The role of resin infiltration treatment on tooth sensitivity and patient-parent satisfaction in children with anterior tooth hypomineralization or hypoplasia

Aim: Developmental enamel defects can negatively affect oral health-related quality of life in children by causing aesthetic concerns and dental hypersensitivity. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of resin infiltration treatment on dental sensitivity, oral health-related quality of life, and patient-parent satisfaction in children with anterior teeth affected by hypomineralization or hypoplasia. Materials and Methods: This prospective clinical study included 40 children aged 7–14 years with hypomineralization or hypoplasia detected in their anterior permanent teeth. Resin infiltration treatment was applied to all patients. Dental sensitivity was assessed before and after treatment using the Schiff Cold Air Sensitivity Scale (SCASS). Oral health-related quality of life was evaluated using the Pediatric Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (POQL) questionnaire, including both child and parent forms, with analysis of total and subscale scores. Post-treatment esthetic satisfaction levels were recorded based on child and parent reports. Results: A statistically significant reduction in SCASS scores was observed after treatment (mean pre-treatment score: 2.03; post-treatment score: 0.78; p<0.001), indicating a clinically evident decrease in dental sensitivity. A significant improvement in total POQL scores was detected (p=0.004). Additionally, physical function (p=0.006), social function (p=0.021), and emotional function (p=0.011) subscale scores showed statistically significant improvements. In subjective assessments, 45% of children reported being "very happy" and 30% "happy" with their dental appearance after treatment. The majority of parents reported satisfaction with both esthetic and functional outcomes. Conclusion: Resin infiltration is an effective minimally invasive treatment option for managing anterior enamel defects, providing not only esthetic improvement but also reducing dental sensitivity and improving oral health-related quality of life. These findings, supported by high levels of patient and parent satisfaction, highlight the biomechanical and psychosocial benefits of resin infiltration. Keywords: Resin infiltration, Hypomineralization, Hypoplasia, Dental sensitivity, Children, Quality of life, POQL