Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation

Molar Incisor Hypomineralization(MIH) is a developmental defect of the enamel involving the 1st permanent molars and/or permanent incisors being characterized by the presence of some demarcated opacities (with white to yellow brownish discolorations within the enamel structure) and by reduced mechanical properties and resistance of the enamel. Although enamel hypoplasia has been a common entity, its relationship with MIH is still questionable. Since both the defects is due to defective maturation of the enamel, studies have been done to relate both the entities and it has been found that in case of hypoplasia the borders of the normal enamel is usually smooth, while in MIH the borders to the normal enamel are irregular when post eruptive enamel loss had occurred. The diagnostic criteria and the treatment options are still on the process of development and improvement. The lack of knowledge and awareness about this peculiar pattern of hypomineralization has increased the curiosity of pediatric dentists all over the world. There is definitely a need to save the permanent as well the primary teeth from early loss due to decay in hypomineralized teeth.