Prevalence of and factors associated with molar-incisor hypomineralisation in schoolchildren in the canton of Basel-Landschaft, Switzerland

OBJECTIVES: As prevalence of molar-incisor hypomineralisation varies considerably in different countries and regions, the aim of this study was to obtain representative epidemiological data for schoolchildren living in the canton of Basel-Landschaft, Switzerland. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A representative population of schoolchildren of three different age groups, i.e. 1st grade (mean age: 7.4 years), 6th grade (mean age: 12.6 years), and 9th grade (mean age: 15.7 years) visiting compulsory schools in the canton of Basel-Landschaft, Switzerland, was examined. The presence or absence of molar-incisor hypomineralisation at time of examination was recorded as well as potential influencing factors such as age group, gender, nationality, or the children’s place of residence. RESULTS: A total of 1252 schoolchildren could be included. On average, the prevalence of MIH in the study population was 14.8%. No statistically significant differences were found for nationality, gender, or place of residence. Although not statistically significant, children from the youngest age group had the highest while children from the oldest age group had the lowest MIH prevalence. CONCLUSION: With a mean value of 14.8%, MIH prevalence among schoolchildren living in the canton of Basel-Landschaft, Switzerland, is comparable to mean values recorded globally. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study represents the first study on MIH prevalence in Switzerland and also provides further evidence on potential influencing factors.