Prevalence, distribution, characteristics and associated factors of molar-incisor hypo-mineralisation among Libyan schoolchildren: a cross-sectional survey

Background and aim This study aimed to assess the prevalence and clinical status of molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) and other enamel defects and associated factors in Libyan children. Methods A cross-sectional survey of a randomly selected sample of 8- to 10-year-old Libyan school children was conducted in the city of Benghazi, Libya in 2019. The children were assessed for the presence of MIH and enamel defects according to EAPD evaluation criteria. The survey was supplemented by a questionnaire, completed by parents, about potential associated factors occurring before, around and after birth. Association with risk indicators was assessed using chi-square and Mann–Whitney U tests. Results One thousand forty-seven children returned complete questionnaires and attended the clinical examination, with 87% response rate. MIH was the most common form of enamel defects, affecting 162 (15.5%) children. The average number of MIH affected teeth was 3.54 (SD = 1.82). There were no statistically significant associations between the prevalence of MIH and health or demographic characteristics except for the history of early childhood health problems ( P = 0.047). Conclusions In Libyan children, MIH appeared to be the most prevalent type of enamel defects affecting 15.5% of the participants. Although not statistically significant, MIH appeared to be associated with prenatal, perinatal and post-natal challenges.