Prevalence of molar incisor hypomineralisation among school children in a Nigerian rural community

Background: Molar incisor hypomineralisation is a qualitative defect of enamel. The diagnosis of molar incisor hypomineralisation is clinical and it can be challenging to manage. Objective: To determine the prevalence of molar incisor hypomineralisation among public school children aged 12 – 15 years in a south-eastern Nigerian rural community. Methodology: A cross sectional descriptive study of 12-15 year old school children was done in a rural public technical college and three public secondary schools selected in Nkanu–West and Udi local Government Area of Enugu State respectively. Socio-demographic data was obtained using semi--structured questionnaire. Tests of association between dependent variables and independent variables were conducted using Fisher’s exact test. Inferential analysis to determine predictors of molar incisor hypomineralisation was done using logistic regression analysis (binary). Statistical analysis was done using SPSS Version 25. P values ≤ 0.05 were accepted as being statistically significant. Results: One hundred and forty (47.3%) males and one hundred and fifty six (52.7%) females were seen and examined. The mean age of the children was 13.56 ± 1.1. The prevalence of molar incisor hypomineralisation was 2.4%. Molar incisor hypomineralisation was seen more in males than females. There was no significant association between MIH, sex (p = 0.71) and age (p = 0.59). There was significant association between MIH and socioeconomic status (p= 0.05). Socio-economic status was a predictor for molar incisor hypomineralisation (P = 0.04, OR = 0.20, 95% CI = 0.043- 0.944) Conclusion: Molar incisor hypomineralisation can affect the quality of life of children. Visit to dental clinic is recommended.