Dental Bonding for Your Teeth

Tooth bonding or dental bonding uses a special tooth colored resin which is applied to the tooth then hardened using a special light. This bonds the resin to the tooth either to restore it or to improve the appearance of the tooth.  Consult with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS about the best cosmetic approach for your particular problem.

Dental bonding is an option that can be considered to repair decayed, chipped or cracked teeth, to improve the appearance of discolored teeth, to close spaces between teeth, to make teeth look longer and/or to change the shape of teeth. Little advance preparation is needed for dental bonding. Anesthesia is often not necessary unless the bonding is being used to fill a decayed tooth. At the dental practice of Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS we utilize white fillings that will closely match the color of your tooth.

If you have questions about dental bonding, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

Do Pacifiers Affect Baby Teeth?

It’s one of the hardest habits to break and can require a great deal of persuasion – parents often struggle with weaning their child off a pacifier. Yes, pacifiers provide a sense of security and a method of self-relaxation for infants, but the downside of pacifiers is the effect they can have on the growth and development of the teeth and mouth. At the dental practice of Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS we welcome all kinds of patients, including pediatric patients who have yet to wean off of the pacifier.

Prolonged pacifier use can cause changes in the shape of the roof of the mouth, prevent proper growth of the mouth and create problems with tooth alignment. Long-term pacifier use can lead to a variety of complications including tilting in of the bottom teeth and slanting in of the top and front teeth. Narrowing of the roof of the mouth and misalignment of the jaws can also occur. The Academy of General Dentistry recommends that children stop using pacifiers by the age of two. Up until that age, any alignment problem with the teeth or developing bone is usually corrected within six months after pacifier use has stopped.

If you have questions about pacifiers and teeth development, give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

Steps to Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Hundreds of different types of bacteria live on our teeth, gums, tongue and other crevices in the mouth. Some are helpful, but some can be harmful such as those that play a role in the tooth decay process. At the dental practice of Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, we want our patients to know that good oral and dental hygiene can help you avoid cavities and tooth decay.

When a tooth is exposed to acid frequently – for example, if you frequently eat foods or drinks containing sugar and starches – the repeated cycles of acid attacks cause the enamel to continue to lose minerals. This will cause a white spot to appear if the minerals have been lost. When this happens, this is a sign of early decay.

You can help prevent tooth decay by following these tips:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.


• Clean between your teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner.


• Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking.


• Visit us for professional cleanings and oral examination.

If you need assistance maintaining your oral hygiene routine, give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

Dental Implant Is the Best Choice for Replacement of a Tooth

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. In fact, they are one of the most reliable long-term methods of tooth replacement. If  you have missing teeth and need replacement, Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS is here to help.

Osseointegration describes the formation of a direct functional and structural connection between a person’s bone and an artificial implant. There are two primary reasons for “later” implant failure after the osseointegration process has been successful. These include over-stressing implants with too much biting force or inflammatory disease of the gum tissues and/or bone around the implant. Prevention plays a tremendous role in avoiding implant failure. Once the implants are placed, it’s crucial to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Make sure you schedule regular dental cleanings to help keep the tissues around your implants healthy.

If you have questions about dental implants, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

Two Types of Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. There are two main types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea, the more common form that occurs when throat muscles relax, and central sleep apnea, which occurs when your brain doesn’t send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.  After scheduling a consultation with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS she will decide which treatment method will be best for you.

When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the muscles relax, your airway narrows or closes as you breathe in, and you can’t get an adequate breath in. Your brain senses this inability to breathe and briefly rouses you from sleep so you can reopen your airway. You may make a snorting, choking or gasping sound. When central sleep apnea occurs, you may awaken with shortness of breath or have a difficult time getting to sleep or staying asleep. Like with obstructive sleep apnea, snoring and daytime sleepiness can occur.

If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

Diabetic Oral Care

People with poorly controlled diabetes are more prone to dental problems. They are more likely to develop infections of their gums and the bones that hold the teeth in place. Dental infection can also increase your blood sugar level.. If you have diabetes, please call our office to schedule a professional exam with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS to prevent further dental complications and to keep your blood sugar under control. 

