What is IPR?

IPR is a common procedure that takes place either just before or in the middle of a patient’s orthodontic treatment. To learn more about IPR and how it’s used, read on!

What is the IPR?

IPR stands for interproximal reduction, and it’s a technique that reduces the size of teeth in preparation for orthodontic treatment. You might have also heard of this procedure referred to as tooth or dental stripping, which is also a commonly used name. This method is an effective way to create more space and is only performed on patients who require it.

Why do you need IPR for aligners?

Not every patient needs it, but it is used frequently in cases where patients have a moderate degree of teeth crowding. The procedure reduces the teeth’s width by about 0.2 to 0.5 millimeters. The sides of the teeth are slimmed to create space for them to adjust into their correct position. Patients who have severe crowding may have to consider extracting some teeth.

What is IPR for teeth for?

Although IPR has a number of different orthodontic functions, its main goal is to create more space by reducing the width of the teeth, thus avoiding extractions and aligning the smile with the natural structure of the patient’s mouth.

How to widen dental arch

The primary purpose of IPR is to make space within the dental arches so that the orthodontic devices, such as braces or aligners, can do their job. For patients with medium dental crowding, IPR is a good option because it works best in cases where only small gaps are needed to move the teeth to their correct positions. This procedure allows patients to retain their full set of teeth and avoid extractions.

Interproximal reductions are also used to help eliminate black spaces that can appear after orthodontic treatment. Black spaces are the small triangles that sometimes form between teeth near the gums. So, by reducing the width of the teeth, it gives the gums the room they need to grow and cover the black space.

What is a Bolton discrepancy? 

Incisor protrusion or a Bolton discrepancy occurs when the upper incisors sit in front of the lower incisors when we bite down. Reducing the size of the upper lateral incisors when they’re disproportional to the lower incisors is the most recommended option, and it's done by using the stripping technique. This condition is also known as a Bolton discrepancy, and it’s also common to use IPR dental procedures to reduce incisor protrusion. 

IPR or tooth extraction: which is better

Above, we briefly mentioned the difference between interproximal reduction and tooth extraction, and it’s a frequent concern among patients. IPR is designed to evade the need for extraction before braces or aligners. By shrinking the tooth by a few millimeters, the orthodontist gains enough space to work with to reposition the teeth. Extractions are usually used in cases with more complexity and severe crowding.

Interproximal reduction pros and cons

IPR is only recommended for patients who require a small amount of extra space in their dental arches. Only those with moderate crowding should use this method to solve their spatial problems.

This is a very common procedure in adult patients who have orthodontics, regardless of the type. Anyone with medium dental crowding and limited space for movement can benefit from IPR during their orthodontic treatment so that they can achieve a perfect smile.

•  IPR is usually very efficient in solving space problems and, if it is performed by a qualified professional, the procedure shouldn't cause major problems. 
• However, if you go to a clinic and the dentist or orthodontist does not have the necessary knowledge, it can be risky. 
• An unqualified person could remove excessive enamel, and the patient may face future problems. In order to avoid this, it is essential to visit a specialist with experience in dental stripping.

IPR side effects

Patients who require IPR or teeth stripping may experience some side effects. In the treated teeth, it can cause increased sensitivity and loss of healthy layers of the teeth. Because of this, some patients have reported that IPR does hurt, but normally only slightly and temporarily.

Additionally, it can only be performed on patients with perfect oral hygiene. It’s also necessary to measure the level of enamel that can be removed without affecting the stripping process.

How to do IPR for aligners

Understanding the before and after of interproximal reduction, or of any other procedure, is important. In the case of your teeth before and after IPR, here’s want you can expect:

• Before IPR is performed, the specialist needs to carry out a series of evaluations to understand the condition of each tooth. 
• Since each tooth doesn’t have the same level of enamel, they need to reduce it by around 0.25 millimeters.,
• After the procedure, the orthodontist polishes any rough areas to avoid cavities.

• You should take into account that an increased sensitivity to temperature after the procedure is normal. That’s why dentists advise against consuming cold drinks and recommend special toothpaste.

Do I need interproximal reduction?

At Impress, your health is our priority. That’s why we offer a completely free consultation where we look at your smile and offer you a full diagnosis, including whether or not you’ll need IPR. You can see the before and after results of some of our patients.

Come on in and visit us and find out all you need to know before starting clear orthodontic treatment. Get in touch with us by calling (888) 490 1421 or book your first consultation online.