Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

When replacing an anterior crown, what is the required incisal reduction?

1. 1 mm

2. 2 mm

3. 3 mm

4. 4 mm

The correct answer is: 2 mm

The required incisal reduction when replacing an anterior crown is typically around 2 mm. This amount of reduction ensures adequate space for the material being used for the new crown, allowing for sufficient strength and esthetics. Reducing 2 mm allows for the creation of a crown that is not only durable but also provides a natural appearance by mimicking the original anatomy of the tooth. This reduction is also critical for avoiding issues such as insufficient thickness in the crown that could lead to fractures or esthetic concerns. If less reduction occurs, the final crown may end up being too thin, compromising its strength and the resultant esthetics. Conversely, excessive reduction might lead to unnecessary loss of tooth structure and potential exposure of vital structures. Thus, a reduction of around 2 mm strikes a balance by ensuring the restoration is effective while preserving tooth structure.