If you have diabetes, symptoms of dental problems include bleeding and sore gums, frequent infections, and bad breath. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, managing your blood sugar level is critical. The higher your blood sugar level, the higher your risk of tooth decay, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Additionally, high blood sugar may cause dry mouth and make gum disease worse. The decrease in saliva can cause an increase in tooth-decaying bacteria and plaque buildup. You can prevent these problems by maintaining good blood sugar control, brushing and flossing and least twice a day, and schedule a dental checkup every six months.

If you are diabetic and have questions about oral care, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

Teeth Replacement with Dentures

If you have missing teeth, Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, has a variety of treatment options to replace them to help you improve your appearance and smile. One of these options is dentures. Dentures are custom-made replacements for missing teeth that can be taken out and put back in your mouth. While they may take some getting used to, and will never feel exactly the same as natural teeth, they are a non-invasive form of treatment that provides great benefits.

Today’s dentures are natural looking and more comfortable than ever. There are two main types: full and partial. With full dentures, a gum-colored acrylic base fits over your gums. The base of the upper denture covers the roof of your mouth, while that of the lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to accommodate your tongue. A partial denture can be made with or without metal framework.  Partial dentures are a removable alternative to dental bridges. These dentures can also be supported with implants for better retension.  After you schedule a consultation with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, she will determine which type is best for you.

If you think you may benefit from dentures, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

Sleep Apnea Solutions and Tips

Obstructive sleep apnea can be dangerous but it is treatable. Here in our Holmdel, NJ dental practice, Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS offers her patients with mild sleep apnea a snore guard.

A snore guard can help patients with mild sleep apnea or just snoring since these conditions often go hand-in-hand. The snore guard is like a mouth guard and works to position to jaw differently. Sleep apnea occurs when the soft tissues in the back of the throat collapse and cause a blocked airway. The snore guard repositions the jaw so that the soft tissue is no longer collapsed and there is an open airway.

In addition to the snore guard, there are some lifestyle changes that can help decrease the severity of sleep apnea. Keeping a healthy weight will reduce the excess weight put on the neck while sleeping. In addition, there are some sleeping habits to practice. First, sleep on your side rather than your back. This helps keep the airway more open. Secondly, avoid drinking alcohol or taking sedatives before bed. This depresses the body’s system and can become dangerous if the body does not react appropriately to apnea.

Sleep apnea can lead to life-threatening health complications. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, call our Holmdel, NJ office at (732) 264-8180 or visit our website, www.dentistnj.com. 

What is a Dental Crown/cap?

Dental crowns/Cap are great for keeping your natural teeth. If a tooth is fractured or decayed, a tooth is able to be repaired with a crown; there is no reason to pull it. Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS gives crowns to save her patients teeth here in our Holmdel, NJ office.

Dental crowns are like caps that go on teeth that are weakened due to decay or damage. They can be made of gold, porcelain, or porcelain fused to metal. They are able to be made completely customized so that the crown looks natural in the patient’s mouth.

In order to place a dental crown, first, the tooth has to be prepared. Dr. Shah will reshape the tooth so a crown can fit on top. Impressions are then taken of the tooth so a dental laboratory can create the custom crown. A temporary crown will be placed until the permanent crown is ready. When the permanent crown is ready, Dr. Shah will bond it into place. Your new strong and stable crown is ready.

Dental crowns restore teeth and smiles. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS in our Holmdel, NJ office, call us at (732) 264-8180. Appointments may also be requested through our website, www.dentistnj.com. 

Straight Teeth are Healthy Teeth

Benefits of having properly aligned teeth extend far beyond a confident smile. According to the American Dental Association, straightening your teeth can significantly affect your overall dental health. Straightening your smile could hardly be perfect if it’s not a healthy one and here at the dental practice of Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, we offer a variety of orthodontic options to help get you started.

Swollen red gums can often be the result of having teeth that are crowded or too widely spaced. Unfortunately, these are also signs of periodontal disease. When teeth are properly aligned, it helps the gums fit more securely around the teeth, allowing for the strongest and healthiest defense against periodontal problems. When teeth are crooked, extra pressure is placed on just a few teeth when the forces of chewing should be equally distributed between all of the teeth. In addition, smiles can be misaligned to the degree where individual teeth may be completely out of place behind or in front of other teeth, which can cause daily cleaning problems. Plaque left behind after brushing and flossing will turn into tartar within 24 hours and this tartar cannot be removed with a toothbrush.

