History - Murray L. Ballard advocated for stripping lower anterior teeth in 1944. - John J. Sheridan introduced the Air Rotor Stripping technique in the 1980s. - IPR can be used as an alternative to tooth extraction or expansion. - Zachrisson stated that IPR can improve the esthetics of anterior teeth. - Modern diets of soft and processed foods have led to increased dental crowding.

Application - IPR is an irreversible procedure. - Indications for IPR include mild to moderate crowding, black triangles, retention enhancement, and correction of the Curve of Spee. - IPR is contraindicated for patients with high caries risk, poor oral hygiene, periodontal diseases, multiple restorations, excessive crowding, hypersensitivity to cold, and large pulp chambers.

Amount - Up to 50% of proximal enamel can be stripped without causing problems. - Sheridan recommended 2.5mm of space from IPR of five anterior contacts and 6.4mm from IPR of eight posterior contacts. - It is recommended to remove no more than 0.5mm - 0.75mm from each proximal side of anterior teeth.

Techniques - IPR can be carried out using abrasive metal strips, diamond coated disks, or air-rotor stripping burs. - Metal strips are suitable for rotated teeth. - Diamond disks should be used carefully to avoid enamel undercuts or contact with soft tissue. - Squared-off tips should be used with air-rotor burs to prevent furrows. - Burs may produce a rough finish on enamel.

Side-Effects - Excessive heat during IPR can damage the dental pulp. - IPR has been associated with caries and periodontal disease, but the association is debated. - Topical fluoride application or wearing a fluoride varnish-infused retainer can help limit side-effects. - A study showed that fluoride application after IPR reduced the risk of caries. - Observational studies found no signs of gingival recession or thinning of the labial gingiva in most patients who underwent IPR.