What is Interproximal Reduction (IPR) and why you might need it
So, your dentist mentioned something called “Interproximal Reduction” (IPR), and you’re wondering what it’s all about? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. IPR is actually a pretty common dental procedure, especially if you’re considering invisible braces. But why might you need it? Let’s break it down.
If your teeth are crowded, there may not be sufficient space for your teeth to move into alignment. Your teeth will start getting in their own way as they move into new positions. As such, more space needs to be created so that your teeth can shift correctly.
One common dental procedure is Interproximal Reduction (IPR), where small amounts of enamel are removed from the sides of adjacent teeth to create space. This helps to correct crowding or alignment issues by making room for teeth to move into their proper positions.
An IPR is performed by your treating dentist using specialised tools, and is considered a safe and effective method for improving dental alignment. Just think of it as a little extra nudge to help your teeth get where they need to be!
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be taken as medical advice. Please consult with your treating dentist for medical advice specific to your condition. Zenyum does not provide medical advice and our systems are doctor-directed treatments.
Ways to create space for your teeth to move
1. Interproximal Reduction
The first way is through Interproximal Reduction where your treating dentist may use diamond strips, burs, discs or a specialised tool to shave the sides of your teeth and teeth enamel. IPR only shaves off between 0.1 to 0.3 millimetres of your enamel on each side of the tooth. The enamel on your teeth is generally about 2.5 mm thick, so no need to worry about losing it all.
For clear aligners, IPR is generally preferred over teeth extraction because your treating dentist has more control over the amount of space created. However, if a substantial amount of space is needed, your treating dentist may recommend teeth extraction instead.
Looking to get started with your clear aligner journey? Take a Zenyum smile check to get an understanding of your teeth condition. Your treating dentist can then advise if IPR is necessary or not for your Zenyum clear aligner journey!
2. Teeth Extraction
The second way is to extract a few teeth if more space needs to be created. Before you put on braces, your treating dentist will examine your teeth and advise whether IPR or teeth extraction is required.
While IPR shaves off up to a maximum of 0.25 mm of your enamel on each side of your tooth for most cases, if you have very little interproximal enamel, your treating dentist may advise you not to undergo IPR and go down the tooth extraction route instead.
Creating gaps between your teeth may be recommended by your treating dentist based on their analysis of your teeth condition. This also applies for Zenyum clear aligners after consulting with your treating dentist. Your Zenyum aligner journey starts with a simple assessment to understand the current alignment of your teeth and how it can be improved!
This sounds scarier than it actually is! In some cases, extracting a tooth or two might be necessary to create enough space for your other teeth to move. Before you start your braces journey, your dentist will examine your teeth and decide whether IPR or tooth extraction is the way to go.
For most people, IPR is the better option because it’s less invasive, but sometimes, extraction is the best way to achieve that dream smile. Your dentist will guide you on the best course of action, and with Zenyum, you’ll start your clear aligner journey with a thorough assessment to understand exactly what your teeth need.
What happens during IPR?
Your treating dentist may use a dental drill with a diamond-coated bur or disc at the end. He or she will run it along the sides of your teeth to shave off your enamel.
Alternatively, your treating dentist may use a diamond-coated strip and run it back and forth along the sides of your teeth to file them down.
Do not be alarmed if there are noticeable gaps in your teeth after your IPR procedure. These gaps will close up when you start wearing invisible braces and your teeth start to shift into their new positions for your best smile.
Now, if you notice some gaps in your teeth after the procedure, don’t panic! These gaps are supposed to be there. As you start wearing your invisible braces, your teeth will begin to shift, and those gaps will close up, leaving you with a beautifully aligned smile.
There you have it! The ins and outs of IPR – not so scary, right? Just lay back in the dentist chair, and let your dentist take care of the rest. After all, you can rest easy knowing your mouth is going to have enough room for your teeth to take up their positions for a sparkling new smile.
So, just relax and let your dentist take care of the rest. After all, you can feel confident knowing that your teeth will have the room they need to move into their best positions.
Is IPR painful?
The good news is that IPR isn’t painful! There are no nerve endings in the outer enamel of your teeth, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. You might feel some pressure, though, which can feel a bit like teeth polishing.
And don’t worry about your enamel—only a small amount is removed, which means you won’t experience any tooth sensitivity or an increased risk of tooth decay afterward. It’s a win-win situation!
Ensuring your IPR dental procedure is safe
While IPR itself is a straightforward procedure, it’s important to have a trusted expert performing it. Zenyum works with an extensive network of partner dentists to ensure that you get the best Smile Journey experience possible. Most dentists have experience in IPR or would undergo a training programme to familiarise with the system.
As part of Zenyum’s onboarding process, the dentists undergo a training programme to familiarise with the system. Patients are then given the choice to select which clinic or dentist they would like to start their Zenyum journey with. Patients are encouraged to stay with the same dentist throughout their journey for a holistic treatment.
In short, with Zenyum, you can expect:
- Experienced and highly trained experts: We partner with dentists who are skilled in IPR for aligner treatment.
- Precise tools for controlled enamel reduction: Your treating dentist uses advanced tools to ensure minimal enamel removal.
- Continuous upskilling: Our network of partner dentists is constantly growing and improving, ensuring you get top-notch care.
At Zenyum, we’re committed to providing you with a clear and comfortable path to your dream smile. If you have any further questions about IPR or your Zenyum Smile Journey, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team!
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