If you wish to discuss your orthodontic treatment options, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

Thank You for Your Continuous Reviews!

Here at the dental practice of Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, we love to hear from our patients because it teaches us how to improve as a team. Though the patient who left this review chose to remain anonymous, we would still like to thank them for not only being an excellent patient but for leaving a review. Additionally, we encourage the rest of our patients to write testimonials and thank each and every one of you for your feedback!   

“Dr. Shah and I went through the entire orthodontic process, including a palette expander and braces, for about three years. The results with the braces were exceptional, but there was one problem with my teeth since the day I was born-- two missing front incisors. I was struggling with this issue after braces, for I had gotten a removable retainer with the teeth attached to it, but that never truly did it for me. One day after the last of my problems with that retainer was fixed, Dr. Shah decided to put in bonded teeth. The results were phenomenal! She did it all by hand, and I was so surprised to see the results look so similar to real teeth. I have never (knock on wood) had any problems since, and my teeth look so amazing. I am not afraid to smile anymore! Thank you for your hard work and dedication, Dr. Shah, for it truly paid off.”

If you would like to leave a testimonial or are interested in learning more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with  Dipika Shah DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

Preventive Care and Oral Hygiene

If you don’t take care of your teeth and properly maintain your oral health, you may find yourself spending thousands of dollars in restorative dental care down the line. Although we love to see you here at the dental practice of         Dipika Shah, DDS, we want to save you money and help you keep your teeth for life. When the dental team and the patient work together, this can help to prevent the need for treatment.

Preventive dentistry emphasizes the importance of ongoing hygiene procedures and daily practices to prevent tooth decay and other dental diseases and conditions. Effective preventive dentistry combines at-home oral care by patients with chairside treatments and counseling by dental professionals. The American Dental Association recommends a minimum of two dental checkups each year for professional cleaning and management of any developing conditions. Obeying this recommendation can help our dentists stop a dental disease in the earliest stages, protecting your smile and your wallet.

Considering that oral health is linked to overall health, preventive dentistry is important for the sake of your overall wellbeing. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

Complications of an Underbite

The main cause of an underbite is a misalignment of the lower jaw, which is usually present at birth. An underbite, clinically called prognathism, is the malocclusion or “bad bite” that happens when the lower teeth overlap the upper teeth. Just because your mouth may have this problem doesn’t mean that it’s untreatable. If you have been diagnosed with an underbite,  Dipika Shah DDS, can correct the problem.

Although far less common than overbites, underbites still affect 5-10 percent of the population. An extreme underbite can cause facial abnormality, resulting in an extended chin. Additionally, underbites including difficulty with chewing, swallowing and speaking. Underbites may also wear down tooth enamel and increase your chances of developing tooth decay or other dental problems such as TMJ disorder.

If you are concerned about an underbite and would like to discuss orthodontic options, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with  Dipika Shah DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

Athletes and Mouth Guards

Mouth guard use has been shown to reduce the risk of sport-related dental injuries. Imagine playing a sport that you love, when suddenly a tooth gets knocked out. Smiling, talking and eating would be difficult and it would probably take you some time to recover. When it comes to protecting your mouth, a mouth guard is an essential piece of athletic gear that should be part of your standard from an early age. Fortunately,  Dipika Shah, DDS can provide her athletic patients of all ages with custom-fitted mouth guards for proper protection.

Custom mouth guards are made from exact and precise models of an individual’s own teeth. They are also made of resilient and tear-resistant materials ensuring a proper fit. A properly fitted mouth guard absolutely must be protective, comfortable, resilient, tear resistant, odorless, tasteless, and allow room for you to breathe. Because Dr. Shah’s custom-fitted mouth guards are made for your mouth and your mouth only, they are more reliable than over-the-counter mouth guards.

If you know an athlete who may benefit from a mouth guard, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

Facts on Fluoride

Fluoride is a natural mineral found throughout the earth’s crust and widely distributed in nature and is often added to water to help reduce tooth decay. Research has shown that fluoride not only reduces cavities in children and adults, but it also helps repair the early stages of tooth decay, even before the decay is visible. Here at the dental practice of Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS we can discuss professional fluoride treatments with you to see if you are a prime candidate.

