Molar Incisor Hypomineralization
Chalky Teeth
Does your child experience dental pain, or sensitivity when eating or after brushing? Are their teeth appear grainy and chalky?
Have you noticed brown or white spots on your child’s teeth?
If yes, Your child’s teeth are affected by Molar Incisor Hypomineralization, popularly known as Chalky Teeth.
As the name suggests, this condition is hypomineralization of the Molar (back) and Incisor (front) teeth.
Hypomineralisation is a condition that affects the outer layer (enamel) of your child’s teeth. In this condition, the teeth’ enamel lacks the number of minerals ideally required by teeth to remain strong and healthy. It causes enamel to appear rough, soft, and porous. Hypomineralisation causes the tooth enamel to be softer and therefore more prone to breakdown and decay.
As the teeth have a chalky white appearance, this condition is also popularly known as Chalky teeth.
Symptoms/Signs of Molar Incisor
Hypomineralisation (MIH)
- Grainy, chalky-feeling teeth
- Bright white spots on teeth
- Light brown spots on teeth
- Patches of cream, yellow or brown on teeth
- Teeth that break easily
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
- Pain when eating
- Toothache after brushing teeth
Why should you visit your pediatric dentist
as soon as you see the symptoms?
Molar Incisor Hypomineralization occurs while teeth are still developing in the jaw. It causes teeth to become soft, porous, and rough, which lack adequate calcium levels. Hence the teeth are more susceptible to decay.
It doesn’t take much for severe damage to occur – ordinary chewing and dietary acid alone may cause teeth to crumble. Lack of minerals causes reduces the thermal protection needed to shield the nerves inside teeth from hot and cold temperatures, which causes sensitivity and pain during eating and drinking.
It causes teeth to break down soon after they have emerged.
How we Treat Molar Incisor
Hypominerlization / Chalky Teeth at Dr. Tooth?
Chalky teeth can be hard on a child, as pain and discomfort will prevent them from enjoying their favorite food and drink. The lack of enamel will diminish thermal protection and make the teeth more sensitive. Your child may avoid brushing, which can lead to decay.
The treatment depends upon the severity of the disease, symptoms, and overall condition. After carrying out a complete oral examination and radiographs (to ensure that the diagnosis is the most accurate), we suggest a holistic treatment plan.
The treatment may include the following:
01. Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) Treatment – SDF is an antimicrobial liquid that can help stop tooth decay and help with sensitivity.
02. Fluoride Treatments – As a protective strategy.
03. Preventive Resin Restoration – The application of thin, resin coating on the chewing surface of molars and premolars of teeth help protect them from dental decay.
04. Pediatric Stainless Steel Crown – may be required in severe cases, later followed by a permanent porcelain crown. It will reduce pain and make teeth healthier and more robust.
05. Extraction – The last resort, in case the tooth is extensively damaged, and nothing can be done.
06. Meticulous Oral Hygiene Protocol and In-Office Follow-Ups – Proper oral hygiene at home and regular follow-ups at the dental clinic help in improving the overall condition of the disease.
Can We Avoid This?
All of this can be avoided if the child is examined as early as 3 years of age, so we know whether the child is suffering from Hypomineralized second primary molars (HSPM) or not. HSPM is a strong predictor of MIH. It means the child’s chances of suffering from MIH by the age of 6 are very high. The second examination can be done by the age of 6 to catch them early, and preventive regimens in the form of SDF can be instituted to prevent any further breakdown.