Will Filing Teeth for Invisalign Affect Teeth Strength?

Question

I am finishing my Invisalign treatment and my dentist wants to file the bottom of my front upper tooth so it is aligned with the rest.  Is this OK to do?  Would this affect the strength of the tooth in any way?

Michael J. Thomas, DDS · Answer

We all do that to finish a case up and make it look better. When the teeth were crooked, they wore differently, so now that they are straight, they need to be evened up. They will also bite better this way and are not harmed by the polishing.

Bobby Virk, DMD, MSD · Answer

What you are referring to is Inter proximal reduction (IPR). This is done routinely for orthodontic readons to align your teeth for long term stability. A very small amount (less than .3 mm) of enamel is filed. It doesn't render your teeth weak or predispose your teeth to any caries etc. I usually give flouride treatment after that.

Susan Goode Estep, DMD · Answer

Sometimes, after Invisalign, I will do some contouring of the teeth to idealize aesthetics. This contouring should be very slight. Oftentimes, I will use a Sharpie pen to black out the tiny bit (edge) that I plan to remove. When you look in the mirror you can't see the line, but you can see what the finished result will look like.

Daniel W. Schiavone, DDS · Answer

Interproximal reduction (IPR) perfomed during Invisalign treatment consists of removing small amounts of enamel on the sides of your teeth.  It shouldn't compromise the strength of your teeth.

Lawrence Singer, DMD (in memoriam) · Answer

Filing down the teeth will not harm the teeth in anyway.  This is done to ensure long term stability for your teeth, as well as helping the bite.  Your teeth will not be weakened in any way.

Will Filing Teeth for Invisalign Affect Teeth Strength?

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