Minimally invasive dentistry

  • N. H. F. Wilson
UK: Quintessence price £55.00; pp 168 ISBN 032304574X | ISBN: 0-323-04574-X

Although not a new concept, this attractively presented book is concise yet very informative on this increasingly relevant and important clinical practice. The book captures the quintessential content of the last two ConsEuro conferences held in Munich (2003) and Rome (2006). Although a multi-author pan-European book, its leading editor, Nairn Wilson, is an internationally renowned figure. He has considerable experience of teaching and research with expertise in restorative dentistry and dental materials science. The general aim of this book is to promote a rethink and adoption of current restorative practices in the management of caries and to leave outdated principles.

The 12 relatively short chapters cover a very wide range of material from caries prevention to its diagnosis and the current restorative materials in use. It also incorporates special tests, cavity preparation and the management of exposed dentine and pulp. There are chapters devoted to the 'Ageing Patient' and 'The Future' which are important inclusions.

The text is written in a clear and concise manner and takes the reader through an orderly explanation. It is well supported by the inclusion of excellent coloured photographs, graphs and tables and general diagrams. A very valuable feature is the evidence-based research findings that are outlined in virtually all the chapters relating to that subject. This will prevent readers from having to assimilate large amounts of existing literature, which the authors themselves rightly acknowledge. The chapters summarise all new techniques and procedures in the management of caries that are not taught in detail as an undergraduate and this is where its strength lies. A simple example is the 'The diagnosis of caries', where it takes the reader from initial clinical examination methods to radiographic imaging to fluorescence methods. The overall standard of presentation and quality of content is very good.

The book is targeted at all practitioners, teachers and mainly postgraduate students. In the last decade, there have been so many changes in the field of cariology and thus this book is an apt reminder where the future will and should lie ie in the minimal interventive management of caries.