A dental disease that was once considered rare is now being seen in far more children.
According to the Daily Mail, as cited by LADBible, the condition affects around one in six children.
The condition is called Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation (MIH).
It was first described in the 1980s and has since become more common across several parts of Europe.
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Enamel becomes weaker
With MIH, tooth enamel does not develop normally.
It contains fewer minerals than healthy enamel, making the teeth weaker.
According to the Daily Mail, this can lead to discoloration, increased sensitivity, and teeth that are more prone to breaking.
The condition is usually detected when the permanent teeth begin to emerge at around six years of age.
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Some children have damage to only one tooth, while others experience problems affecting several teeth, Professor Greig Taylor of Newcastle University told the Daily Mail.
The cause remains unknown
Researchers have investigated whether factors such as vitamin D deficiency, high fever in early childhood, and complicated births may play a role.
However, there is still no definitive explanation.
Experts also stress that the condition is not caused by excessive sugar consumption or poor toothbrushing habits.
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The problem develops while the teeth are forming early in a child's life.
As a result, children can develop damage to their teeth even if they maintain good oral hygiene, Professor Helen Rodd of the University of Sheffield told the Daily Mail.
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