Conservative treatment of the Class I lesion: a new paradigm for dentistry.
BACKGROUND
A shift is occurring in dentistry that involves a change from reliance on gross mechanical instrumentation of dental caries to early diagnosis and treatment of the bacterial infection that causes caries.


METHODS
The author explores the topic of minimally invasive dentistry, and cites several studies that offer scientific evidence of the effectiveness of this approach. The author also examines the role of third-party payers, who are reluctant to provide reimbursement for sealants or treatment of incipient caries.


CONCLUSIONS
As dentists embrace a new paradigm in the treatment of the Class I lesion, they are beginning to acknowledge their role as clinical cariologists with the means to accurately assess the extent and threat of existing disease, determine the appropriate clinical response, provide minimally invasive treatment and unambiguously describe services rendered.


CONCLUSIONS
As evidence-based protocols become more widely accepted, dentistry will have the necessary tools to interact with third parties, which also are struggling to cope with and adapt to an emerging standard of care.
Hudson
Philip
P
Center for Advanced Technology, Spokane, Wash. 99208, USA. DrPhilHudson@Qwest.net
D003188:Composite Resins; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000191:economics / Q000382:microbiology / Q000628:therapy*; D003732:Dental Caries Activity Tests; D003737:Dental Cavity Preparation / Q000379:methods; D003793:Dental Restoration, Permanent / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D019458:Insurance Coverage; D007347:Insurance, Dental; D007778:Lactobacillus / Q000472:pathogenicity; D007834:Lasers; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures; D010895:Pit and Fissure Sealants / Q000191:economics; D013295:Streptococcus mutans / Q000472:pathogenicity
D003188:Composite Resins; D010895:Pit and Fissure Sealants