Interproximal Reduction (IPR)

June 28, 2010 11:10 AM

Pros, cons and personal experience with interproximal reduction (IPR).

Considering having IPR on my four central incisors.

My orthodontist explained the purpose as 99% cosmetic/aesthetic and 1% less movement once the braces are off. I like my teeth fine (shape, arrangement) and the braces were meant only to keep one pesky tooth from migrating too far, not for a plastic-perfect smile, so I'm less than convinced.

I have looked up a few journal articles and the risks (sensitization, mostly) seem minimal. But still, is it worth it? Pros/cons/anecdotes?

posted by narcissus_and_ambrosia to Health & Fitness (2 answers total)

I had it done on the space between my two top front teeth. It was for cosmetic reasons and was the last step before my braces were to be removed. What I didn't know until it was too late was that it causes your teeth to migrate back and can then affect your bite. Now I'm on my third month of wearing elastics to try and correct it. I think the ortho also put some bend in my wire to try and push my front teeth back outwards. Anyway, not the end of the world, but something to consider.
posted by jmmpangaea at 11:51 AM on June 28, 2010

I recall it being incredibly unpleasant to have done. Most of my teeth have migrated in the 16 years since I had braces, thanks to retainers that were too painful to wear and and an orthodontist who refused to adjust them.
posted by fairytale of los angeles at 12:16 PM on June 28, 2010