Dental Caries Status and Salivary Properties of Children with/without Molar Incisor Hypomineralization of 8-16 Years Age in Lucknow: A Comparative Evaluation.

BACKGROUND

"Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a dental developmental disorder marked by defects in the enamel of molars and incisors." Hypomineralization is caused by several etiological factors. One such factor can be saliva and its components. "Understanding salivary composition is crucial not only for evaluating the role of its individual components but also due to the growing interest in saliva-based diagnostics. Additionally, variations in saliva may influence the condition of compromised enamel."

AIMS: This study aims to assess the dental caries status and salivary characteristics of children aged 8-16 years diagnosed with MIH, and to compare these findings with those of healthy peers in the same age-group.

MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY: Saliva samples were collected from 128 participants and divided equally into two groups, each consisting of 64 individuals. These samples underwent clinical evaluation, salivary analysis, and biochemical testing.

RESULTS

Decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) score among study group participants (MIH) was found to be higher, mean salivary pH, low salivary flow, low hydration, thick viscous saliva, and low value of buffering capacity was found in the study group. The value of salivary phosphorus was lower in MIH, whereas the value of salivary calcium and the value of salivary immunoglobulin A (s-IgA) were high among the study group.

CONCLUSION

On overall evaluation and comparison, MIH-affected children showed marked increased levels in DMFT score, presence of thick viscous saliva, presence of more salivary calcium and IgA levels, and decreased salivary pH, hydration, buffering capacity, and salivary phosphorus levels.

HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Pandey A, Dhinsa K, Saha S, et al. Dental Caries Status and Salivary Properties of Children with/without Molar Incisor Hypomineralization of 8-16 Years Age in Lucknow: A Comparative Evaluation. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(8):971-976.