Background: Minimally invasive dentistry (MID) encompasses early caries diagnosis through caries risk assessment, early detection of incipient carious lesions including primary and secondary prevention based on scientific evidence that remineralization of demineralized enamel and dentin is possible if detected early. Although the dental curriculum focuses on the advantages of MID in tooth preservation, this science is not usually translated into practice. So, this study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practice of minimal intervention dentistry among a group of dental interns. Materials and methods: A questionnaire based survey which consists of 14 questions was used for the study. The descriptive survey was conducted among 232 dental intern students. Results were entered in Microsoft Excel and analysed using SPSS software version 23.0. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to report the responses. Results: Majority (98%) of the dental interns were aware of MID. About 97% and 80% have adequate knowledge about pit and fissure sealant application and fluoride application respectively. But only 38% and 29% have practised slot preparation and chemomechanical caries removal methods. According to the statistics, there is no significant difference between gender and the practice of chemomechanical caries removal methods. (Chi-square; p value = 0.06, not significant). Conclusion: Interns exhibited adequate knowledge and positive attitude which they acquired through their undergraduate curriculum, but it did not create positive behaviour towards practising MID. Hence, it may be suggested that there ought to instil positive behaviour among students in order that they practise MID routinely.

minimally invasive, interns, dental caries, innovative technique, dentistry