Getting dental crowns is a common procedure that can improve the look and function of teeth. During the process, some tooth structure needs to be removed to make room for the crown. This leads many to wonder – do dentists shave down your teeth when placing crowns?
Do dentists shave teeth for crowns?
Yes, dentists do need to shave down teeth when preparing them for dental crowns. The purpose of shaving teeth for crowns is to remove any decay and create room for the crown material to fit over the remaining tooth structure.
Crowns fully cover the visible portion of the tooth above the gumline. If the natural tooth is not reduced in size, the crown would be bulky and not fit properly. Shaving the tooth allows the crown to restore a normal shape, contour, and function.
Why is tooth shaving necessary?
There are a few key reasons dentists need to shave down teeth before placing crowns:
- Removes decay – Any cavities or damaged areas are shaved away to leave only healthy, intact tooth structure.
- Makes room for crown – Enamel is shaved to create space for the crown material to cover the tooth.
- Allows proper fit – Shaving the tooth gives the crown a uniform thickness and comfortable fit.
- Permits proper contours – The remaining tooth structure provides shape for natural-looking crown contours.
- Allows accurate bite – Shaving allows room for bite adjustment and proper contact with other teeth.
In summary, shaving the teeth is an essential part of crown preparation and allows the crown to restore the tooth’s form and function.
How much tooth shaving is required?
The amount of tooth that needs to be shaved down depends on:
- Condition of the tooth – Heavily decayed or damaged teeth require more removal.
- Type of crown – More shaving is needed for thicker crown materials.
- Size of tooth – Larger teeth may require more shaving for proper crown contours.
On average, dentists remove 1-3 millimeters of outer enamel during crown preparation. This thin layer allows enough space for the new crown without excessively weakening the underlying tooth structure.
Does it hurt to shave teeth for crowns?
Having your teeth shaved for crown placement should not hurt with proper anesthesia. Here are some tips to ensure a comfortable procedure:
- Numbing medication is applied so you do not feel the shaving process.
- Your dentist will check that the area is fully numb before starting.
- Inform your dentist if you feel any sensitivity during the preparation.
- More anesthesia can be administered as needed to maintain comfort.
- A dental drill is used for smooth, gentle shaving and minimizing vibration.
- A smooth-edged diamond bur precisely cuts the enamel without pressure.
With proper numbing and technique, patients typically report little to no discomfort during the tooth shaving process.
What does it feel like to have teeth shaved down?
When your teeth are properly numbed before the shaving procedure, you should not feel any pain or significant sensation. Here is what you can expect to experience:
- Pressure or vibration as the bur smooths the enamel.
- A gritty sound and sensation from the dental drill.
- Coolness from air or water sprayed on the tooth.
- A chalky taste as enamel dust is suctioned away.
- Possible light tingling if the numbing starts wearing off.
Your dentist will work quickly and carefully to limit vibration and sensitivity. Many patients report it simply feels like a normal cleaning with the sensations of pressure and drill sounds.
What problems can occur from shaving teeth for crowns?
While a common procedure, some potential problems can arise from shaving teeth for crown placement. With proper precautions by your dentist, these risks are low.
- Tooth sensitivity – A thin layer of enamel remains, which is prone to temperature sensitivity temporarily.
- Pulp exposure – Removing too much tooth can expose or damage the nerve, requiring a root canal procedure.
- Cracks – Excess pressure while shaving can sometimes cause cracks in enamel.
- Fractures – Aggressive shaving leads to weakened tooth structure and potential fractures.
Experienced dentists use care during shaving to avoid these problems. Make sure to select a skilled dentist and alert them to any pain, cracks, or other issues right away.
Can teeth be shaved too much for crowns?
Yes, removing too much healthy tooth structure when preparing for crowns can lead to issues. Some key problems of over-shaving include:
- Weakened tooth and greater fracture risk
- Nerve damage or need for root canal treatment
- Excessive temperature sensitivity due to thin remaining enamel
- Aesthetic issues with discolored dentin showing through thin enamel
As a general guideline, no more than 2 millimeters of enamel should be removed during crown preparation. Removing less than 1 millimeter is ideal if possible based on the tooth’s initial shape.
Do they shave teeth for porcelain crowns?
Yes, shaving the teeth is required when preparing them for porcelain crowns. Porcelain crowns are custom-made to match the color of your natural teeth.
Here’s why dentists shave teeth for porcelain crowns specifically:
- Removes decay and creates room for the crown to fit over the tooth.
- Porcelain crowns require more tooth reduction since porcelain is thicker.
- Shaving allows the crowns to have proper contour and shape.
- The remaining tooth structure provides support for the porcelain.
In general, around 1.5-2 millimeters of outer enamel is reduced for porcelain crowns. The tooth shaving allows a natural shape, function, and fit.
Do they shave teeth for zirconia crowns?
Zirconia crowns are another popular crown option made from zirconium oxide. Like other crowns, teeth do need to be shaved down prior to placing zirconia crowns.
Reasons dentists shave teeth for zirconia crowns include:
- Remove decay and make room for the crown material.
- Zirconia is thick like porcelain and requires tooth reduction.
- Allows proper thickness for strength and aesthetics.
- Shaving provides shape for natural crown contours.
Around 1-2 millimeters of enamel is reduced for zirconia crowns. This allows the crowns to have proper thickness and durability.
Do they shave teeth for gold crowns?
Gold crowns do also require some tooth shaving, though often less than other crown types. Here’s an overview:
- Gold crowns can be thinner than porcelain options.
- Only about 0.5-1 millimeter of tooth shaving is required.
- This thin reduction minimizes tooth weakening.
- The remaining structure provides support and retention.
- Shaving still needed for proper contours and occlusion.
In summary, dentists do shave teeth for gold crowns as well, just not as much as other materials. This conservative reduction makes gold a good option when wanting to remove minimal tooth structure.
Conclusion
While an important part of the dental crown process, having your teeth shaved down does not need to be uncomfortable. With proper numbing, an experienced dentist, and smooth technique, patients generally report little to no pain during the tooth preparation process. Being informed and communicating any concerns can help ensure the procedure goes smoothly.