Treatment of molar-incisor hypomineralization in children

Abstract:

Molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a condition associated with qualitative changes in enamel manifesting as white, yellow, cream, or brown opacities. At least one permanent molar is affected, usually in addition to the permanent incisors. The epidemiological data on MIH are highly inconsistent. The global prevalence is estimated to be 14.2%, with it being at 13% in Croatia in 2020. Treatment options are dependent on the severity of the case. Treatments may be non-invasive, minimally invasive, or invasive. The non-invasive approach focuses on preventing progression of lesions and development of dental caries and includes oral hygiene instructions, nutrition recommendations, remineralization procedures, fissure sealing, and regular follow-ups every 3 to 6 months. The minimally invasive procedures aim to preserve as much healthy tooth tissue as possible and include tooth whitening, microabrasion, and infiltration technique. The invasive procedures, which should be used in the most severe cases, include restorative treatments, prosthetic replacements, extractions, and orthodontic therapy.

Key words:
infiltration technique; pediatric dentistry; tooth hypomineralization