions and lived more than 25 miles from the clinic. Operative treatment costs differed significantly by age (P<0.001). Male patients, patients travelling more than 25 miles, and patients with behavioral conditions had significantly higher BG and total treatment costs (P<0.05). Conclusion: Gender, distance from the clinic, and health status were related to higher treatment burden of permanent first molars in children with molar hypomineralization.