A review of molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH): diagnosis, etiology and treatment

Introduction: Since it is difficult to choose the best treatment plan for molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH), which involves special considerations, the aim of this study was to evaluate MIH etiology and introduce the best treatment plan.Review report: PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Iran Medex searches were run for the published data from 1970 to 2010 with mesh terms of molar, incisor, and molar-incisor hypomineralization to collect relevant data.Results: MIH is a term to describe a condition in which one or more of the first permanent molars and often at least one incisor are involved, which is distinct from other disorders. Several factors have been implicated in its etiology, which include environmental contaminants, medical problems (prenatal, perinatal, postnatal) and genetic factors. Treatment entails a wide range of modalities from preventive measures to full crowns.Conclusion: Since MIH is a well recognized and prevalent clinical condition, children at risk as a result of repeated episodes of disease during the first year of life or children with opacities on erupting molars and incisors should be monitored carefully and should undergo regular dental visits and care. It appears it is necessary for dental practitioners to have a sound knowledge about the etiology and proper treatment plans for the condition. Key words: Molar, Incisor, Hypoplasia.