Lafferty F, Al Siyabi H, Sinadinos A et al. The burden of dental care in Amelogenesis Imperfecta paediatric patients in the UK NHS: a retrospective, multi-centred analysis. Eur Arch Paediatr Dent 2021; DOI: 10.1007/s40368-021-00638-x. Online ahead of print.

AI carries a high burden of specialist dental care to patients and families. Specialist centres are required to provide longitudinal, comprehensive care.

Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) results in weak, discoloured and often sensitive teeth. Specialist paediatric care is available, but the care provided is inconsistent. This study analysed the provision of treatment and burden of care for children with AI across paediatric dentistry centres in the UK. A retrospective evaluation of AI patient clinical records across four UK consultant-led paediatric dentistry centres was completed. In total, 138 records were available for analysis. The average patient age at first referral was 7.7 years and families travelled an average of 21.8 miles per appointment. Patients attended on average 4.5 appointments per year for 5.8 years. In total, 65% had experience of local anaesthetic, 28% inhalation sedation and 32% general anaesthetic. Dental treatment, including restorations and extractions, was commonly required on multiple teeth per patient.