Dentin hypersensitivity and toothache among patients diagnosed with Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of dentin hypersensitivity (DH) and toothache in patients with Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH); and evaluate whether patients with MIH have greater likelihood of presenting DH/toothache than controls.

Data: Studies evaluating DH/toothache in patients with MIH were included. Studies focusing on other enamel defects were excluded.

Sources: Eight databases, including grey literature, were searched in January 2024.

Study selection: The methodological quality of studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for Cross-sectional studies. Proportion and association meta-analyses, subgrouped by diagnostic methods, were conducted. The certainty of evidence was assessed using GRADE approach.

Results: Fifteen studies were included in the qualitative analysis and fourteen in the meta-analyses. Two studies fulfilled all items of the methodological quality checklist. The overall prevalence of DH/toothache among patients with MIH was 45 %. Prevalence rates of 30 %, 47 %, and 55 % were estimated based on proxy reports, self-reports, and air stimulation, respectively. The overall prevalence of DH/toothache per tooth was 22 %, ranging from 16 % to 29 % according to the diagnostic method. Patients with MIH demonstrated higher likelihood of presenting proxy reports of DH/toothache compared to those without MIH (OR: 1.51, 95 % CI [1.23-1.85], P < 0.01, I²: 0 %). The certainty of evidence was very low, mainly due to the low methodological quality of included studies and high inconsistency.

Conclusions: The global prevalence of DH/toothache was 22 %, per tooth, and 45 % per patient. Estimates vary according to diagnostic methods. Patients with MIH showed higher likelihood of presenting proxy reports of DH/toothache than controls.

Clinical significance: This systematic review contributes valuable information to the dental literature by assessing the prevalence and associated factors of DH/toothache in patients with MIH. The findings can guide future research, inform clinical practices and public policy makers, and ultimately improve the management of oral health of patients with MIH.

Registration: PROSPERO CRD42023432805.