IPR Question (tight teeth)

[Carolyn]

So I was thinking... people justify IPR by saying that if the teeth were in "proper contact" the amount the ortho shaves off would have worn away anyway... What about if your teeth were pretty tight/straight to begin with? Wouldn't that normal amount already have been worn off before you started? My ortho had to put spacers between my teeth so he would have room to do IPR; is it still okay/safe? I'm concerned maybe that's why it was so uncomfortable for me...

[myhollywoodsmile]

If you don't have the IPR the teeth can't move past each other to get into their final position so Invisalign won't work. It also helps to create space in your mouth for all of your teeth to sit perfectly straight without extractions.

I wouldn't worry too much about whether it is safe for your teeth. I'm sure your ortho has done it many times, did you ask why you needed it?

[Carolyn]

I know why they use IPR, I've just realized the rationale behind its safety doesn't seem to work as well when someone has tight teeth. And maybe that's why it took 15 minutes and hurt me when it took 2 mins for other people I've asked, pain-free. ..which is not so reassuring.

[Sunny]

The rationale behind IPR is to remove a small amount of enamel to make space to allow teeth to be straightened. The alternative is to have teeth removed, but this generally makes a lot more space available than is necessary. In a few cases one or two teeth do need to be removed, but this is rare.

I've had IPR between teeth that were tight, but they were loose due to my ortho treatment having been going for some time. Maybe your teeth weren't loose and the 'tight' fit made it harder. Talk to your ortho about this and find out from the expert why it took so long and you felt it hurt.

Good luck!

[MCOMarkhamOrthodontist]

The time required for the IPR is going to depend on the number of places the IPR is required, the teeth involved, as well as the patient.

Anaesthetic of any kind is not recommended for IPR. There should be little to no discomfort when the enamel is removed. If you are numb, it is possible to remove enough enamel to make you sensitive when the freezing wears off.