hypomineralized

Hypomineralized is an adjective used in biology and medicine to describe tissue in which mineral content is reduced or deposition is incomplete during development. In dentistry, hypomineralization most often refers to enamel that has normal thickness but lower mineral content, resulting in softer, more porous enamel with altered translucency and discoloration.

In enamel, hypomineralization is contrasted with enamel hypoplasia, which is a quantitative defect (less enamel) rather than a qualitative defect. A well-known dental example is molar–incisor hypomineralization (MIH), which affects first permanent molars and incisors with demarcated opacities that may progress to breakdown and sensitivity. Hypomineralization can increase caries risk and wear, and may complicate restorative treatment. Other enamel defects can resemble fluorosis or amelogenesis imperfecta, requiring clinical differentiation and sometimes genetic testing.

Causes are heterogeneous and not always fully understood. Potential factors include systemic illnesses, high fever during tooth development, premature birth, malnutrition, hypoxia, and environmental exposures. The etiology of MIH, in particular, is considered multifactorial, with possible genetic susceptibility interacting with environmental triggers.

Diagnosis relies on visual examination and, when indicated, radiographs to assess enamel integrity and the presence of dentin exposure. Management emphasizes prevention, timely sealing of hypomineralized surfaces, and conservative restorations. Adhesive techniques, microabrasion, and, in more extensive cases, indirect restorations or crowns may be used.

Outside dentistry, hypomineralization may describe bone conditions such as osteomalacia and rickets, where defective mineralization leads to softened bones, often related to vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate deficiencies.