MOLAR INCISOR HYPOMINERALISATION... What is that????????

WHAT IS MOLAR INCISOR HYPOMINERALISATION?

Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation(MIH) is a condition affecting the enamel of permanent teeth. Most commonly the first permanent molar ( 6’s) and incisors (front teeth) are affected.

Normally, the enamel is white and very hard, but in cases of MIH, the enamel can be creamy or have a yellow/brown colour. The texture is often rough and tends to chip away very easily.

These teeth are often sensitive to cold and the child may be reluctant to brush them. They are also at a higher risk of developing dental caries( tooth decay) which can be rapid. Chidren may also complain about the appearance of their front teeth.

Teeth are not necessarily equally affected and the front teeth usuallas do not have the same loss of enamel as the molars.

Why does my children have it?
Many reasons have been suggested but it is often unclear.

Some suggested causes are frequent childhood disease( high grade fever at childhood), frequent taking antibiotics,

What treatment will be needed?

MIH molar teeth are fragile and decay can develop rapidly and easily. Children need to be seen more frequently because of this, perhaps every 2-3months by the dentist. Treatment includes fluoride theraphy (varnish applied) and sealants where possible.

Sometimes these teeth will require fillings or placement of stainless steel crown using topical anaesthesia.

In some cases, the potential life span of some or all of the molars is limited and extraction of the the affected may be necessary. This is best carried out around the age of 9, to allow the best movement of the remaining adult teeth to minimize any spaces. Often the opinion from an orthodontist may be sought first.

Meanwhile the incisors teeth often require little or no treatment as the defects are usually milder.

Will all my child’s teeth be affected?

Only the first molars and incisors are affected by this condition. All other adults teeth should be unaffected

Remember!!

If your child has MIH it is important that they attend all their dental appointments as problems in these teeth may arise very rapidly.

Make sure your child brushes these teeth twice a day with a  fluoride toothpaste

Keep sugary drinks and snack to a minimum


-Jabatan Pergigian Pediatrik, Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah-