Purpose and objectives

Minimal Intervention Policy can be used as a practical aid for dentists to apply the latest diagnostic and treatment efforts in their vital quest to maintain natural teeth and enhance occlusal and masticator functions, thus improving patients’ quality of life. We are already on the frontline of a hyper–ageing society with all the concomitant challenges for society, healthcare and budget. A target of ‘‘80–20’’ should be set – meaning that at the age of 80 a person should still have at least 20 natural teeth – and this guideline uses evidence and consensus, along with the principles of minimal intervention (MI), and suggests clinical practice that will promote this aim[10].

Background to the development of the guideline

Dentistry has made remarkable advances recently, especially in cariology, and in improved dental materials and techniques. New methods of treatment of caries actively incorporating these advances have been developed, with a strong body of evidence in support of their success. Achievement of the important 80–20 goal would be greatly helped by increased use of these new treatments based on the concept of MI and diminished use of traditional drilling and filling treatment, which often involve removal of large amounts of healthy tooth structure. Nevertheless, MI treatment of caries has often been done without relying on the substantial body of evidence of best methods and practices. The result is that different, sometimes conflicting, treatments have been chosen, leading to considerable confusion amongst students and clinical interns in dental educational institutions, not to speak of confusion and fear on the part of patients receiving treatment.