Developmental hypomineralization of the enamel of the first permanent and the second deciduous molars – report of two cases

Abstract

Introduction Molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a developmental defect of dental enamel that affects one to all four first permanent molars (FPM) and frequently permanent incisors. Enamel aberrations are observed as demarcated opacities of different colors (from white to brown) and as posteruptive enamel breakdown. Clinically similar pathological signs can also be present in deciduous molars.

Case outline Histology of an FPM and a second deciduous molar was performed after extraction from two unrelated patients with MIH due to inflammatory complications. Tooth samples were analyzed using a stereomicroscope (SM), light microscope (LM), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Enamel thickness of both affected teeth was normal. An obvious distinction in enamel microstructure was observed between the normally developed and the molar-incisor hypomineralized enamel with SM, LM, and SEM.

Conclusion In MIH patients, regular dental visits enable early diagnosis of the disease and appropriate treatment of the patient as soon as possible, with included preventive measures.

Keywords: MIH; enamel; first permanent molar; second deciduous molar; histology