This chapter is dedicated to the foundation of conservative dentistry: the treatment of dental caries through proper mechanical preparation. Operative dentistry teaches the essentials: how to correctly excise affected tissues and prepare the tooth for restoration while preserving its biomechanical strength.
In this section, we examine in detail the basic principles of preparation and the classical technique for working with carious cavities of all six Black classes. You will study the specifics of forming Class I and II cavities (posterior teeth) as well as the aesthetically demanding Class III, IV, V, and atypical Class VI cavities. A separate module covers modern preparation methods—from air-abrasion to laser treatment—allowing for maximum tissue preservation.
During practical classes and exams, examiners are strictest when evaluating knowledge of the sequential steps of preparation, the rules for creating resistance and retention forms, and the ability to justify the choice of bur for a specific cavity class. These algorithms are not just theory, but your daily routine in phantom lab and, subsequently, in clinical practice.