Minimal Intervention Dentistry

It is suggested that the term “minimal intervention dentistry” be adopted as the overall description of the concept of modern operative dentistry. The rationale behind the suggestion of this term comes from a dictionary definition of the chosen words and they were selected as a result of a series of discussions with a number of interested parties between 1999 to 2002.

The following are the significant words and their description :-

“minimal” = very small in amount or extent; smallest possible in amount or least possible in extent; relating to or displaying attributes associated with minimalism.

“intervention” = an action undertaken in order to change what is happening or might happen in another’s affairs, especially in order to prevent something undesirable.

There have been a number of variations of this terminology suggested but it is apparent that the above words are the most logical and explain the intention clearly and concisely. The intention of minimal intervention dentistry is to treat the patient for the disease of caries in the simplest manner possible commensurate with the problems diagnosed in that patient’s oral environment. The term does not define or limit the extent of the treatment in any way. It simply suggests that the least complex treatment is generally the most desirable and prevention is better than cure. The use of the word “intervention” covers all types and complexities of treatment without specifying the method. Specifically it allows for treatment both with and without surgical intervention and recognises that non-surgical treatment is just as important as preparation of a cavity.