Prevalence, Severity, and Correlation Between Dental Caries, Fluorosis, and Molar Incisor Hypomineralization among Children Aged 7 to 12 in Mehsana, Gujarat

Abstract

Background: Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) is a clinical term that describes a systemic abnormality involving either or all First Permanent Molars (FPMs) and is frequently associated with impacted incisors. It may have a substantial impact on the quality of life of those influenced. MIH enamel defects are suggested to be the result of multifactorial process. Early identification of this defect is crucial because impacted teeth typically demonstrate post-eruptive breakdown, which is associated with a predisposition for rapid caries progression and it is necessary to prevent future complications. There have been very few studies examining the prevalence of MIH in Indian populations, and there are no statistics accessible for the people of North Gujarat.

Aim: To examine the rate of occurrence, severity of MIH and Caries experienced by children among the age group of 7 to 12 years belonging to community of Mehsana region in Gujarat state of India.

Study Design: A descriptive cross-sectional study.

Material and Methods: Multistage sampling technique was utilized to examine the prevalence, severity, and dental caries among 700 children, between age group of 7 to 12 years from the Mehsana district, Gujarat. Permanent first molars and incisors, which function as index teeth, were checked using sterilized diagnostic equipment under direct sunlight vision. The standards established by European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (EAPD) in 2014 were utilized for MIH diagnosis.

Result: MIH prevalence observed was found to be about 8.14 % in endemic Fluorosis district of Gujarat with no gender predilection. MIH is often reported and linked to an increased incidence of caries in permanent dentition and there is no noticeable correlation between MIH and fluorosis.

 Conclusion: MIH was significantly associated with the increased risk for dental caries that will emphasizes the need for early diagnosis, prevention and control subsequent dental caries and no statistically significant association between MIH and Fluorosis.