Molar Incisor Hypomineralization from Inception to Intervention–Evidence Based Review

Abstract

Background: Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) is considered a highly prevalent clinical problem worldwide. The etiology of MIH involves a complex interaction between systemic and environmental insults with possible genetic contribution. Early diagnosis is facilitated by collaboration between clinicians responsible for oral health management of the patient and is the key for enhancing the long-term prognosis and quality of life of affected children. MIH management is a formidable oral health challenge due to the wide spectrum of clinical presentation with the need for tailored treatment for the child affected by MIH condition. Objective: To provide dental practitioners with an updated and evidence-based overview of MIH etiology, diagnosis, and treatments modalities available for its management. Conclusion: In this review, recent clinical evidence on MIH etiology, diagnosis and treatment is presented. Given recent availability of sophisticated technologies there is an increasing number of treatment modalities now at the fingertips of all oral health clinicians alike, ranging from preventive measures, management of hypersensitivity to advanced restorative techniques. The tailored treatment plan should encompass a short and long-term approach requiring more frequent dental check-ups in order to achieve better outcomes and prognosis. Future translational clinical research to best practice that will enhance our understanding of the exact causes of MIH and allow development of standardized diagnostic criteria as well as optimal treatment strategies are warranted.