Molar Incisor Hypomineralization: paediatricians should be involved as well!

Tooth structure anomalies affect the deciduous or permanent dentition with varying degrees of severity, depending on the odontogenesis phase in which the disturbance factor occurs. Some forms are clearly increasing and becoming of common clinical observation, as is the case of MIH (Molar Incisor Hypomineralization) whose prevalence ranges from 3 to 25%. However, often stucture anomalies are still under-diagnosed. Early diagnosis should be within the reach of all clinicians (both dentist and non-dentist), and is essential for improving the treatment outcome and quality of life of affected patients. The objectives of treatment consist in the resolution of the symptoms and in the aesthetic, morphological and functional restoration of the affected teeth, which can be achieved with a multidisciplinary approach. Therefore, in order to prevent damage to the teeth with structure anomalies, early visits and close follow-ups are necessary. In children the first dental visit is recommended at the age of 3-4 years, however in the presence of important dental abnormalities of the deciduos dentition, the paediatrician or the parents should request a visit even at a younger age. Because of the sensitivity that is often associated with these disorders, in fact, daily tooth brushing is often inadequate. It is therefore important to inform the parents and instruct them to intervene in order to maintain proper oral hygiene. Finally, special attention should also be paid to the diet, which should not be cariogenic and exclude foods and drinks with acidic pH. Perhaps it would be appropriate to share this information with the paediatricians and general practitioners we collaborate with: I am sure that a better knowledge of this dental condition will translate into an even earlier diagnosis and improved treatment outcomes for our (and their) patients! What are your thoughts about it?