Which statement about MID's role in reducing conventional drilling is most accurate?

• A. MID aims to reduce the need for conventional drilling
• B. MID eliminates drilling altogether
• C. MID increases drilling
• D. MID has no effect on drilling

Answer: (A)

Minimally invasive dentistry focuses on preserving natural tooth structure by using preventive, remineralization, and micro-invasive strategies to manage caries and early lesions. This approach reduces the need for conventional drilling because it emphasizes detecting problems early and treating them with less invasive methods (such as remineralization, sealants, resin infiltration, and conservative restorations) rather than removing large amounts of tooth structure. Drilling is not eliminated, and some cases will still require conventional drilling when lesions are advanced or restoration is necessary. So, saying that MID aims to reduce the need for conventional drilling best captures its purpose and approach.