Comparison of Interproximal Reduction Techniques and Proximal Strips: An Atomic Force Microscopic and Confocal Microscopic Study

• Published in: Journal of Indian Orthodontic Society 2020-01, Vol.54 (1), p.44-48
• Main Authors: S, Pooja Harish, C, Karunakara B, Reddy, Sumitra
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0301-5742; 0974-9098
• DOI: 10.1177/0301574219885712

Abstract Objective: A vivo study was conducted to evaluate the surface roughness produced by two different methods: hand-held mechanical and air-rotor stripping and also by HORICO and Ortho-Organizer strips (Bengaluru, India), before and after polishing with 3M Sof-Lex Finishing Strips under Atomic Force Microscope. Methodology: Study included 44 proximal surfaces of extracted premolars divided into a control group and 3 experimental groups with 12 surfaces in each. Hand-held mechanical stripping was done by 40 passages of 6 cm long abrasive strips and air-rotor stripping using high-speed air-rotor turbine hand piece. Polishing was done using 3M Sof-Lex finishing strips. Reduced teeth samples were viewed under Atomic Force Microscope and the proximal strips under Confocal microscope for surface roughness. Results: Air-rotor stripping produced statistically significant more surface roughness compared to the mechanical reduction technique (P = .01). There was no significant difference between the roughnesses produced by 2 different proximal strips. Tooth surface after IPR with polishing had less roughness compared to unpolished surface. There was no mean difference between the wear of proximal strips. Conclusion: The mechanical reduction technique of interproximal surface produces less surface roughness compared to air-rotor stripping. Polishing with 3M Sof-Lex strips after reduction irrespective of the technique and material used gives smoother surface than even normal enamel.