[Influence of cavity preparation on mechanical resistance of teeth]

Classic cavity preparations involve significant removal of tooth structure. This has the potential for reducing the overall resistance of the tooth and puts the tooth at risk for fracture in the future. In this paper the pertinent scientific literature is reviewed and various techniques of evaluating the resistance of teeth to fracture are discussed in comparison to a new method developed at the University of Minnesota. Based on the results obtained by this new method, the authors present conclusions supporting the clinical advantages of using a more conservative restorative treatment.