Global Incidence OF MOLAR HYPOMINERALISATION

Given the high prevalence of Molar Hypomineralisation in many countries, it seems reasonable to conclude that the number of children affected worldwide is worryingly large.

In a forthcoming report by members of The D3 Group, the global incidence of children with hypomineralised 6-year molars is projected to exceed 12 million new cases per year [1]. This projection was based simply on the proportion of 6-year-olds in the Australian population and an average global population prevalence of 15% (per 120 studies worldwide). Noting that underprivileged populations have exceptionally high prevalences of dental defects (including Molar Hypomineralisation, read more), it seems likely that our estimate for global incidence is conservative.

Such a high incidence suggests that, at morbidity level, Molar Hypomineralisation makes a significant contribution to the global burden of disease. To quantify this morbidity burden and its impacts on society, the lifelong health risks and economic costs of Molar Hypomineralisation need to be considered.

1. MJ Hubbard et al., manuscript in preparation

Some more reading

• A complex modelling analysis, using adjustments based on country-specific demographics, predicted a global incidence of 17.5 million new cases of hypomineralised 6-year molars annually. About a quarter (27%) of these children were judged to have immediate treatment needs for dental pain and/or crumbling enamel/decay (read more).