Abstract
Objective: To investigate, in the pertinent and evidence-based literature, the principles of minimum intervention and demonstrate in which cases they can be used in dentistry. Bibliographic Review: The philosophy of Minimum Intervention (MI) in the management of caries is not new, for years renowned researchers have demonstrated that it is possible to prevent and treat dental caries with the knowledge of its etiology and the mechanisms of evolution. Minimally invasive conducts are viewed, until then, with suspicion by the vast majority of dentistry professionals who, imbued with the best purposes, still treat the caries sequelae in the traditional way, less conservative and prone to increasingly complex procedures. It is difficult to change dogmas that have been incorporated for decades, since the concepts of predominantly curative dentistry, although evidence shows the opposite, remains being taught in universities. Final Considerations: The studies cited in this work maintain that it is possible to maintain decayed tissue, in deep cavities in the permanent dentition, in cases where complete removal of it may expose the pulp, compromising the vitality of the tooth.