Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) prevalence in children between 9-12 years old in children between 9-12 years of age belonging to two schools in Quito, Ecuador; between February and March 2018

Abstract

The Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) is a qualitative defect of the enamel that affects one or more definitive first molars, with or without commitment of the permanent incisors.

The global prevalence of MIH ranges from 2.4% to 40% and, in South America, its average is 12.3%.

The aim of this study is to estimate the prevalence of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization in schoolchildren between 9 and 12 years old through visual exploration.

It was a cross-sectional, descriptive and qualitative study. 300 children from 9 to 12 years of age, who attended two schools in Quito, Ecuador, between February and March 2018, participated. They were examined by a calibrated operator. The diagnosis was established according to the criteria of the European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and its severity according to Mathu - Muju and Wright criteria.

The prevalence found was 13.7%. There is no association between the presence of HIM and the gender of the children. The majority of cases occurred in 10-year-old schoolchildren. The dental units most affected qualitatively and quantitatively were the first upper permanent molars. The dental units less affected qualitatively and quantitatively were the lower permanent lateral incisors.