Methods: A questionnaire, based upon a previous European study, was mailed to all Australian members of the Australia and New Zealand Society of Paediatric Dentistry. The questionnaire sought information on clinical experience of MIH, knowledge of prevalence, aetiology and contemporary management strategies for MIH.
Results: 124 useable responses were received, a 55.6% response rate, of which 34 were from paediatric dentists, 61 general dentists, 14 dental therapists and 14 specialists in other fields. Most (98.4%) respondents were familiar with MIH and encountered it in their practice. The majority (73.4%) estimated MIH occured in 5-25% of their clinical practice and almost all (96.8%) considered it to be a clinical problem. Only 17.7% of respondents were aware of existing prevalence data and 96.8% valued investigating the prevalence of MIH. No consensus existed regarding the aetiology of MIH or its restorative management. Paediatric dentists used preformed crowns significantly more than non-specialists however glass ionomer cements were popular with all groups.
Conclusions: MIH is a well-recognised and widely encountered clinical condition. MIH presents several clinical problems and is worthy of further investigation. Currently no consistent clinical management strategies are utilised.