What is Minimally Invasive Dentistry

Minimally invasive dentistry is designed around the idea that natural tissue is more important than any non-biological artifact. A dentist seeks to control decay and disease by using minimally invasive techniques to repair teeth and/or gum tissue. Dentists utilize magnification and other advanced techniques to remove as little natural tissue/bone as possible while performing dental procedures.

Minimally invasive dental procedures are meant to be comfortable and conservative. This means a patient should feel little to no discomfort during a dental appointment, and restorations should involve minor elimination of natural tissue(s).

Minimally invasive practices also dictate that dental professionals teach prevention and hygiene education in order to avoid dental problems – in other words, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

List of Non-Invasive Dental Procedures

Non-invasive, or minimally invasive, dentistry involves evaluating a patient’s risk of tooth decay by taking note of specific contributing factors. Then, a dentist will work with the patient to prevent decay from occurring by recommending preventative measures. When restorative dentistry is required, minimizing tissue loss while still treating the condition is the goal.

There are many procedures and methods which qualify as minimally invasive dentistry; below are just a few examples:

• Dental Sealants
• Invisalign
• Inlays and Onlays
• Bleaching
• Dentures
• Mini Dental Implants
• Laser Dentistry
• Air Abrasion
• Minimal Prep Porcelain Veneers
• Occlusal Guards

Minimal Prep Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a great way to improve the appearance of a patient’s smile when cleanings, bleaching, braces, or other treatments are not optimal. However, porcelain veneers typically involve removing some layers of natural teeth before application, a good deal of time, and anesthetic.

This is not the case with minimal prep porcelain veneers (or “No-Prep veneers”). Minimal prep porcelain veneers are actually placed directly within existing tooth enamel, which results in beautiful results without such invasive methods.

The Benefits

Minimally invasive dentistry is beneficial in a number of ways. Minimally invasive dental techniques relieve anxiety for many patients, help preserve tooth structure, and offer shorter recovery periods. These options are also more comfortable and more affordable than more invasive therapies.

Dentist Near Streeterville

Are you searching for a reliable dentist near Streeterville? At Chicago Dental Solutions, our team of prosthodontists have the extra experience and knowledge necessary to practice minimally invasive dentistry to its fullest potential. Call one of our dental offices to make an appointment, or schedule one online.