Molar Hypomin
Molar Hypomin is short for Molar Hypomineralisation which is a developmental dental defect that affects mainly the molar teeth.
What does Hypomin look like?
Normally, the enamel on a tooth is white and very hard, but in patients that have molar hypomin, the enamel can be chalky (creamy-yellow/brown or extra-white patches). The texture is often rough and soft. In more severe cases, teeth may start crumbling away altogether, or end up with a hole in them.
What are the causes of Molar Hypomin?
Unfortunately, there is still no definite cause for hypomineralisation. However, research has shown a higher risk of Molar Hypomin as a result of illness in infants that may damage the developing tooth. It could be the result of an illness, or the medication that was used. More research is needed in this area to be conclusive.
What are the effects of Molar Hypomin?
Molar Hypomin can cause the teeth to be soft and porous (chalky) and in turn, may lead to the tooth to start to crumble away. This can lead to a higher risk of sensitivity.
Hypomin is different to decay, but the rate of both co-existing is high. This is due to the fact that teeth that are affected are generally soft and porous, and therefore the acid that leads to decay can progress rapidly. Therefore, patients that have molar hypomin may have a greater risk at decay.
What treatment options are there available?
A few common treatment options are available including:
Sensitive toothpaste such as Sensodyne or Sensitive Pro Relief may be beneficial in helping with the sensitivity that may occur as a result of the Hypomin.
Fissure Sealants are a preventative treatment option which involves cleaning the tooth and coating the tooth with a resin that help prevents food and bacteria in the pits (fissures) of the tooth.
GC Tooth Mousse can be applied every evening or twice a day (in severe cases) after tooth brushing. Tooth Mousse is a topical creme with calcium phosphate and fluoride. There are a range of flavours including mint, strawberry, vanilla, tutti-frutti and melon. We sell tooth mousse at the clinic for $25.
If you have any concerns that you or your child may suffer from Molar Hypomin, please bring them in for a dental check-up. A check up with the dentist or oral health therapist is the first step in treating the condition. They will be able to answer all your questions, and provide you with a personalised treatment plan with all the options and their recommendations.
You can call us on (02) 8411 2674 or book your appointment online now.
