The use of air abrasion and glass ionomer cements in microdentistry

Microdentistry principles are based on the early control of and intervention in the effects of the caries process. Once a decision to treat a lesion has been made, a further understanding of the biomechanical functioning of the tooth in relation to anatomical structures is required. Preservation of these structures requires the development of skills to allow the preparation of minimally invasive cavity designs. This may involve learning to use magnification, air abrasion, caries detection dye, or a diagnostic laser. Autocure glass ionomer cements complement minimally invasive cavity designs. The preservation of healthy tooth structure using noninvasive treatment techniques or minimally invasive cavity designs is now one of the primary goals of modern operative dentistry.