Prevalence, pattern, and distribution of molar incisor hypomineralization in Kantara city, Sinai, Egypt: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract Background A developmental enamel deficiency of systemic origin, molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH), affects one to four first permanent molars and frequently affects the incisors. Geographical, genetic, and environmental factors all have an impact on MIH's highly varied global prevalence, worldwide has been observed to range from 13 to 14%. Although information on the prevalence of MIH is growing globally, there are still very few epidemiological studies conducted in certain parts of Egypt, especially in the Sinai Governorate. For the purpose of comprehending the disease burden, developing public health initiatives, and directing the clinical treatment of impacted children, local prevalence data must be established. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of MIH in a group of Egyptian children in Kantara city, Sinai Governorate. Methods Children aged 7—10 years, from 8 different public basic schools, were examined using the enamel defect index (EDI) and diagnostic criteria. Data collection was executed on a time-based sampling approach (convenience sampling) (non-probability sampling). Statistical analysis was conducted utilizing IBM® SPSS®, and the results were presented regarding the frequency and percentages. Results We investigated 1,360 children in total, comprising 655 boys (48.2%) and 705 girls (51.8%). A total of 195 children were diagnosed with molar–incisor hypomineralization (MIH), resulting in an overall prevalence of 14.3%, with rates of 13.6% in males and 15.0% in girls. A total of 1056 MIH-affected teeth were found, with permanent first molars being the most common (63.2%). 77.1% of them had mild abnormalities, and 22.9% had severe problems. Severe MIH was substantially correlated with molars, male gender, and advanced age. Conclusion This study offers an important initial estimate, showing that MIH is common (14.3%) and a frequently severe condition among schoolchildren in Kantara, Sinai. The results show a significant disease burden that has to be incorporated into regional public health initiatives and clinical dental care in order to enhance the oral health outcomes of impacted kids.