PERINATAL FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO MOLAR INCISOR HYPOMINERALIZATION: AN OVERVIEW

Molar Incisor Hypominerization (MIH) is a developmental enamel defect affecting first permanent molars and incisors, leading to hypersensitivity, enamel breakdown, aesthetic concerns, and increased caries susceptibility in children. The etiology of MIH is multifactorial, with evidence suggesting that systemic disturbances during the prenatal and perinatal periods play a significant role in disrupting ameloblast function and enamel mineralization. Important contributing factors such as prematurity, low birth weight, gestational diabetes mellitus, neonatal jaundice, maternal infections, hormonal disturbances, delivery-related complications, and perinatal hypoxia have been associated with defective enamel maturation through mechanisms involving oxidative stress, inflammation, metabolic imbalance, and impaired mineral transport. Understanding these early-life influences is essential for improving prevention, early diagnosis, and clinical management of MIH.