What defines a "conservative restoration"?

A conservative restoration is characterized by an approach that minimizes the removal of healthy tooth structure while effectively addressing decay or damage. The narrowed occlusal isthmus width reflects this principle, as it indicates that only the necessary amount of tooth material has been removed to restore the tooth’s function and aesthetics, preserving more of the original tooth structure.

This approach is essential for maintaining the integrity of the tooth and for promoting better long-term outcomes, as it reduces the likelihood of complications such as pulp exposure and the need for more extensive treatments in the future. In contrast, broader isthmus widths or deeper boxes can indicate a more invasive approach that removes more tooth structure than necessary. A shallow restoration that remains above the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) might not be conservative if it involves significant alteration of the tooth surface or does not adequately address the decay.

Focusing on minimizing intervention while still achieving a sound restoration defines the essence of conservative dentistry, thereby making a narrow occlusal isthmus width a hallmark of conservative restoration practices.