What should be considered when performing enameloplasty in the presence of significant undercuts?

When performing enameloplasty in the presence of significant undercuts, it is crucial to be cautious because there can be potential complications associated with the procedure. Enameloplasty involves the removal or alteration of the enamel to improve contour or fit for restorative procedures. Significant undercuts can complicate this process, as removing enamel in these areas may not resolve the underlying issues they pose, such as inadequate retention or stability for a removable partial denture.

Performing enameloplasty indiscriminately in areas with significant undercuts risks further compromising the tooth's structural integrity and could lead to an improper fit of the denture. Moreover, the procedure may inadvertently weaken the tooth or cause sensitivity by exposing dentin, which can lead to long-term complications for the patient.

Considering these factors, it is generally advisable to approach enameloplasty with caution in the presence of undercuts to avoid these potential issues and to weigh the benefits against possible adverse outcomes.