[Introduction and application of European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry judgment criteria and scoring system for molar-incisor hypomineralization].

ABSTRACT

Molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is defined as an enamel mineralization defect caused by systemic factors, which is characterized by demarcated opacities. These opacities are liable to result in brittle hypomineralized enamel breakdown, which expediting the eventual development of cavities, even tooth loss. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention are essential. The MIH scoring system based on the diagnostic criteria of the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry (EAPD) is internationally recognized. This system is particularly helpful to diagnose and evaluate the MIH, as well as conductive to the performance of epidemiological investigations. This paper gives a presentation on the EAPD judgment criteria and scoring system as well as their applications, based on the current situation of MIH studies and our findings of MIH epidemiological investigation.