Minimally Invasive Dentistry

The goal of minimally invasive dentistry, or microdentistry as it is sometimes called, is to conserve healthy tooth structure. It focuses on prevention, remineralisation and minimal dentist intervention. Minimally invasive dentistry allows dentists to perform the least amount of dentistry needed while never removing more of the tooth structure than is required, to restore teeth to their normal condition. In addition, dentists use long-lasting dental materials that conserve the maximum tooth structure so that the need for future repairs is reduced. First the dentist determines your risk of tooth decay after which he can strategize on how to prevent or reduce this risk. The techniques involved can include remineralisation using fluoride, air abrasion using a stream of air combined with a super-fine abrasive powder, sealants which seal the deep grooves, inlays or onlays which require less tooth removal than crowns, or bite splint for people who grind their teeth.