• Molar Incisor Hypomineralization
• MIH
• orthodontic band

Background: First Permanent Molars affected by extensive forms of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH-FPMs) are susceptible to post-eruptive breakdown (PEB) and caries from the early stages of eruption.
Aim:This retrospective cohort study evaluated the effectiveness of orthodontic bands luted with glass-ionomer cement (GIC) in preventing dental caries and PEB in extensively yellow-brown defective MIH-FPMs.
Design: Records of 11 children, with 22 MIH-FPMs treated using GIC bands, and 22 controls with 22 MIH-FPMs treated exclusively through mineralization protocols, were examined by two calibrated evaluators. Selection of teeth relied on intraoral photographs, excluding incomplete records. Included FPMs had extensive yellow-brown defects and were devoid of caries, dentin breakdown (DB), and prior restorations. Kaplan-Meier
analysis established survival probabilities at 6 months, 1 year, and 18 months. The primary outcome was the absence of restoration requirement due to caries or DB. Secondary outcomes encompassed PEB prevention and reduction in the plaque index.
Results: At 6 months, study/control survival rates were 100%/94%, and between 6 and 18 months, 98%/73%. The difference was significant (p<0.001; Log Rank test). The control group had a higher enamel breakdown frequency. The study group showed a reduced plaque index (p: 0.010; Friedman test). In the study group, the average number of orthodontic band retention losses was 0.1 ± 0.3, and the mean number of GIC
reapplications was 1.9 ± 1.0.
Conclusions: Orthodontic bands with GIC and stringent preventive measures can effectively maintain MIH-FPMs for at least 18 months. Orthodontic bands may allow the postponement of more comprehensive restorative approaches.