Background: The molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is defined as a qualitative defect of the enamel characterised by the progressive and simultaneous hypomineralization of the enamel structure of the first permanent molars which is of systemic origin, which may be associated frequently with incisors. Although the reported prevalence of MIH ranges from 2.4% to 40.2% worldwide, very little data is available from India.
Aim: To determine the prevalence of molar incisor hypomineralization among school children aged 9 to 12 years in virajpet, Karnataka.
Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study consisted of 1600 school children aged 9-12 years selected by stratified cluster sampling procedure. The European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry criteria were followed for MIH diagnosis. Chi-square test was used to analyse the categorical data. P ≤ 0.05 was considered for statistical significance.
Results: The prevalence of MIH is 13.12% with no gender predilection. Ten-year-old children showed the highest prevalence (15%) among all the age group. Majority of children with MIH (70.2%) have lesions in both molars and incisors with demarcated opacities and atypical restorations being the most frequent defect type.
Conclusion: Prevalence of MIH was 13.12% in the 9-12-year child population in Virajpet. There is a need for a proper planned preventive and restorative program about the increasing prevalence of MIH.
Keywords: Demarcated opacities; First permanent molars; Hypomineralization; Post eruptive breakdown.