Minimally Invasive Dentistry

Minimally invasive dentistry, or microdentistry, is a concept based on conservation of healthy tooth structure. It focuses on prevention, remineralization, and minimal dentist intervention for the treatment of dental caries. The minimally invasive concept bridges the traditional gap between prevention and surgical procedures and involves removal of minimum amount of tooth structure and use of long-lasting adhesive dental materials that conserve the maximum tooth structure so that the need for future repairs is reduced. With the development of new dental restorative materials and advances in adhesive dentistry, a better understanding of the caries process and the tooth's potential for remineralization, the management of dental caries has drifted from a surgical approach to a preventive approach.