Diagnosis and treatment of molar incisor hypomineralization

Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a relatively common condition that varies in clinical severity and can result in early loss of the permanent 6-year molars. The etiology of MIH remains unclear, and the diagnosis can be confused with more generalized enamel defects such as those that occur in amelogenesis imperfecta. The management of MIH depends largely on the severity of the enamel defect. Degrees of hypomineralization can range from mild enamel opacities to enamel that readily abrades from the tooth as it emerges into the oral cavity. Usually, severely affected molars are extremely hypersensitive, prone to rapid caries development, and can be difficult to manage in young patients. The purpose of this article is to review approaches to diagnosing and treating MIH.