Performing Interproximal Reduction with Strauss Diamond

Performing Interproximal Reduction with Strauss Diamond

Interproximal reduction, also known as IPR or “tooth stripping,” is the process in which small amounts of outer tooth enamel between two adjacent teeth are removed. This process becomes necessary when there is a need to make additional dental space to properly align teeth. This is especially beneficial when you are undergoing clear dental alignment work or need to reduce crowding in your mouth.

Interproximal reduction is an excellent option when you want to align your teeth but don’t necessarily need to extract any of them. Your dental specialist will examine your individual tooth alignment and advise you on the best course of action. 

How Does Interproximal Reduction Work?

Interproximal reduction is performed either by hand manually or by using one of Strauss’s automated instruments. Strauss has created four different solutions to interproximal reduction, which has now made IPR as easy as flossing. Your specialist will work manually with diamond-coated strips back and forth between your teeth in a process similar to filing nails or they can work with a diamond disc, specialty IPR diamond burs, or add a reciprocator to their diamond-coated strips making for them to be automated. This allows a very small part of your tooth’s enamel to be trimmed, creating additional space for fine orthodontic realignment. IPR doesn’t hurt; a tooth’s outer layer contains a thick layer of enamel and doesn’t contain nerve endings, making it a painless and effective procedure if you need to make small changes to align your teeth. 

After Your Interproximal Reduction Procedure

After your procedure, you will notice small gaps between your teeth. This is expected – after all, the entire point of the procedure is to make space for your teeth to adjust! While you might notice these gaps, other people will likely not see them as easily as you do – so don’t worry about your procedure being too obvious. As your treatment progresses, your gaps will become smaller and smaller until they close completely. 

IPR doesn’t change, damage, or hurt your teeth. Because your specialist only removes a minor amount of enamel, the procedure will not make your tooth appear noticeably thinner; it also will not result in an increased risk of sensitivity or tooth decay. This procedure has been in use for decades and has been studied extensively without any indication of increased dental problems. 

In rare instances, patients have noticed increased sensitivity, increased plaque, and other side effects after their interproximal reduction procedure. An experienced dental professional will help alleviate your concerns and work to minimize the chances of any adverse effects.