The occlusal matrix technique allows the recording of anatomical details of the remaining tooth structure before starting cavity preparation, enabling the reestablishment of the original tooth morphology by means of an occlusal matrix. The objective of this study was to report a clinical case of dental rehabilitation by the occlusal matrix technique using a temporary restorative in pediatric dentistry. This research is an observational descriptive study (committee, nº 6.906.292). The work was conducted in the city of Mato Verde, Minas Gerais, at Faculdade Verde Norte (FAVENORTE). A 7-year-old female patient, together with her guardian, attended the FAVENORTE Dentistry clinic for dental care, complaining that her tooth had some “dark spots”. During the clinical examination, it was observed that tooth 46 had an active carious lesion on the occlusal surface in a region of pits and fissures with shadowing in the underlying dentin (ICDAS – Score 4), but with relatively intact occlusal anatomy. Interproximal radiographic examination showed that the carious lesion was in the dentin, but not close to the pulp. Due to the preservation of the occlusal anatomy of the tooth, the proposed treatment for the patient was the use of the occlusal matrix technique, selective removal of carious tissue, and restoration with composite resin, aiming to restore form and function. The occlusal matrix technique has proven to be an effective and efficient approach in the rehabilitation of carious lesions on occlusal surfaces, especially in pediatric patients. The technique allowed the faithful reproduction of the original anatomy of the tooth, which is essential for the maintenance of masticatory function, esthetics and occlusal integrity.