FREQUENCY AND RISK FACTORS OF DEVELOPMENTAL DEFECTS OF ENAMEL - A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Objectives: To determine the frequency and risk factors for enamel defects in patients reporting to Saidu College of Dentistry, Swat.Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 192 children aged 8 to 12 years was determined using non-probability consecutive sampling. Clinical examinations were performed by trained dental professionals using diagnostic criteria of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) based on the presence or absence of demarcated opacities for diagnosing enamel defects. Data on potential risk factors such as parental education, infection history, medication during lactation, formula feeding, and birth complications were collected. Statistical analysis involved Fisher exact tests with a significance level set at p<0.05.Results: Among the 192 participants, the frequency of enamel defects was 14.6% (n=27). Mild defects were observed in 5.21% (n=10), moderate defects in 3.13% (n=6), severe defects in 3.65% (n=7), and a typical restorations in 1.56% (n=3). Significant associations were found between enamel defect severity and paternal education (p=0.4) and medication use during lactation (p=0.039). No significant associations were found for maternal education, infection history, or birth complications with all P>0.05.Conclusion: The study found a 14.6% frequency of enamel defects among the study population. Paternal education and medication use during lactation were significant risk factors. These findings highlight the need for targeted preventive strategies and further research into the etiology of enamel defects.