OBJECTIVES

The objectives were to find out whether hypomineralized permanent first molars and incisors, known as Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH), occurs all over Europe, whether its prevalence in each country is known and whether or not it is considered to be a clinical problem.

SAMPLE AND METHODS

Clinical photos of MIH and a five-item questionnaire were sent to members of the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry (EAPD). A total of 59 questionnaires were sent to members in 31 countries. After one month a reminder was sent to non-responders.

RESULTS

Fifty-four dentists (92%) in 30 countries (97%) returned the questionnaire. MIH was stated to occur in all but one country (the Czech Republic). Nearly all the responders (97%) stated that they were familiar with the clinical appearance of MIH and a majority saw it as a clinical problem. Furthermore, a large majority of the responders (90%) considered it important to map the prevalence of MIH in European countries as such data are available to only a limited extent.

CONCLUSION

Paediatric dentists in Europe are aware of MIH and the majority consider it to be a clinical problem. Only limited data are available on the prevalence of MIH. Comparable and representative prevalence studies are therefore urgently needed to gain more knowledge about the magnitude of MIH and related clinical problems.