Note: This article is for general information purposes and does not replace individual dental advice.
Chalky teeth – known in dentistry as molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) – are a developmental disorder of the tooth enamel that mainly affects the permanent molars and incisors in children. The affected teeth are softer, more porous and more sensitive than healthy teeth and can show whitish-yellow to brownish discolouration.
What are chalky teeth?
In chalky teeth, the enamel is not sufficiently mineralised – it contains too little calcium and phosphate. As a result, it is softer than normal enamel and in extreme cases can have the consistency of chalk, hence the name. The affected teeth are not only altered in appearance but are also considerably more prone to tooth decay and can hurt when touched or when the temperature changes.
According to estimates, MIH affects around 10 to 15 per cent of all children in Germany. Studies rank MIH among the most common dental conditions in childhood.
Recognising the symptoms of chalky teeth
- Discolouration: Whitish, yellowish or brownish patches on the teeth that cannot be brushed away
- Sensitivity: The teeth react sensitively to hot, cold or sweet foods
- Porous surface: The enamel can be rough and uneven
- Enamel breaking off: In severe cases, parts of the enamel can chip off, especially on the chewing surfaces
- Pain when brushing: Affected children often refuse to brush because it hurts
Chalky teeth typically become visible when the permanent teeth come through at the age of 6 to 8. Less commonly, milk teeth can also be affected.
Causes of chalky teeth
The exact causes of MIH have not yet been conclusively established. The disruption to enamel development probably takes place between the 8th month of pregnancy and the 4th year of life – the phase in which the enamel of the permanent teeth is formed.
The following are discussed as possible causes and risk factors:
- Illnesses in early childhood: Frequent infections, high fever, pneumonia or bronchitis
- Taking antibiotics: Certain antibiotics in the first years of life
- Environmental pollutants: Bisphenol A (BPA) and plasticisers in plastics are under suspicion
- Lack of oxygen at birth
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Complications during pregnancy
Treatment of chalky teeth
Treatment depends on the severity of the MIH:
Mild cases (discolouration, slight sensitivity)
- Intensive fluoride treatment: Regular application of high-dose fluoride varnish at the dental practice protects the weakened enamel
- Desensitisation: Special pastes and varnishes can reduce sensitivity
- Sealing: The chewing surfaces and fissures are sealed with a protective varnish to lower the risk of decay
Moderate cases (loss of tooth substance)
- Fillings: Chipped or decayed areas are restored with tooth-coloured composite fillings
- Build-up fillings: Severely damaged chewing surfaces can be built up with composite
Severe cases
- Steel crowns: For severely damaged molars, preformed steel crowns can protect the tooth
- Extraction: In rare, very severe cases, removing the affected tooth can be advisable – ideally within the right time window, so that the wisdom tooth or orthodontic measures can close the gap
Tips for parents
- Early and regular dental visits: From the first tooth onwards, visit the dentist for children – this way, chalky teeth can be detected early
- Fluoride toothpaste: From the age of six, toothpaste with 1,450 ppm fluoride is recommended; if the risk is high, we discuss a higher dose with you
- Soft toothbrush: Reduces pain when brushing
- Patience: Chalky teeth are often painful for children. Encourage your child to brush their teeth, even if it is uncomfortable – good oral hygiene is particularly important with MIH
- Limit sugar consumption: Damaged enamel is particularly prone to decay
- Frequent check-ups: See the dentist every 3 to 6 months to keep an eye on the teeth
Chalky teeth at our practice in Düsseldorf
At our dental practice, we treat chalky teeth in children and adolescents. Our team treats young patients with sensitivity and tailors the treatment to the severity of the MIH. We draw up a long-term treatment plan and monitor your child closely.
This article is for general information purposes and does not replace professional dental advice. If you have symptoms, please contact your dentist.
