A clinical and statistical study on enamel hypomineralization of the first permanent molar in the period of mixed dentition

Abstract Background: The first permanent molar (FPM) is the first tooth in the permanent dentition that emerges in the oral cavity, at around the age of six and behind the deciduous teeth, thus converting the primary dentition into a mixed dentition. Its early formation represents a risk factor for the onset of hard dental tissues disorders, the most common being the molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH). Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the hypomineralization type of developmental defects of enamel at FPM level during the mixed dentition stage, in a group of Romanian children. Patients, Materials and Methods: The research was conducted on 87 patients, 44 females and 43 males, divided into the following age groups: 5–6 years, 6–7 years, 7–8 years, 8–9 years, 9–10 years, 10–11 years, 11–12 years and older than 12 years. All children were examined in the dental office by a pediatric dentist. Results: Of the subjects, 40.2% presented hypomineralization lesions on the FPM. Among the affected children, 62.9% were girls and 37.1% were boys. Mild forms were the most prevalent, being found in 71.4% of the affected subjects. Moderate forms were present in 22.9% and severe forms in 5.7% of the affected children. MIH prevalence significantly decreased with increasing age. Only two children belonging to the group 8–9 years and 10–11 years, respectively, showed severe MIH lesions. Statistically significant differences were determined in what regards the distribution of MIH children according to the severity of the lesions in relation to age (p=0.007). Conclusions: Children 6- to 7-year-old have been the most affected by FPM hypomineralization, which indicates the need for early management of the disease, through a thorough diagnosis, and preventive and interceptive therapeutic approaches.