Interproximal reduction in orthodontics: Reported practices and perceptions of orthodontists in the Republic of Ireland

Abstract

To ascertain reported practices and perceptions of orthodontists regarding interproximal reduction (IPR) in the Republic of Ireland (RoI). Questionnaires were administered to orthodontists in the RoI, seeking their demographics, reported IPR practices and related perceptions. Questionnaire responses were received from 105 (75%) of those invited to participate. Nearly all (98%) performed IPR, with 44% reporting increased recent use. Lower labial segment teeth were most frequently reduced in adults or adolescents to reshape teeth, resolve mild crowding or address tooth size discrepancies. This was in conjunction with aligner (59%) or fixed appliance (33%) treatments. Removal of 2-4mm of enamel per arch was most common (60%). The majority (82%) performed IPR over several visits with handheld strips, (87%) or strips in holders (58%), or with diamond burs in an air rotor (51%). Orthodontists perceived their patients to be unfamiliar with IPR, to find it uncomfortable (48%) rather than painful (9%) and preferable to extraction (71%). Conservative IPR of less than 4mm per arch was mostly undertaken for teeth in the lower labial segment in adults or adolescents in conjunction with aligner or fixed appliance treatments. Handheld strips were most commonly used. Orthodontists perceived their patients to be unfamiliar with IPR, to find it uncomfortable rather than painful and preferable to extraction.