If you are soon going to get Invisalign, you may be excited, and understandably so. After all, this treatment can enhance your smile and reduce your oral health risks. However, you may be less enthusiastic if your dentist tells you that you will have to get your teeth shaved. This process, formally known as interproximal reduction (IPR), can seem a little scary at first — but it is nothing to worry about! Let’s talk more about what it is and why it is so important.
What Is Interproximal Reduction?
“Interproximal” is a term used to refer to the area between teeth. Interproximal reduction, therefore, involves removing a bit of enamel from the teeth in order to create more space between them. This is accomplished with the aid of special tools that can slide into the interproximal spaces and shape the teeth in a way that the dentist desires.
Interproximal reduction is often used as a preparatory step for orthodontic treatment. This procedure has been around since the 1940s, and it has a proven track record of making orthodontic care easier and more successful.
Why Is Interproximal Reduction Necessary?
Interproximal reduction may be necessary if you do not have enough space between your teeth for your Invisalign aligners to fit properly. This is often true of individuals who suffer from mild to moderate crowding in their dental arches.
IPR offers some important benefits:
- In some cases, it is able to create enough space in the mouth for orthodontic appliances without the need for extractions. In other words, it can help you keep all of your teeth!
- After the completion of your orthodontic treatment, your teeth will be more likely to stay in their proper places.
- It can improve the shape of teeth and help you enjoy improved occlusion (bite).
What to Expect from Interproximal Reduction
The prospect of having your teeth shaved might seem intimidating, but there is nothing to worry about. Here are a few notes on what to expect from the procedure:
- Your dentist will be careful to remove only as much enamel as necessary.
- Most people have enough enamel that shaving off a small amount will not increase the risk of oral health problems, such as cavities and gum disease.
- Tooth enamel doesn’t have nerve endings, so you can expect to be comfortable during your IPR appointment.
- The outcome of IPR is consistently positive. Some patients experience increased sensitivity afterward, but this is manageable with sensitivity-reducing toothpaste and other means.
Interproximal reduction might sound a little nerve-wracking, but in reality, there is no reason to be afraid of it! In fact, it can play a big role in making your Invisalign treatment as easy and successful as possible.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Erin Page is the leader of the team at Capital Smiles. She is proud to offer Invisalign. She recommend interproximal reduction only when it is truly necessary. To learn more about her and how we may be able to serve you, contact our office at 518-374-0317.