Frequency of molar incisor hypomineralization and associated factors among children with special health care needs

BACKGROUND: Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a frequently encountered oral condition that varies from mild opacities to posteruptive enamel breakdown. No previous published studies have investigated the frequency of MIH and associated risk factors among children with special health care needs (CSHCN) to our awareness. OBJECTIVES: Assess the frequency of MIH and associated risk factors among CSHCN. DESIGN: Cross-sectional. SETTING: Schools in provincial city of Saudi Arabia. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study was conducted among 400 (180 boys and 220 girls) special needs children. Diagnosis of MIH was according to the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry criteria. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Result of logistic regression analysis that assessed the association between MIH prevalence and associated prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal factors. SAMPLE SIZE: 400 (180 boys and 220 girls) special needs children. RESULTS: Among 400 CSHCN, 98 (24.5%) presented with MIH. Children with multiple disabilities had a 3.89 times greater risk of MIH (95% CI: 1.91–6.19, P=.002). Children with positive prenatal factors had an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of 2.31 times for MIH (95% CI: 1.22–4.73, P=.012). Children with a childhood infection history had an aOR of 2.43 times for MIH (95% CI: 1.31–5.85, P=.014). Children with a breastfeeding history >18 months had an aOR of 3.73 for MIH (95% CI: 1.62–8.60, P=.002). Permanent maxillary first molars were the most frequently affected teeth, and demarcated opacity was the most frequent MIH type. CONCLUSION: MIH should be recognized as one of the prevalent oral health problems among CSHCN to prevent tooth mortality. LIMITATIONS: A cross-sectional study cannot establish a causal relationship. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST: None.