MOLAR-INCISOR MALFORMATION: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: “Molar-incisor malformation” (MIM) or “Molar root-incisor malformation” is a recently reported dental anomaly of unknown etiology, possibly associated with systemic complications, which affects the development of first permanent molar roots and dental enamel of central incisors. Objective: To conduct a literature review on “Molarincisor malformation”, also known as “Molar root-incisor malformation”, discussing its clinical, radiographic/tomographic and microscopic aspects; differential diagnosis and treatment possibilities. Sources of data: Electronic search was performed on the MEDLINE database in March 2021, without limit regarding the year of publication. The terms used were “molar-incisor malformation”, “molar-root incisor malformation”, “root malformation”, “root development”, “tooth roots”, “abnormalities”. Synthesis of data: Fifteen articles, most of them case series, were included. In general, medical historyrevealed clinical complications during pregnancy and / or the first years of life. Clinical features included tooth enamel defects in the cervical region of incisors and marked mobility of permanent molars and incisors. Radiographically, partially obliterated pulp chambers, short, thin and incomplete roots of first permanent molars and incisors, were observed. Microscopically, the occurrence of a hypercalcified dentin layer, in the form of a lens, inside the pulp chamber, at the level of the cementum-enamel junction, called“mineralized cervical diaphragm”, was reported. Conclusion: “Molar-incisor malformation” is an anomaly characterized by changes in root development, pulp chamber and enamel in permanent molars and incisors. The differential diagnosis includes Dentin Dysplasia type I and Regional Odontodysplasia. Medical and familyhistories are essential for the final diagnosis, and treatment, which despite not having an established protocol, requires a multidisciplinary approach and conventional treatments such as tooth extraction, endodontics, orthodontics, and dental implants.