Definition and scoring system of molar incisor hypomineralization: A review

Objectives: A definition and classification system for molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) was first suggested by the European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (EAPD) in 2003. Since then, there has been growing interest in these mineralization defects due to esthetic and cariogenic susceptibility concerns. The aim of this review was to evaluate studies on MIH in an attempt to provide evidence for consistency and standardization of MIH definition and severity scoring reporting by clinicians and researchers. Methods: Included were studies (research papers and reviews) focusing on MIH affected populations and containing a definition and scoring system. Only English language articles published in the period 2001 to 2015 were considered. Study selection and data extraction were performed by two independent investigators. Results: More than half of the publications used the EAPD definition and fewer than half of the prevalence reports have either used the EAPD criteria or the developmental defects of enamel (DDE) index as their classification system. Others have either incorporated modifications or created their own scoring criteria. The lack of standardized definition and heterogeneity of scoring systems used might explain the considerable variability in prevalence figures. Conclusion: In order to better define the diagnostic criteria and the treatment needs for those patients, a globally accepted standardized protocol for scoring system is required. Correspondence to: Katherine Kula, Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics, Chair and Jarabak Endowed Professor, Department of Orthodontics and Oral Facial Genetics, Indiana University School of Dentistry, 1121 W. Michigan St., Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA, Tel: 317-278-9915, E-mail: [email protected]