Differential diagnoses of enamel hypomineralisation in an archaeological context: A postmedieval skeletal collection reassessment

Abstract

Developmental enamel defects (DDE) are often used as indicators of general health in past archaeological populations. DDE include three common types of lesions: hypoplasia, diffuse, and demarcated opacities. Molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) was defined in 2001 as a qualitative enamel defect affecting first permanent molars and often permanent incisors. The European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry established criteria to diagnose MIH in current populations as demarcated white or yellow-brown opacities of enamel with or without posteruptive breakdown. MIH is prevalent in current populations (average 14.2%) and may cause important damage to first permanent molars. Aetiological factors are..