Key Points

  • Teeth shaving is a procedure that removes a tiny amount of enamel from the tooth.
  • Teeth shaving may be required before fitting Invisalign to ensure the aligner trays fit properly.
  • The benefits of tooth shaving include improved oral hygiene and a reduced need for tooth extraction to correct crowding.
  • There are risks associated with teeth shaving, including tooth damage, nerve exposure, and an increased risk of cavities.
  • A social media trend on TikTok encourages DIY tooth shaving, but this practice should be avoided as it can lead to permanent tooth damage or infection.
  • Your orthodontist can determine whether teeth shaving is a suitable addition to your orthodontic treatment plan.

It isn’t always necessary to have your teeth shaved before Invisalign treatment, but it is a common practice. After an evaluation, your orthodontist will have a better idea of which, if any, teeth need to be shaved. If you have severe crowding, you’re more likely to need teeth shaving or sanding. This procedure should only be performed by a trained orthodontist; never attempt it at home.

What Is Teeth Shaving?

For some people, the Invisalign journey begins with a procedure called enameloplasty, also known as teeth shaving, filing, or sanding. Other names for the procedure may include teeth slenderizing, interproximal reduction (IPR), and teeth contouring. The goal of this procedure is to ensure that aligners fit snugly and comfortably by narrowing the teeth. It is typically painless and doesn’t require numbing or anesthesia.[1]

How Is Teeth Shaving Done?

A trained orthodontist must perform the tooth shaving procedure. Despite recent social media trends, it’s not safe to perform this procedure on your own.[2] Prior to the procedure, x-rays of the mouth must be taken to determine which teeth need to be shaved and by how much.

The orthodontist will then use abrasive strips to shave a small amount of enamel from the teeth, reducing their size by just fractions of a millimeter. This is a delicate process, and even a small mistake could result in exposing the tooth’s nerve. After the procedure, the dentist or orthodontist may apply a fluoride treatment to strengthen the remaining enamel and protect the nerves of the teeth.

Benefits of Tooth Shaving for Invisalign Treatment

Teeth shaving might sound like a method of torture, but this relatively painless procedure can offer several benefits. The benefits of tooth shaving may include:[3]

  • Separating crowded teeth so they have room to move into the correct position
  • Improving oral hygiene by making it easier to floss between teeth
  • Eliminating the need for tooth extraction in some cases
  • Contributing to a beautiful smile once you’re done with clear aligners
  • Helping teeth remain straight and smooth after Invisalign treatment

Risks of Teeth Shaving for Invisalign Aligners

There are some risks associated with tooth shaving that should be considered. You can discuss these with your orthodontist beforehand so that you can properly weigh the risks and benefits. Some dangers of tooth shaving include:[4]

  • Teeth shaving can make teeth more vulnerable to cavities, especially if a significant amount of the enamel is removed.
  • Damaging the tooth is possible, especially for teeth that are already cracked or fragile.
  • Removing enamel can cause tooth sensitivity.
  • Once enamel is removed from a tooth, it cannot regrow. Any damage is permanent.
  • Tooth shaving may increase the risk of tooth decay and weaken the tooth.
  • Neighboring teeth may be accidentally impacted.

Why You Shouldn’t File Your Own Teeth

A recent TikTok trend encouraged young people to file their own teeth for reshaping or cosmetic purposes. This may lead one to believe that it’s okay to shave your own teeth prior to Invisalign treatment. This is a dangerous misconception.

Shaving or sanding your own teeth only increases the existing risks and creates new ones. Some of the reasons not to take on the task of shaving your own teeth include:[5]

  • Using unsanitized tools introduces bacteria to the mouth and can cause infection.
  • It’s irreversible.
  • An untrained eye and lack of specialized tools increase the risk of error, including shaving too much enamel off, shaving the wrong teeth, or changing your bite, for example.
  • Applying too much pressure can cause your teeth to crack or chip.

Talk To Your Orthodontist For The Best Care Plan

If you have further questions or concerns about tooth shaving for Invisalign or any other orthodontic treatment, please ask your orthodontist. They’ll be happy to share any information that could help you make informed decisions about your oral health. Additionally, they can evaluate your smile and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Contact Kunik Orthodontics for a free consultation today.

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