When fluoride reaches your teeth, it is absorbed into the enamel. Fluoride helps to repair the enamel by replenishing the lost calcium and phosphorus to keep your teeth hard through a process called remineralization. When fluoride is present during this process, the minerals deposited into the tooth enamel help strengthen your teeth and prevent dissolution during the next demineralization phase. The results are stronger tooth enamel and a cavity-free grin.

If you think you may benefit from a fluoride treatment, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

Thank You for Your Testimonials!

Here at the dental practice of Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, we love to hear from our patients because it teaches us how to improve as a team. Our staff would not only like to thank Nick R. for being an excellent patient, but we’d like to thank him for reviewing us. Additionally, we encourage the rest of our patients to write testimonials and thank each and every one of you for your feedback!   

“Dr. Shah is hands down the best dentist in the area and one of the best medical   professionals I've ever been treated by. Not only does she keep up with the latest in her field (and helps her patients understand all that), as well as keeping her office high-tech, but she's incredibly kind, understanding, gentle, and accommodating. I don't think she's ever recommended a single procedure without laying out all the options, all the pros, and cons, and definitely, makes everyone feel comfortable and at ease, which isn't easy when you hate dental checkups.”

If you would like to leave a testimonial or are interested in learning more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

What is an Overbite?

If you have been diagnosed with an overbite, this simply means that your top teeth extend beyond your bottom teeth. It is a common dental problem that Dr. Dipika Shah DDS, can correct with dental braces. Overbite teeth are considered a type of “bad bite.” It can either be noticeable or unnoticeable, but it some extreme cases it can make your jaw look significantly larger or your bottom jaw look much smaller.

Most often, overbites are inherited as traits just as the color of your eyes or the freckles on your cheeks. Other causes of misaligned bites may result from an early loss of baby or adult teeth, gum disease, or common oral health problems in children, such as thumb sucking. Once Dr. Dipika Shah DDS, confirms your overbite with X-rays, she may take regular photographs of your face to further examine the relationship between the teeth, jaws, and head. From there, an individualized treatment plan will be developed to correct the bite.

If you are concerned about an overbite and would like to discuss orthodontic options, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

Basics of Bruxism

Do you ever wake up from a night’s sleep with sore teeth and jaws? You could be grinding your teeth. The medical term for occasional teeth grinding is called bruxism and although this condition does not usually cause harm, when teeth grinding occurs on a regular basis, teeth can be damaged and other oral health complications can arise. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, facial pain, or notice your jaw muscles being tired or tight, you may be a “bruxer.” If that is the case, Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS will develop an individualized treatment plan to help alleviate these symptoms.

Stress, anxiety, smoking, heavy alcohol, caffeine, depression and sleep disorders are all possible causes of teeth grinding. Treatment for teeth grinding depends on the cause. In some cases, chronic teeth grinding can result in fracturing, loosening or loss of teeth. Patients may benefit from a mouth guard to stabilize the jaw and prevent tooth damage that is caused by grinding.

If you suffer from symptoms of bruxism, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

Help with TMD Pain

Pain and stiffness from TMD can cause major frustration. It can be difficult to understand, especially when first diagnosed. Dipika Shah, DDS of Holmdel, NJ can treat TMD to get you back to feeling like yourself.

Some of the things you can do at home when you are in pain. Eat soft diet, do not open your mouth to the point where it hurts, limit your jaw movement, Move your jaw side to side gently,do this until you begin to feel your jaw and facial muscles release and relax. Aplly warm moist heat in the front of your ears every 15-20 minutes on and off, walk staright with head aligned with your spine. 

If any of these suggestions begin to make your symptoms worse, do not continue with them. To set up your appointment with  Dipika Shah, DDS in our Holmdel, NJ dental practice, call our office at (732) 264-8180 or visit our website, www.dentistnj.com. 

Dental Implant Procedure Expectations

If you are receiving dental implants in the near future, Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS wants you to understand and relax. She wants you to be informed on what to expect. Pain is a common concern among individuals who are considering dental implants and our staff want you to know that while some discomfort is expected, it should not be your primary concern.

