Prevalence of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization Among Children Aged Eight to 12 Years on Asthma Medication in Chengalpattu District, India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH), a defect in enamel development, is linked to early childhood illnesses. While respiratory infections correlate with increased MIH risk, the independent contribution of associated medications, particularly antibiotics, remains unclear, creating a significant knowledge gap. Aim The aim of the study is to investigate the prevalence of MIH in children aged eight to 12 years from Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu, India, who used asthmatic medication during their first three years of life. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Chengalpattu district, examining 266 children aged eight to 12 years who had used asthmatic medication in their first three years of life. MIH was assessed using the European Archives of Pediatric Dentistry (EAPD) diagnostic criteria, and data were collected via structured questionnaires and clinical examinations at Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics software, version 24 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Chi-square and Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests were employed to assess categorical data and normality, respectively, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results A significant association (p < 0.001) was found between asthmatic medication use and MIH. Specifically, corticosteroid inhaler use was linked to a range of MIH clinical presentations and lesion severities, while beta-2 agonists combined with antihistamines were associated with more severe lesion extents. Conclusion This study concludes that a significant association exists between asthmatic medication, particularly corticosteroid inhalers and beta-2 agonist/antihistamine combinations, and MIH severity in children. Developing and implementing targeted oral health strategies, including early dental surveillance and preventive interventions, is crucial for mitigating MIH in asthmatic children.