Dental Rehabilitation Improves Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Children with Molar-Incisor Hypomineralisation: A 12-Month Prospective Controlled Study

Abstract

Background/Objectives: This study aims to compare the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of children with molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) and their parents with that of an age- and caries-matched control group, and to evaluate the long-term impact of dental rehabilitation on OHRQoL. Methods: A total of 30 children aged 8–12 years were included, with 15 participants in the MIH group and 15 in the control group. OHRQoL was assessed using the Pediatric Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (POQL) scale. Data were obtained at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment. Statistical analyses included a chi-square test, independent samples t-test, Mann–Whitney U test and Friedman test, according to data distribution. Results: Baseline POQL scores were significantly higher in the MIH group compared with the control group for both children and parents (p = 0.020 and p = 0.036, respectively). Among subscales, emotional functioning scores in children and role and physical functioning scores in parents were significantly higher in the MIH group (p = 0.027 and p = 0.032, respectively). Following dental rehabilitation, POQL scores significantly decreased in both groups (p < 0.001), and this improvement was maintained throughout the 12-month follow-up period. Conclusions: MIH has a negative impact on the OHRQoL of both children and parents, regardless of caries experience. Comprehensive dental rehabilitation results in significant and sustained improvements in OHRQoL, indicating the importance of early and comprehensive management in children with MIH.