Editing Tooth enamel (section)

=== Dental restorations ===

Most [[dental restoration]]s involve the removal of enamel. Frequently, the purpose of removal is to gain access to the underlying decay in the [[dentin]] or inflammation in the [[pulp (tooth)|pulp]]. This is typically the case in [[amalgam (dentistry)|amalgam]] restorations and [[endodontic therapy|endodontic treatment]].

Nonetheless, enamel can sometimes be removed before there is any decay present. The most popular example is the [[dental sealant]]. In the past, the process of placing dental sealants involved removing enamel in the deep fissures and grooves of a tooth, followed by replacing it with a restorative material.<ref>Summitt ''et al.'', p. 273</ref> Presently, it is more common to only remove decayed enamel if present. In spite of this, there are still cases where deep fissures and grooves in enamel are removed in order to prevent decay, and a sealant may or may not be placed depending on the situation. Sealants are unique in that they are preventative restorations for protection from future decay, and have been shown to reduce the risk of decay by 55% over 7 years.<ref>Summitt ''et al.'', p. 274</ref>

Aesthetics is another reason for the removal of enamel. Removing enamel is necessary when placing [[Crown (dentistry)|crowns]] and [[Veneer (dentistry)|veneers]] to enhance the appearance of teeth. In both of these instances, when unsupported by underlying dentin, that portion of the enamel is more vulnerable to fracture.<ref>Summitt ''et al.'', p. 7</ref>