Understanding the Enamel Disintegration and Posteruptive Breakdown of Demarcated Opacities on Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation.

Abstract

This review aims to present scientific knowledge regarding the demarcated opacities of molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) and factors that clarify the occurrence of posteruptive enamel breakdown. The demarcated opacities have distinct boundaries with the adjacent nonaffected enamel and may vary in color among white, creamy, yellow, and brownish. The hypomineralised enamel is more porous and less organized than the nonaffected enamel. As a result of the reduced mineral content and higher protein content, the hypomineralised enamel shows a progressive reduction in its mechanical properties according to the opacity feature. Chemically, the protein content of MIH opacities is abnormally high, mainly composed by albumin, which is a serum protein usually not found in mature enamel. The highest protein content is seen in brown opacities, followed by yellow and white opacities, both with higher protein content than nonaffected enamel. The fact that the hypomineralised enamel is more fragile than the nonaffected enamel is supported not only by laboratorial findings but also by clinical prospective studies that observed an aggravation of MIH over time, as well as the correlation between the color of the demarcated opacities and the risk of posteruptive enamel breakdown. A better understanding about the microstructure of the hypomineralised enamel has relevant implications for the clinical approach of the condition. In the clinic, besides a comprehensive assessment of anamnesis and clinical data, it is advisable to record the color and the location of the opacities by tooth surface in order to support the treatment decisions and estimate a prognosis for MIH patients.