Knowledge and Practice of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization among Dental Professionals in Najran Province, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and practice of molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) among dental professionals in Najran Province, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional, web-based survey was conducted on 150 participants comprising two groups: 33 final-year dental students and interns, and 117 dental professionals, including general practitioners (GPs) and specialists. This questionnaire was distributed via Google Forms and it was composed of 27-item closed-ended questionnaire comprising 5 demographic questions, 13 knowledge questions, and 9 clinical practice questions. Responses were summarized as counts and percentages; group differences were tested with Chi-square test, and p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Of the 150 dental professionals invited, 126 completed the survey, yielding an 84.0% response rate. Specialists demonstrated significantly higher mean knowledge and practice scores 51 (40.5%) than students and GPs (p < 0.001). The majority of participants (111/126, 88.1%) reported that they could recognize clinical signs of MIH, while 51/126 (40.5%) reported knowing how to apply diagnostic criteria. A total of 96 participants (76.2%) considered MIH a significant public health problem after dental caries; 90/126 (71.4%) identified genetics as a major etiologic factor. Reported barriers to MIH management included child behavior (54/126, 42.9%) and insufficient clinical training (45/126, 35.7%). Conclusion: Most respondents recognized the clinical signs of MIH, but fewer were confident in applying diagnostic criteria. Specialists demonstrated significantly higher knowledge and practice scores than students and GPs. Clinical significance: There is a need to improve diagnostic confidence and training for MIH among dental practitioners in Najran Province to reduce enamel breakdown and enhance restorative outcomes. The findings support targeted education and MIH training in curricula, which can lead to earlier detection of MIH and better long-term oral health for affected children.