Overview: This guide provides clinicians with the necessary equipment list and step-by-step clinical instructions to perform Interproximal Reduction (IPR) for tooth alignment.
Prerequisites
Before beginning the procedure, ensure the following tools and supplies are available:
Scaler
Mirror and Explorer
Diamond IPR Strip
Mosquito IPR Bur
High-speed handpiece
IPR gauge
Printed IPR Summary sheet
Prepare for the IPR Procedure
To ensure accuracy, the clinician should have the IPR Summary sheet printed. This sheet specifies the exact locations and the required amount of reduction for the treatment. Position the patient in a reclined position and visualize the tooth contacts before beginning.
Perform IPR With High-Speed Handpiece
For reductions greater than 0.5mm, use a mosquito IPR bur with a high-speed handpiece.
Hold the handpiece and bur parallel to the contact point of the tooth.
Once the reduction is complete, use a mirror to visualize the contacts and confirm the contact is broken through the entire surface.
Check for the presence of ledges using an explorer or scaler. Any existing ledges will prevent proper space closure.
Perform IPR With Diamond Strips
Use diamond strips for anterior tooth reductions or to finish posterior reductions.
Slide the diamond strip between the tooth contact point.
Move the strip back and forth until the contact is broken.
Turn the strip in the opposite direction to repeat the process on the adjacent tooth.
Move the strip gingivally to ensure the contact is broken completely.
Pro Tip: Since each diamond strip is 0.1mm, fold the strip back on itself to create a 0.2mm measurement tool.
Verify Reduction With IPR Gauge
After completing the physical reduction, use an IPR gauge to verify the space created.
Insert the gauge to find the exact thickness of the reduction.
If the reduction is insufficient, repeat the stripping or bur process until the measurement matches the IPR Summary sheet.
Clean the contacts with a cotton roll once measurements are confirmed.