Knowledge, Perception, and Clinical Experiences on Molar Incisor Hypomineralization Amongst Dental Professionals: A...

Background: Molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a common developmental enamel defect that presents important diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in pediatric dentistry. Differences in dental professionals' knowledge and clinical confidence may affect patient care. Aim: To evaluate dental professionals' awareness, diagnostic confidence, clinical management, referral practices, and training related to MIH. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed to calculate pooled estimates, with subgroup analyses by geographic region, dental specialty, and risk of bias. Results: Thirty-six observational studies including over 10,000 dental professionals were included. Awareness of MIH diagnostic criteria was moderate (72.1%) and higher among pediatric dentists than general dental practitioners. Diagnostic confidence (67.5%) and comfort in providing treatment (64.1%) were suboptimal, particularly among non-specialists. Most respondents perceived a distinct caries pattern in MIH-affected teeth (84.8%), while referral to pediatric dentists was inconsistent (52.5%). Approximately 80% of participants reported a need for additional MIH-related training. Substantial heterogeneity was observed across analyses. Conclusions: Despite moderate awareness of MIH, important gaps persist in diagnostic confidence, clinical management, and referral practices. Strengthening undergraduate education, continuing professional development, and structured referral pathways is essential to improve early diagnosis, appropriate management, and outcomes for children affected by MIH, highlighting the pivotal role of paediatric dentists in interdisciplinary care.