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Mineral content in teeth with deciduous molar hypomineralisation (DMH)
M E C Elfrink1, J M ten Cate, L J van Ruijven
1Department of Cariology, Endodontology and Pedodontology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Journal of Dentistry
|September 11, 2013
Summary
Yellow or brown opacities in molar hypomineralisation (DMH) indicate significantly lower enamel mineral density. White opacities show no difference, highlighting the need for preventive strategies in DMH management.
Area of Science:
- Dental research
- Mineralogy
- Pediatric dentistry
Background:
- Molar incisor hypomineralisation (DMH) affects enamel quality.
- Understanding mineral density variations in DMH opacities is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify and compare the hydroxyapatite mineral density of sound and opaque areas in DMH molars.
- To use sound deciduous teeth as controls for comparison.
Main Methods:
- Micro-computed tomography (microCT) scanning of 29 extracted primary molars.
- Analysis of teeth with yellow, white, and brown opacities, and sound molars.
- Statistical analysis using ANOVA and t-tests to determine significant differences.
Main Results:
- Yellow and brown opacities showed significantly lower mineral density (1368-1407 mg HA/cm²) compared to sound enamel (1747-1758 mg HA/cm²).
- White opacities had similar mineral density (1737 mg HA/cm²) to sound enamel.
- Mineral density in yellow and brown opacities was intermediate between dentine and enamel.
Conclusions:
- DMH molars with yellow or brown opacities exhibit a 20-22% reduction in enamel mineral density.
- White opacities do not correlate with reduced mineral content.
- The findings underscore the importance of a preventive approach for DMH due to compromised enamel integrity.
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