Relationship between Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) severity and cavitated carious lesions in schoolchildren

The aim of this study was to identify the relationship between Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) severity and cavitated carious lesions in schoolchildren. This crosssectional study included 506 schoolchildren selected from public schools. The prevalence and severity of MIH was evaluated using the European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry criteria (EAPD), while the prevalence and severity of caries was evaluated by applying the ICDAS (International Caries Detection and Assessment System). The prevalence of MIH was 42.4%, with a severity of 21.7% mild, 7.7% moderate, and 13.0% severe. Prevalence was 61.6% for incipient lesions and 34.0% for cavitated lesions. The prevalence of ICDAS II ≥4 lesions was higher in schoolchildren with MIH than in those without MIH (55.8% vs. 44.2%, p<0.001). In the multinomial model, children with MIH in the moderate/ severe category were more likely (OR=3.28; CI95% 1.01 - 10.6, p<0.048) to present cavitated lesions. The presence of MIH at mild levels was not associated with cavitated carious lesions. A high prevalence of MIH was observed. Moderate and severe levels of MIH were associated with cavitated carious lesions. To prevent dental caries, it is important to identify MIH in children, particularly in the moderate and severe categories.