Prevalence and severity of molar incisor hypomineralization in a region of Germany -- a brief communication

OBJECTIVES: Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a developmental disturbance concerning permanent incisors and first permanent molars. The aim of this study was to ascertain the frequency of MIH in the region of central Hesse, Germany. METHODS: 1,022 children aged 6 to 12 years were surveyed during routine school-based dental examinations, which were conducted by the regional public health department. Symptoms of MIH were recorded and a DMF-T evaluation was carried out. RESULTS: Approximately 6 percent (5.9 percent) of all examined children showed at least one ill-structured first permanent molar in terms of MIH. Furthermore, 57.9 percent of these children with hypomineralized first molars also showed changes in the enamel structure of the permanent incisors. Altogether, children with MIH showed a significantly higher DMF-T value for permanent teeth than children without MIH. CONCLUSIONS: A carefully managed recall program for children affected by MIH is essential with regard to the increasing importance of preventive and restorative measures.