Deciduous Teeth Hypomineralisation and Perinatal Risk Factors

Abstract

Hypomineralisation defects with demarcated opacities are also observed in the deciduous dentition and have been found to be a predictive factor for hypomineralisation defects in the permanent dentition. Deciduous molar hypomineralisation (DMH) represents a qualitative enamel defect primarily afflicting deciduous second molars, albeit its presence is not limited solely to deciduous second molars, as it can manifest in deciduous canines and first molars. Thus, the presence of demarcated hypomineralisation defects in deciduous teeth could be called as deciduous teeth hypomineralisation. Clinically, these defects are characterized by demarcated opacities, posteruptive enamel breakdown, atypical caries lesions, and atypical restorations. The accurate diagnosis of DMH continues to present a clinical challenge, and the reported prevalence of this defect exhibits notable variability across different countries. Its precise etiology remains elusive; however, there is a prevailing suspicion that events occurring during the prenatal, perinatal, or early postnatal periods, particularly those unfolding during the perinatal phase, are intricately linked to DMH development. Factors such as delivery complications, neonatal complications, prematurity, and low birth weight have been associated with DMH. Notably, there exists a possibility that, the more health-related events occur during this critical period, the greater the likelihood of a child presenting with this enamel defect. Nevertheless, the establishment of these associations warrants further investigation through prospective studies. Acquiring knowledge regarding the factors associated with this defect holds paramount importance for effective diagnosis, guidance for families with affected children, and the formulation of strategies to mitigate the incidence of these contributory factors.