Interproximal Reduction (IPR)

Why: Interproximal reduction is the mechanical removal of a small amount of outer tooth surface, called enamel, between teeth. Dr. Hammer uses IPR to help gain enough space to straighten your teeth and improve your bite. If the space required is small, then it can be achieved by IPR of several teeth. This, sometimes, can create enough space to avoid the need for extracting teeth. IPR can also be done to reshape teeth or to help close a “dark triangle” space between your teeth that sometimes appears as gums recede with age.

What to Expect: Enamel is the material that makes up the outer shell of our teeth. It does not contain any nerves and so minimal discomfort is felt. As only a very thin layer of enamel is removed, no anesthetic is required. You may, however, feel a strange pulling/ pushing pressure during the procedure. Dr. Hammer will only remove the minimum amount of enamel required for your treatment. Each tooth will be left with enough enamel to continue to remain healthy and sound. Studies have shown that the decay rates of teeth that have had interproximal reduction are no higher than normal teeth.

How Often: IPR only takes a few minutes to complete and can be done in a single visit or spread over several
visits.