As with any major dental procedure, or surgery in general, some discomfort is to be expected during the recovery process since it is a surgery that typically involves  inserting a titanium post in your jaw bone that acts like a root of your tooth to support the crown. The procedure itself is not painful since the surgical area will be numb.  If you’re anxious about the discomfort during the procedure, we have electrical handpiece that does not make noise or vibrate to avoid noise, we have nice massagng chairs and please ask about our sedation options.

If you have further questions regarding your oral hygiene routine, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180. 

When is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?

While it is always ideal to keep all your natural teeth, there are sometimes situations where it is better to extract a tooth. Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS performs experienced extractions here in her Holmdel, NJ dental practice. Keep reading to learn the reasons why an extraction may be necessary.

Detrimental Decay

Small amounts of decay are able to be fixed by restorations like fillings, inlays, onlays, and crowns. When there is too much decay to save a tooth, it has likely caused an infection and the root has likely started to deteriorate. This is when an extraction is necessary. Not only can the tooth not be saved, but an infection can cause other oral and overall health risks.

 

Sparse Space

Another situation where extraction can be necessary is when there simply is not enough space for a tooth. This can cause a multitude of problems including damage to other teeth and gums, pain, infection, and poor oral hygiene. This is a common problem when wisdom teeth grow in. They often become impacted and need to be surgically removed.

 

While keeping your natural teeth is always the first option to explore, occasionally an extraction is unavoidable. To learn more about extractions, be sure to visit our website, www.dentistnj.com. To set up an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, call our Holmdel, NJ office at (732) 264-8180 or visit our website.

Dental Sealants to Seal Out Cavities

Kids go through cavity-prone years, which means they are at a time in their life where they may develop more cavities than any other time in their life. To protect their molars from cavities, Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS utilizes dental sealants. Here in our Holmdel, NJ office, we can provide sealants for kids and adults who have never had a cavity or filling in their molars.

Sealants literally seal out bacteria and other debris from the grooves and pits in molars. Since these areas can be hard to reach, protecting them during the years where a cavity is more likely is a smart idea.

To begin, the molars are cleaned and dried. An acidic solution is then placed on the teeth to roughen up the surface. This aids a strong bond between the sealant and the tooth. The acidic solution is rinsed off, the teeth are dried, and Dr. Shah paints the sealant onto the surfaces. A light is then used to harden the sealant. 

Sealants are great for kids between the ages of six to fourteen; the cavity-prone years and they can last for up to ten years, depending on chewing patterns. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS for sealants, call our Holmdel, NJ office at (732) 264-8180 or visit our website, www.dentistnj.com. 

Bad Habits to Avoid While Wearing Braces

Wearing braces comes with a few rules. While most people know about the foods they need to avoid, there are lesser-known habits to avoid to keep braces in good shape. Bad habits can lead to delays in treatment. Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS of Holmdel, NJ wants her patients to be educated on proper dental care while wearing braces. Keep reading to learn more!

 

Nail Biting

Most patients know they have to stay away from hard and crunchy foods like popcorn or raw carrots; however, another common habit can also damage braces. Nail biting can create enough pressure to pop off a bracket. In addition, even if a bracket does not pop off, the pressure can slow down treatment, making it so you have to wear the braces longer than planned.

 

Acidic Foods

Acidic foods like citrus fruits and pop are also bad for teeth while wearing braces. In excess, they are bad for teeth anyway, but while wearing braces, they can hide around the brackets and cause decay. Limit your pop intake and make sure you rinse after eating anything acidic.

 

Brushing Too Hard

Plaque is sticky but soft. It does not take abrasive brushing to remove it from your teeth. Brush too hard can harm the enamel on your teeth and while wearing braces, it can actually do damage to the brackets and wires. Be gentle and use a toothbrush with soft bristles.

 

Wearing braces may come with a few extra rules, but the end result is a beautiful and healthy smile! To learn more about the orthodontic options Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS offers here in our Holmdel, NJ dental practice, call us at (732) 264-8180 or visit our website, www.dentistnj.com. 

Foods to Eat with Traditional Braces

When Dr. Dipika Shah recommends braces, you most likely will have to modify some parts of your diet to protect them. As much as we love to see you at our dental practice, we don’t want you to delay your orthodontic treatment by eating the wrong foods that may loosen, break, or bend wires and bands. Although sturdy, stable and advanced, braces are orthodontic appliances that you need to treat with care. Below, we will explain what you should and should not eat while wearing braces.

