Latest news with #Molar-IncisorHypomineralization
Jordan News
14-05-2025
- Health
- Jordan News
Vitamin D Deficiency: The Silent Killer of Children's Tooth Enamel? - Jordan News
One of the recently identified conditions in the field of dentistry is Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH). This disorder was officially recognized in 2001 by Professor Henrik Weerheijm and his research team at the Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA) in the Netherlands, through their groundbreaking study that described the condition for the first time. This marked the beginning of growing awareness around the issue of enamel hypomineralization in children. اضافة اعلان Understanding the Possible Causes Since then, MIH has become a major subject of interest in medical and scientific circles. Researchers are striving to uncover its potential causes—ranging from environmental to genetic factors—while also working on effective treatment strategies for its associated symptoms, such as severe tooth sensitivity and increased risk of cavities. This ongoing research is helping to shed light on the mechanisms of the condition and how to prevent it. Is Vitamin D the Main Culprit? Recent studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency during childhood is a key risk factor for developing MIH. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in regulating the absorption of calcium and phosphorus—two minerals that make up more than 90% of tooth enamel. Evidence from Labs Around the World: Saudi Arabia, Japan, Switzerland Switzerland: A 2024 study from the University of Zurich, led by Professor Benjamin Sluska and published in BMC Oral Health, found that vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of MIH by up to 43%. Saudi Arabia: A 2023 systematic review published in Children – MDPI, led by Dr. Ahmed Al-Ali from King Abdulaziz University, confirmed that low vitamin D levels at birth are associated with a higher risk of developing MIH. Australia: In a 2025 study published in Clinical Oral Investigations, Dr. Sophie Hammond showed that sun exposure during a child's first two years reduces the risk of MIH by 38%. Japan: A 2024 study from Osaka University, led by Dr. Yamamoto and published in the Paediatric Dental Journal, warned against the early use of antibiotics, which can negatively affect vitamin D levels and increase the incidence of MIH. USA: A 2023 study by Columbia University, published in BMC Oral Health, found that children with vitamin D deficiency are 22% more likely to suffer from dental caries, especially in primary teeth. A Global Epidemic: Alarming Numbers A global study led by Dr. Wenjundong Zhao from Anhui Medical University in China (2017), published in the International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry, revealed that 12.9% of the world's children are affected by MIH, with rates as high as 20% in parts of South America. The author of this article suspects even higher prevalence in the Arab world, pending a major upcoming study by King Saud University's College of Dentistry on MIH epidemiology in Gulf Cooperation Council countries. The devastating effects of this condition are not just cosmetic—it can affect nutrition, mental health, and cause dental fear from an early age due to the need for intensive dental treatments at a very young age. The Rescue Plan: Protecting Children's Teeth Starts Today In its 2025 annual report for World Oral Health Day (March), the World Health Organization recommended the following steps to protect children from MIH: Early diagnosis: Visit the dentist before age 6 and before the eruption of permanent teeth. Sun exposure: 15 minutes of daily sunlight (under medical advice). Vitamin D screening: Test and supplement if deficient—particularly important in Arab countries, where despite abundant sunlight, up to 90% of people are deficient due to sun avoidance. Preventive care: Regular fluoride use and periodic dental checkups. Advanced treatments: Use of resistant fillings or crowns (ceramic or metal) for advanced MIH cases. Final Word Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization is not merely about white spots—it may be an early indicator of a serious vitamin D deficiency that threatens bone development and overall health. Prevention starts from day one of a child's life, through proper nutrition and consistent exposure to sunlight.
Kuwait Times
06-05-2025
- Health
- Kuwait Times
IDAK's scientific symposium ‘DentEdge' concludes
Indian Dentists' Alliance in Kuwait (IDAK), in association with Kuwait Dental Association (KDA), held its prestigious 5th International Scientific Symposium (ISS) at the Al-Hashmi Ballroom, Radisson Blu Hotel on April 25, 2025. The event was accredited for 8 CME points with Kuwait Institute for Medical Specializations (KIMS). The symposium, titled DentEdge: Current Paradigms in Dentistry, brought together over 300 practicing dentists in Kuwait. Dr Jagan Kumar Baskaradoss, the chairman of the Scientific Committee, welcomed the speakers, dignitaries, and participants to the event and officially inaugurated it. The full-day event featured three prominent international speakers – Prof Dr Monty Duggal, Prof Dr Gunaseelan Rajan and Dr Siju Jacob - and a local speaker, Dr Manal Abu AlMelh. Prof Dr Monty Duggal, the Dean of College of Dentistry, Qatar University is a world-renowned pediatric dentist, started the event with an excellent presentation on Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH). His presentation comprehensively covered the topic, including the clinical characteristics, etiology, and management of MIH patients. Dr Gunaseelan Rajan, a trailblazer in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Director of Rajan's Institute in Chennai, India, spoke about zygomatic implants, presenting clinical cases managed in his clinic, which captivated the audience and left everyone spellbound. Dr Siju Jacob, Director of The Microscope Training Center in Bangalore & New Delhi, India, showcased how microscopes could be part of everyday general dental practice. Dr Jacob captivated the audience with his enchanting presentation skills. Lastly, Dr Manal Abu Al-Melh, Associate Professor in College of Dentistry at Kuwait University, presented on the topic of 'painless orthodontics,' effortlessly combining her personal experiences with evidence-based research findings into clinical practice. The 1st Dr David Gnanashekar Oration, in memory of the Founding President of IDAK, was delivered by Dr Monty Duggal, who spoke about managing long-term complications of severe dento-alveolar trauma in adolescents using bone augmentation and auto-transplantation. His lecture helped raise awareness about this relatively new technique to replace missing teeth. The chief guest for the felicitation ceremony was Dr Jaber Al-Taqi, Director of Dental Administration, Ministry of Health. Dr Fahad Al-Zoubi, Chair of the Faculty of Dentistry, Kuwait Institute for Medical Specializations (KIMS), and Dr Adel Al-Asfour, Former Dean and Chairman of the Department of Surgical Sciences, College of Dentistry, Kuwait University, were the 'Guests of Honor' for the event. Dr. George P Alex, President of IDAK, welcomed the dignitaries and the audience and outlined IDAK's achievements in past symposiums. The Scientific Committee chairman Dr Jagan Kumar Baskaradoss, introduced the speakers and session chairpersons to the dignitaries and highlighted the importance of this symposium. Dr Fahad appreciated IDAK for successfully conducting the symposium, which he believes helps to disseminate knowledge to busy dental practitioners in the country. He also spoke about his close links with India and Indian colleagues in his address. He expressed his happiness over the high standard of the symposium. IDAKonnect, a members directory edited by the membership committee headed by Dr Tiny Elsa Thomas, was released during the function by Dr Jaber Al Taqi, who handed the first copy to Dr Fahad Al-Zoubi. President Dr George P Alex complimented the membership committee for bringing out the members directory, the first in the last 12 years, and said it would enable the members to stay connected more meaningfully.
