Prevalence of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) in Primary School Children in Colombo District, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) is a condition associated with hypomineralization of the enamel affecting 1-4 permanent first molars and incisors, and doubtful in origin. Clinically, MIH presents as demarcated opacities at the time of the eruption, leading to post-eruptive breakdown and high caries incidence. The global prevalence of MIH ranges from 2.4 to 40.2%. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of MIH among primary school children in the Colombo district and describe the pattern of disease involvement. All the students in Grade 3, aged 8 years, in randomly selected 20 schools in the Colombo district were examined by a single dentist. MIH was identified and recorded according to the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry (EAPD) judgment criteria published in 2003. The sample consisted of 1161 children; 638 (54.9%) were girls and 523 (45.1%) were boys.  MIH was diagnosed in 118 (10.2%, 95% CI 9.3 – 11.1); 61 (51.7%) girls, and 57 (48.3%) boys.  Sex is not an associated factor for MIH (p>0.05, chi-square test). The number of first permanent molars affected with MIH was higher than permanent incisors. The first incisors are more frequently affected compared to the second permanent incisors. The observed prevalence of MIH was comparable with the reported regional prevalence rates and MIH is a relatively common condition. Early diagnosis and management of MIH are important in preventing complications. In-depth studies with more representative samples are important.

KEYWORDS: Molar Incisor Hypomineralization, Hypomineralization, First permanent molars, Prevalence of Molar incisor hypomineralization