Your child's adult molars are coming through — but something looks wrong. They might be discoloured, yellow, brown, or even crumbly at the edges. The dentist mentioned MIH. Here is what that means.

MIH stands for molar incisor hypomineralisation. It is a developmental condition that affects the enamel of one or more permanent molars, and sometimes the incisors (front teeth) too.

The enamel does not form properly — it comes through softer and more porous than it should be. That means it wears down faster, stains more easily, and can be very sensitive.

MIH affects roughly one in six children in the UK. It is one of the most common developmental dental conditions in school-age children. Yet many parents have never heard of it until their own child is diagnosed.

It tends to run in families, though the exact cause is not fully understood. Possible factors include illness in early childhood, problems during pregnancy, or exposure to certain environmental toxins.

The signs usually appear when the adult molars erupt, typically around age 6. You might notice:

• Yellow, brown, or white patches on the biting surface of the molars
• Teeth that look translucent at the edges
• Teeth that chip or wear down unusually fast
• Sensitivity to cold, heat, or sweet foods

If your child complains about pain when eating or drinking hot or cold things, do not dismiss it — it could be MIH.

Treatment depends on how severe the condition is. For mild cases, your dentist might recommend fluoride varnish to strengthen the enamel and reduce sensitivity. For more affected teeth, options include fissure sealants, composite fillings, or in severe cases, stainless steel crowns.

Early intervention is important. The longer MIH goes untreated, the more the enamel can break down.

Book a dental check-up if your child's adult molars look or seem different. Your dentist can assess whether MIH is present and recommend a monitoring or treatment plan.

Call 01323 723757 or book at www.meadsdental.com

Meads Village Dental Practice