You should never eat sticky foods, such as taffy, caramel, and chewing gum when you have braces. You should also avoid popcorn because the hulls can get stuck between your brackets and cause gum inflammation and infection. Avoid hard foods such as nuts and hard cookies. Foods such as apples and carrots should be chopped into small pieces before eating to reduce stress on your braces. Recommended foods while wearing braces generally include anything soft such as bananas, yogurt, light crackers, cheese, mashed potatoes, melons, grapes, and peanut butter and jelly, as well as noodle dishes like ravioli, spaghetti and macaroni and cheese.

If you have additional questions about orthodontic oral care, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, here in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180.

Botox and Dermal Fillers for Beautiful, Smooth Skin

Do you know what compliments a beautiful smile? Beautiful, youthful skin. Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS can provide you with smooth, wrinkle, free skin and full lips right here in our Holmdel, NJ office. Why trust your dentist to administer Botox and dermal fillers? Because dentists are trained in needle injections and are experts on facial structure.

Botox is a common procedure to reduce wrinkle and smooth skin around the eyes and the forehead. Botox works great for frown lines, crow’s feet, and “eleven” lines. Dr. Shah will inject the Botox around the problematic areas to reduce the muscles contractions that cause wrinkles and lines. Results are usually seen within twenty-four to forty-eight hours and they can last for up to four months.

Looking for full lips? Dr. Shah can also administer a dermal filler to reduce lines in the lips and create a fuller look. In addition, lines around the mouth like parentheses lines, corner lines, and marionette lines are able to be smoothed out. Effects from dermal fillers are noticed quickly and they can last for up to one year.

If you are looking for younger-looking, smoother skin, trust Dr. Dipika Shah with Botox or dermal filler. To schedule a consultation in our Holmdel, NJ office, give us a call at (732) 264-8180 or visit our website, www.dentistnj.com. 

Dental Care for Adults Over 60

As we grow older, certain health concerns earn our full attention, especially the importance of oral health for seniors. According to studies, around 75 percent of adults 60 and older only have a portion of their original teeth. Issues as severe gum disease, which is common in about 23 percent of seniors between the ages of 65-74, can contribute to the loss of your natural teeth. This is why Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS sets aside time to perform dental cleanings herself, to provide her patients, regardless of age, with the utmost care and help you keep your permanent teeth for a lifetime.

Advancing age puts many seniors at risk for a number of oral health problems, such as darkened teeth, dry mouth, diminished sense of taste, and much more. Even at 55+ years, adults can still develop tooth or root decay if gum recession has occurred. It is important for older adults to effectively clean the gums, the teeth, and exposed root surfaces to remove dental plaque and food debris. Age itself doesn’t play a dominant factor in determining your oral health status, but conditions such as arthritis may make brushing and flossing teeth difficult or impossible to perform.

We offer special care and discounts for our seniors, please give us a call to hear more about this. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180.

Foods to Avoid with TMJ Pain

When dealing with the pain and irritation of TMJ dysfunction, it is nice to know ways to avoid a flare-up. Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS of Holmdel, NJ treats patients with TMJ pain and wants them to know about certain types of foods that can lead to pain. Keep reading to learn about the foods to avoid and how you can make eating easier on your jaw.

It should not be too big of a surprise that hard and crunchy foods are more difficult for the jaw to chew through than softer foods. Because of the force the jaw needs to exert to bite through them, hard and crunchy foods can irritate the TMJs and lead to pain. Try to stay away from crunchy foods like popcorn and chips. Examples of harder foods are raw veggies. Vegetables are still important for your nutrition, though, so you should cook them so they are soft and easier to eat.

Another type of food which may not be as obvious of an irritant is chewy food. Caramels, chewing gum, and even tougher cuts of meat take much more chewing than most foods. The constant chewing motion can easily cause a TMJ flare-up. Stick to tender cuts of meat. If you want seafood, stick to fish rather than shellfish. You will also want to stay away from chewy candies. If you use gum to freshen your breath, try mints instead.

If you are experiencing frequent pain in your jaw or clicking when you open your mouth, schedule an appointment to see Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS. