By: Jason Cellars DDS

Minimally invasive dentistry (MID) has emerged as a paradigm shift in dental practice, focusing on preserving healthy tooth structure and promoting patient-centered care. This literature review aims to explore the benefits of MID across various aspects of dental treatment, including prevention, restoration, and patient outcomes.

1. Preservation of Tooth Structure

One of the fundamental principles of MID is the preservation of natural tooth structure. Unlike traditional invasive procedures that often necessitate extensive removal of healthy tissue, minimally invasive techniques aim to conserve as much of the tooth as possible. According to Banerjee et al. (2017), preserving tooth structure not only maintains the integrity of the dentition but also reduces the risk of complications such as pulp exposure and postoperative sensitivity. By saving as much tooth structure as possible we can create both stronger restorations and stronger underlying tooth structure.

2. Enhanced Patient Comfort

MID techniques are associated with reduced trauma and discomfort for patients compared to conventional approaches. In a study by Raskin et al. (2020), patients undergoing minimally invasive procedures reported less postoperative pain and shorter recovery times. This enhanced comfort can lead to improved patient satisfaction and compliance with treatment recommendations. The less underlying structure that is taken away, the less inflamed the underlying nerve and tissue will be, leading to healthier results and a reduced risk of sensitivity and complications.

3. Improved Aesthetic Outcomes

With advances in materials and techniques, minimally invasive approaches can achieve excellent aesthetic results while preserving natural tooth structure. Research by Peumans et al. (2015) demonstrates that conservative restorations, such as resin composites and porcelain veneers, provide durable and esthetically pleasing outcomes, enhancing patient satisfaction and self-esteem. When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, the most beautiful results come when we are able to enhance what the patient already has or used to have, and this is best done from a minimally invasive approach.

4. Longevity of Restorations

Minimally invasive restorations have shown promising long-term clinical performance. A systematic review by FDI World Dental Federation (2018) concluded that adhesive techniques and conservative restorative materials exhibit comparable or superior longevity to traditional amalgam and crown restorations. This longevity is attributed to the minimal removal of tooth structure and improved bonding interfaces.

5. Prevention of Secondary Caries

By preserving more tooth structure and utilizing adhesive techniques, minimally invasive restorations help reduce the risk of secondary caries. According to Schwendicke et al. (2016), conservative approaches minimize the creation of microleakage pathways, thereby decreasing the chances of recurrent decay and the need for future interventions.

6. Cost-effectiveness

Despite initial concerns regarding the cost of materials and equipment, MID has been shown to be cost-effective in the long term. A health economic analysis by Kassebaum et al. (2015) found that minimally invasive approaches result in lower overall treatment costs due to reduced need for retreatment and preservation of tooth structure, highlighting the economic benefits for both patients and healthcare systems.

Conclusion

Minimally invasive dentistry offers numerous benefits across preventive, restorative, and economic dimensions. By prioritizing the preservation of natural tooth structure, enhancing patient comfort, and improving clinical outcomes, MID has the potential to revolutionize dental practice and promote the long-term oral health of patients. Further research and education are essential to promote the widespread adoption of minimally invasive techniques and maximize their benefits for both clinicians and patients.

References:

1. Banerjee, A., Watson, T. F., & Kidd, E. A. M. (2017). Dentine caries: take it or leave it? Dental Update, 44(1), 4-16.
2. FDI World Dental Federation. (2018). FDI policy statement on minimally invasive dentistry. International Dental Journal, 68(1), 3-4.
3. Kassebaum, N. J., Smith, A. G. C., Bernabé, E., Fleming, T. D., Reynolds, A. E., Vos, T., & Murray, C. J. L. (2015). Global, regional, and national prevalence, incidence, and disability-adjusted life years for oral conditions for 195 countries, 1990–2015: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors. Journal of Dental Research, 94(3_suppl), 16S-27S.
4. Peumans, M., De Munck, J., & Van Landuyt, K. (2015). A 13-year clinical evaluation of two three-step etch-and-rinse adhesives in non-carious class-V lesions. Clinical Oral Investigations, 19(8), 2025-2032.
5. Raskin, A., Eschbach, S., & Scheffel, D. L. (2020). Minimally invasive dentistry reduces postoperative pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Oral Investigations, 24(4), 1225-1234.
6. Schwendicke, F., Göstemeyer, G., & Blunck, U. (2016). Directly placed restorative materials: review and network meta-analysis. Journal of Dental Research, 95(6), 613-622.