Molar–incisor hypomineralisation in Lebanon: association with prenatal, natal and postnatal factors

Background Molar–incisor hypomineralisation is an enamel developmental defect highly prevalent in Lebanon. Literature suggests that perinatal conditions and childhood illnesses might be potential aetiological factors for this affection. Aims This case–control study aimed to investigate the association of MIH with prenatal, natal and postnatal factors amongst 7–9 years Lebanese children and to end up with recommendations to overcome its occurrence. Methods Self-administered, structured questionnaire including potential etiological factors was distributed to 659 MIH and non-MIH children’s parents. The analysis of data was carried out using Statistical Package for Social Sciences Computer Software (SPSS 21.0, Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). For Statistical analysis, Pearson’s chi-square, Fischer’s exact test and multivariate regression model were used. A p value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Children whose mothers had consumed food and drinks canned during pregnancy had 2.9 (CI: 1.367 to 6.187) times more likely to have MIH. Those who had history of taking antibiotics had 2.15 (CI: 1.186 to 3.909) times higher odds of MIH than those who did not have while those who had fever episodes during the early childhood years were 2.057 (CI: 1.149 to 3.683) times more likely to develop MIH. Conclusion During early childhood, careful handling of high fever, greater public awareness regarding misuse of antibiotics and education about bisphenol A and how to avoid it during pregnancy and breastfeeding are recommended to decrease the occurrence of MIH.