If you’ve started looking into Invisalign, there’s a good chance your orthodontist has mentioned something called teeth shaving or tooth filing. The word “shaving” might sound concerning at first.
But here’s the thing—it’s completely normal. Dentists do it all the time to make small adjustments before or during Invisalign treatment. Think of it like giving your teeth extra space so they can line up the way they’re supposed to.
In this guide, we will talk about what shaving actually means, why orthodontists do it, and what’s the before and after process.

Dr. Jonathan Petrover is the lead orthodontist at Petrover Orthodontics, serving patients in Boynton Beach and Wellington, Florida. With a focus on personalized care and advanced treatments, he helps children, teens, and adults achieve healthy, confident smiles.