Maintain Your Perfect Smile
Are you worried about keeping your teeth straight after orthodontic treatment? At DeQuattro Orthodontics, our skilled orthodontists in Wakefield and Westerly, RI, offer a solution beyond retainers: tooth width adjustment. This innovative technique can help you maintain your beautifully aligned smile for years by carefully reshaping your teeth to create the necessary space for alignment.
To schedule a consultation, call our Wakefield office at (401) 783-9890 or our Westerly office at (401) 596-2264 today!
What is Tooth Width Adjustment?
Tooth width adjustment, also known as interproximal reduction (IPR), involves gently removing a small amount of enamel from the sides of your teeth. This procedure creates space for better alignment, helping to correct crowded or misaligned teeth without extractions. The result is a more harmonious and stable smile.
Benefits of Tooth Width Adjustment
Tooth width adjustment offers several notable benefits for patients seeking orthodontic treatment. This technique provides the following advantages:
- Improved Alignment: Precise reshaping ensures better positioning of your teeth.
- Space Creation: Ideal for crowded teeth, eliminating the need for extractions.
- Long-Lasting Stability: Reduces the chance of teeth shifting post-treatment.
- Enhanced Functionality: Promotes a proper bite for comfortable chewing and speaking.
- Minimally Invasive: Only a small amount of enamel is removed, preserving tooth structure.
- Versatility: This can be combined with braces or clear aligners for tailored treatment.
Tooth Width Adjustment Process
Initial Consultation
During your initial consultation, you’ll meet with Dr. DeQuattro for a comprehensive evaluation. We’ll discuss your goals and determine if IPR is right for you. He will conduct a thorough examination, including dental X-rays and impressions, to assess your dental structure and spacing needs.
Procedure
If tooth width adjustment is deemed suitable, Dr. DeQuattro will proceed by carefully removing a small amount of enamel from the outer surface of the teeth in specific areas. This process can be done manually or with a specialized dental handpiece designed for precision and minimal invasiveness.
The amount of enamel removed is carefully measured to align with your treatment goals and maintain the natural structure of your teeth. IPR can be performed alone or with other orthodontic treatments, such as braces or clear aligners. In some cases, front teeth are contoured during or after orthodontic treatment to enhance their appearance.
Aftercare
After the procedure, Dr. DeQuattro will provide detailed aftercare instructions, including managing any discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers and maintaining excellent oral hygiene. You will also receive guidance on scheduling follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
Ideal Candidates for Tooth Width Adjustment
Before you’re approved for IPR, your orthodontist will consider the followings:
- The size and shape of your teeth
- Your tooth positions and alignment
- Your facial features
You may not qualify for tooth width adjustment if you have decayed teeth, unhealthy gums, or infected dental pulp.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the tooth width adjustment procedure take?
The duration of the procedure depends on the extent of enamel removal required. In most cases, tooth width adjustment can be completed within a single appointment, lasting anywhere from a few minutes to around 30 minutes.
How should I care for my teeth after a tooth width adjustment procedure?
After the tooth width adjustment procedure, you must maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing, and using fluoride treatments. Regular dental check-ups are essential for long-lasting results.
Is the tooth width adjustment procedure safe for my teeth and gums?
Yes, IPR is safe. The procedure doesn’t increase the risk of tooth decay or gum disease and is usually painless as it involves the outer enamel layer, which lacks nerve endings.
How long will the results of tooth width adjustment last?
With proper care and regular orthodontic check-ups, the tooth width adjustment results can be long-lasting. Wearing retainers as instructed is crucial for maintaining alignment.
Receive a New Look at DeQuattro Orthodontics. Schedule Now!
Help your smile stay perfectly aligned with tooth width adjustments at DeQuattro Orthodontics. Call our Wakefield office at (401) 783-9890 or our Westerly office at (401) 596-2264, or fill out our online contact form to schedule your consultation. We proudly serve Wakefield, Westerly, Narragansett, South Kingstown, Charlestown, Weekapaug, and the surrounding areas.