Summary: From the mainly reparative dentistry of the 20th century, contemporary dentistry shifts towards a minimal Intervention (Ml) approach encompassing up-to-date caries diagnosis and risk assessment before arriving at a treatment decision. An overview is provided of incorporating Ml philosophy into the field of operative dentistry. The ultimate goal of Ml is to extend the lifetime of restored teeth with as little intervention as possible. When operative care is indicated, it should be aimed at ’prevention of extension. Black’s principles for cavity design are considered and put in the perspective of minimally invasive operative care. Guiding principles for contemporary adhesive cavities are reviewed. Conclusion: Contemporary operative care should be based on a minimally invasive approach. Minimal intervention is not just a technique, it is a philosophy!