IPR: safely removing interproximal enamel and adhesive residue

Aligner and splint therapies are becoming increasingly popular. To move teeth in a controlled manner, interproximal enamel reduction (IPR, interproximal reduction) is frequently used to create targeted space between the teeth.

What IPR achieves

In cases of mild crowding, IPR creates the necessary space without having to extract teeth. A controlled, measured approach is crucial: only as much enamel as necessary is removed, evenly and while protecting the adjacent teeth.

Instruments and technique

Fine diamond-coated strips and discs as well as slim diamond instruments are used for IPR. Key principles:

• reduce enamel step by step and under measurement control
• protect the adjacent tooth and papilla
• subsequently smooth and polish the surfaces for a plaque-resistant finish
• apply fluoride to remineralise the enamel

Adhesive residue after brackets and attachments

After removing brackets or aligner attachments, adhesive residue remains on the enamel in most cases. This must be removed completely, but gently. Fine tungsten carbide finishers and polishers remove the composite without damaging the underlying enamel. The goal is a smooth, natural enamel surface as a clean conclusion to the treatment.

Preservation is the priority

Since enamel does not grow back, preserving substance is the top priority. Fine grits, low pressure and sufficient cooling ensure a controlled result.

Register as a professional customer and find the right instruments in the shop.

From our range

For interproximal reduction and removing adhesive remnants we offer fine diamond instruments and separating discs in graded grits, so you work in a controlled way from coarse to fine. All instruments are Swiss Made to ISO 13485, in stock and ready to ship within 48 hours.

Register as a professional and find the right grit in the shop.