Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation? Don’t Panic - Here’s What to Do

So, you’ve just returned home from the dentist, and they’ve mentioned something that sounds a little overwhelming - Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation (MIH). 

Although this might sound alarming at first, don’t worry - it’s perfectly manageable, and we’re here to help guide you through it.

brush-baby Explains: What is Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation (MIH)?

MIH is more common than you might think. It happens when your child’s first adult molars, and sometimes their front teeth (the incisors), don’t develop properly - particularly when it comes to the enamel.

Basically, the tooth enamel is softer or patchy in spots, which makes the teeth more sensitive, more prone to decay, and sometimes more difficult to brush. But here’s the good news: there’s loads you can do to help your little one to keep their smile healthy and strong.

First things first: don't blame yourself

MIH happens while the teeth are developing under the gums, often before you even know your child’s teeth are forming. It's got nothing to do with brushing habits, sugar, or your parenting. It’s just one of those things - the cause isn’t even fully understood yet.

So, what can you do now?

This is where your toolkit of awesome dental care products comes in. Keeping your little one’s teeth clean and comfy is key.

1. Choose the right children’s toothbrush
A soft-bristled kids toothbrush is your best friend here. Go for one with a small head that can get into those tricky molar areas without causing discomfort. Explore our range of brush-baby kids toothbrushes here.

2. Toddler toothpaste for the win
Look for a children’s toothpaste with fluoride - like our popular brush-baby AppleMint children’s toothpaste. The fluoride helps strengthen the enamel and protect those weaker spots. Go for a pea-sized amount of kids’ fluoride toothpaste and use a kids toothbrush to ensure a deep clean of their teeth.

3. Start early with baby gum wipes
Prevention starts young. Even before the first tooth pops through, use our brush-baby baby gum wipes to gently clean your little one’s mouth. It helps keep gums healthy and gets your child used to having their mouth cleaned  - making brushing down the line way easier.

4. Help through teething
Let’s not forget about teething - which can already make little ones fussy about brushing. Combine MIH sensitivity with sore teething gums and you’ve got a recipe for resistance. Keep things comfy and engaging by using a teething toy like our Bobbie Bunny teether. When it comes to brushing, a little creativity goes a long way - try using songs, a fun routine, or even a silly dance to make it a more enjoyable experience.

5. Regular check-ups matter
Always stick to your dentist appointments. They’ll keep an eye on those MIH teeth and may recommend extra treatments like protective coatings or fluoride varnishes. Catching things early is everything.

You've got this!

MIH can be tricky, but with a little extra TLC and the right kids toothbrush and childrens toothpaste combo, you’re setting your little one up for a healthy smile.