<unk>  (MIH) is a type of enamel defect affecting, as the name suggests, the first<unk> s and incisors in the permanent dentition. MIH is considered a worldwide problem and usually occurs in children under 10 years old. This developmental condition is caused by the lack of mineralisation of enamel during its maturation phase, due to interruption to the function of ameloblasts. Many factors have been suggested, such as genetics and medical problems during pregnancy, but only childhood illness, fever in particular, seems to be associated with MIH. However, further studies on the aetiology of MIH are required because it is believed to be multifactorial. MIH often presents as discolouration on one to four affected permanent<unk> s and the associated incisors. The enamel of the affected teeth appears yellow, brown, cream or white and thus are sometimes referred to as ‘cheese<unk> s’. These teeth are deemed less aesthetically pleasing, hence causing distress in children with MIH and their parents. It is important to note that although there is difference in enamel translucency in the affected teeth, there should not be any changes to the enamel thickness, unlike in enamel hypoplasia. As a consequence, children with MIH are more likely to experience tooth decay compared to those without the condition. Moreover, the development of tooth decay is very rapid due to the less mineralised enamel. MIH only becomes visible once the permanent<unk> s start to erupt and that is when opacities on the tooth can be observed if it is affected. It will be useful for the children who are suspected to suffer from MIH to visit their dentist more frequently during the eruption of their first permanent<unk> s to prevent any further complications affecting their oral health.
Molar incisor hypomineralisation
Maxillary lateral incisor agenesis
Chattering teeth
Shovel-shaped incisors
Cartilage–hair hypoplasia
Impacted wisdom teeth
Maxillary hypoplasia
Enamel hypoplasia