If you are soon going to attend your first orthodontic appointment, you may be eagerly looking forward to achieving a straighter, healthier smile. You have an exciting time ahead of you! Before you embark on your journey with clear aligners or braces, however, your orthodontist might recommend that you undergo a procedure called interproximal reduction (IPR). The prospect might seem a little intimidating at first, but there is no need to worry. This quick preparatory procedure can play a large role in helping you enjoy successful orthodontic treatment.
What Is Interproximal Reduction?
“Interproximal” is a word used to describe the area between teeth. Interproximal reduction is a procedure wherein a bit of tooth enamel is shaved off in order to widen the interproximal space. This is done with the use of special tools that can slide in between the teeth and shape them in the way that the dentist or orthodontist desires.
Interproximal reduction is a common preparatory step before an individual begins orthodontic treatment. This procedure has been in use since the 1940s, and it has a well-established track record of making teeth-straightening endeavors easier and more successful.
When Is Interproximal Reduction Necessary?
Interproximal reduction may be recommended for you if you do not have enough space between your teeth for your Invisalign aligners or other orthodontic appliances to fit properly. This is often true of people who suffer from overcrowding in their dental arches.
Benefits of Interproximal Reduction
Here are some noteworthy benefits of interproximal reduction:
- In some cases, this procedure is able to create enough space in the mouth for orthodontic appliances without the aid of extractions. In other words, it can allow you to keep all of your teeth!
- After you complete your orthodontic treatment, your teeth will be more likely to remain in their proper places.
- It can improve the shape of teeth and contribute to improved occlusion (a better, more harmonious bite).
What to Expect from Interproximal Reduction
The idea of having the sides of your teeth shaved might seem a little scary, but there is nothing to be afraid of. Here are a few notes on what you might expect from the procedure:
- Your dental team will take care to remove only as much enamel as absolutely necessary.
- The majority of people have enough tooth enamel that removing a small amount will not significantly increase the risk of dental problems.
- Tooth enamel does not contain nerve endings, so you may feel very little during your IPR procedure. Your dental team will take steps to make you as comfortable as possible.
- IPR yields consistently positive results. A portion of patients experience an increase in dental sensitivity after the procedure, but this issue is usually easy to manage with sensitivity-reducing toothpastes and other measures.
Interproximal reduction might seem a little nerve-wracking, but keep in mind that it can play an important role in helping you to enjoy easy and successful orthodontic treatment!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Amin Mason is the board-certified orthodontist at Columbus Orthodontic Center. He and our team are proud to offer a broad range of treatments, including clear aligners, traditional braces, and more. If you have questions about interproximal reduction or any other part of the orthodontic treatment process, we would be pleased to speak with you. Contact us at 614-549-5835.
