What is the fourth principle of minimal intervention?

• A. Minimal restorative intervention
• B. Repairing rather than replacing defective restorations
• C. Early diagnosis/Caries Risk Assessment
• D. Remineralization for early lesions

Answer: (B)

The fourth principle of minimal intervention dentistry is to repair rather than replace defective restorations. When the tooth is otherwise sound, opting to repair preserves more of the natural tooth structure, reduces how much healthy dentin needs to be removed, and lowers the risk of weakening the tooth or causing pulp irritation. Repair approaches can include smoothing or sealing defects, bonding new material to the existing restoration, or patching areas with minimal additional tooth preparation. This aligns with the MID goal of treating only what is necessary and maintaining maximum tooth integrity.

Other aspects like early diagnosis and caries risk assessment, or remineralization for early lesions, are essential components of caries management and prevention, but they address detection and noninvasive treatment rather than the specific action of managing a defective restoration by repair.