The use of transillumination in mapping demarcated enamel opacities in anterior teeth: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract

Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a qualitative developmental defect of enamel affecting a minimum of one first permanent molar, often with involvement of the permanent incisors. 1 Despite MIH having been detected among ancient populations, 2,3 it was first identified in 1987 by Koch and defined in 2001. 1,4 MIH lesions differ considerably from sound enamel. Microscopically, these lesions present disorganized enamel prisms and large inter-prismatic spaces occupied by a protein-rich matrix associated with decreased mineral density, hardness, and fracture resistance. This explains the increased surface porosity and post-eruptive breakdown (PEB) of the enamel surface (especially in severe lesions) and the greater susceptibility to dental caries; and also why affected teeth are often hypersensitive. [5][6][7][8][9][10]

Comparison between two molar incisor hypomineralization detection criteria in epidemiological surveys

“…Fragelli et al 14 reported that demarcated opacities in incisors tend to remain stable over time due to a lower occurrence of PEB. A recent study, however, demonstrated a significant relationship between the color and the size of the lesion, with the latter being an excellent parameter for estimating the risk of PEB in anterior teeth 15 …”

“…A recent study, however, demonstrated a significant relationship between the color and the size of the lesion, with the latter being an excellent parameter for estimating the risk of PEB in anterior teeth. 15 Hypersensitivity is another factor that should be considered when assessing the severity of MIH. It can manifest not only when PEB exposes the dentin but also in the presence of intact demarcated opacities.…”

Microabrasion in the management of enamel discolorations in paediatric dentistry: a systematic review

“…Clinical examination alone may be insufficient. Transilluminated images may represent a promising imaging method for mapping hypomineralized enamel lesions, especially in MIH cases [44]. Additionally, given its conservative and non-invasive nature, we can recommend microabrasion in all cases in which it could be effective before considering another non-invasive or invasive treatment.…”

Minimally Invasive Therapy for Treating White Spot Lesions on Anterior Teeth in Molar Incisor Hypo Mineralization

“…Various methods such as optical microscopy, polarized light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy have been used to study the structural properties of enamel affected by MIH [18,20]. These tools have shown:…”

“…-Thicker prism sheaths and higher inter-and intra-prismatic concentrations of organic particles [18,20].…”