Association Between Frequency and Severity of Dental Fluorosis and Molar Incisor Hypomineralization

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To assess the association between the frequency and severity of dental fluorosis (DF) and molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) in a fluoridated salt region. STUDY DESIGN: In this retrospective cross-sectional study, we evaluated the buccal, occlusal/incisal, and palatal/lingual surfaces of first permanent molars and permanent incisors of 453 patients aged 13-16 years through intraoral standardized photographs. Two standardized examiners evaluated DF and MIH independently, utilizing the Thylstrup-Fejerskov (TF) index and the MIH index. The statistical analysis was performed using a generalized linear model and logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, and dental caries experience. RESULTS: The MIH frequency at the surface level was lower in the presence of DF (PR= 0.03; P= 0.00, 95% CI: 0.01-0.08). At the surface level, MIH severity was lower among those presenting mild DF (aOR= 0.02; 95% IC: 0.01-0.07). Regarding severe DF, we found no significant difference in MIH severity (P= 0.174). CONCLUSION: MIH frequency and severity tend to be lower in the presence of DF.