A Little Goes a Long Way: Everything You Need to Know About Interproximal Reduction (IPR)

When you decided you were ready to straighten your teeth, the clear choice (literally) was Invisalign. It offers all of the benefits of traditional braces while being more comfortable and discreet, but in order to get it, some patients have to undergo a procedure called interproximal reduction, or IPR. While this sounds like a mouthful, it’s actually a quick and painless process that helps your dentist give you the smoothest experience and best result possible—here’s how it works.

The Basics of IPR

Orthodontic treatment, whether you get Invisalign or braces, works by slowly moving the teeth into their desired positions. Of course, for this to happen, the teeth need room to shift! But some patients might be lacking this all-important space, especially those who have crowding.

IPR is used to create the space necessary within the mouth for the teeth to make their journey toward their new, better orientation.

This is done by removing a tiny, tiny amount of enamel from specific teeth (often the incisors on either side of your front teeth). It is performed either manually or with small handpieces and can be completed in a single appointment, giving your smile the “breathing room” it needs to respond to Invisalign.

Is Interproximal Reduction (IPR) Painful?

The short answer is no! Because only a few millimeters of enamel are sanded off, patients describe feeling a little pressure during the procedure, but nothing that resembles pain.

Will I Need IPR?

No, IPR is not always needed for a patient to start Invisalign. It’s entirely dependent on the size and starting position of the teeth relative to where the treatment will move them. Your dentist will determine if it’s necessary after taking several images of your dentition, consisting of multiple X-rays, scans, and photographs. This will help them plan your treatment down to the smallest, most exacting detail, which will make it clear whether or not IPR is required. Thankfully, the procedure can usually be completed in a single visit and doesn’t take very long.

Essentially, IPR helps your dentist ensure that the Invisalign process will give you exactly what you want efficiently–a straight, attractive smile that you’re eager to show off. It doesn’t add to the overall treatment timeline—just think of it as a small step toward a beautiful result you’ll enjoy for a lifetime to come.

About the Practice

At McComb Family Dental, you’ll be looked after by a team of experienced dental professionals capable of addressing any kind of oral health concern you might have, no matter how complicated. We’ve already helped many patients enjoy the straighter, healthier smiles they desire using Invisalign, and we’re eager to do the same for you!

If you have any questions about Invisalign or IPR, or you would like to schedule a consultation, we can be reached through our website or by phone at (419) 293-2335.