What is the minimal axial reduction required for crowns?

The minimal axial reduction required for crowns is 1.5 mm. This amount of reduction is crucial because it allows for adequate space for the crown material to achieve both sufficient strength and a good fit. A reduction of 1.5 mm helps ensure that the crown can be properly contoured to mimic the natural anatomy of the tooth while also being thick enough to resist fracture and wear during normal function.

In restorative dentistry, achieving the right amount of axial reduction is vital for several reasons, including maintaining the health of the underlying tooth structure, ensuring proper alignment with adjacent and opposing teeth, and allowing for proper retention of the crown. Lesser reductions would not provide enough material thickness, potentially leading to issues with durability and aesthetics, while greater reductions might compromise the integrity of the remaining tooth structure. Therefore, 1.5 mm is established as a standard for minimal axial reduction in crown preparations.