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IPR
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A N D X I M P R OV E D X X X X
A New Approach to Interproximal Reduction
by Wm. Randol Womack, DDS
Interproximal reduction is an integral part of solving
specific orthodontic tooth size discrepancies. Since I developed the IPR protocol and DVD for Invisalign in 2002, I
recently refined and improved the technique for more accuracy and precision.
Dr. Jack Sheridan says, "Interproximal reduction is the
process of making incremental reductions to tooth enamel to
create sufficient space between teeth for successful movement/
realignment." Dr. Sheridan documented air-rotor stripping in
his 1985 publication. It has been established that the technique
for posterior tooth-size reduction (distal to cuspids) was best
accomplished with the air-rotor approach. However, the
Fig. 1
approach to IPR from cuspid to cuspid is more easily, accurately
and precisely accomplished with a different technique.
Dr. Sheridan clearly identified the correct form of an interproximal opening between teeth and he also clearly defined the
"fatal error" (Fig. 1) of creating the incorrect interproximal
opening. When the opening is correct, the opposing surfaces
that have been reduced must be parallel or converging toward
the incisal to create the proper form of the opening (Figs. 2 and
3). Form is equally important as the size of the opening!
I developed a refined technique for IPR that is more comfortable for the patient and more accurate and precise for the
doctor. It involves a simple four-step approach.
Fig. 3
Fig. 2
continued on page 36
orthotown.com \\ DECEMBER 2013
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Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Orthotown December 2013