Received by the Editorial Office: 28.05.2026
Accepted for publication: 8.06.2026
Published online: 30.06.2026
UDC: 616.314.13-007.23-084
DOI: 10.70113/1815-9443.2026.36.59.008
CLINICAL, MORPHOLOGICAL AND PATHOGENETIC APPROACHES TO THE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF MOLAR-INCISOR HYPOMINERALIZATION IN CHILDREN: A LITERATURE REVIEW
Ospanov S.K. ¹, Yermukhanova G. T. ², Kenzhe M.M. ²
¹ Kazakhstan Medical University “Higher School of Public Health”, Almaty, Kazakhstan
² Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Almaty, Kazakhstan
Background. Molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is one of the most common developmental defects of permanent enamel in children and is associated with dental hypersensitivity, post-eruptive enamel breakdown, an increased risk of dental caries, and reduced quality of life. Despite a substantial body of research, the etiology, early diagnosis, and optimal management strategies for MIH remain subjects of scientific debate.
Objective. To summarize current evidence on the prevalence, etiology, pathogenesis, clinical and morphological features, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of molar-incisor hypomineralization in children, and to identify future research priorities and opportunities for the implementation of clinical recommendations in the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Materials and Methods. An analytical review of scientific publications indexed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from 2015 to 2025 was conducted. The review included systematic reviews, meta-analyses, clinical studies, and international guidelines related to MIH.
Results and Discussion. The global prevalence of MIH is estimated at approximately 13–14% among children. The most likely risk factors include maternal illnesses during pregnancy, perinatal complications, infections, and febrile conditions in early childhood. Current treatment approaches comprise remineralization therapy, fissure sealants, adhesive restorations, stainless steel crowns, and orthodontic management. Promising directions include resin infiltration, biomimetic remineralization technologies, and novel methods for early diagnosis.
Conclusion. MIH remains an important interdisciplinary challenge in pediatric dentistry. For Kazakhstan, priority areas include epidemiological studies, development of national clinical guidelines, and enhancement of dentists’ knowledge and skills in the diagnosis and management of MIH.
Keywords: molar-incisor hypomineralization; MIH; enamel hypomineralization; children; pediatric dentistry; diagnosis; prevention; treatment.
