What is MIH?
MIH is a tooth condition that affects the enamel (hard outer layer) of the tooth. It usually presents as white opaque, yellow or even brown lesions and commonly affect the adult incisors (front teeth) and molars (back teeth). In severe cases the teeth can break down and cavities can form.
MIH is not usually noticed until the adult incisors or molars come into the mouth around age 6-7 years. However, it can sometimes affect the back baby molar teeth and in these cases can be seen in the mouth from 2-3 years of age upwards.
Hypomineralization causes the tooth enamel to be softer and therefore more prone to breakdown and decay. These teeth also tend to be more sensitive. Because of the nature of these teeth, they are sometimes harder to numb up for treatment and fillings are not as durable as they are in healthy teeth.
What causes MIH?
It is thought to be caused by a disturbance in tooth development around the time of birth or in the first few years of life. The cells that secrete the enamel (the ameloblasts) are very sensitive to:
- Changes in temperature (e.g., fever)
- Changes in pH (due to diet, illness or medication)
- Pollution, etc.
Disturbances can occur as a result of coughs, colds, or antibiotics during pregnancy, severe illness during the first two years of life, dioxins in breastmilk or for no known reason. It has been suggested that there may also be a small genetic element.
What are the signs and symptoms of MIH?
You or your child may have noticed that their front and/or back teeth may be discoloured and appear cream, yellow or brown. Also, their teeth may be painful or sensitive, and even crumbly.
See photographs below showing the signs of MIH.
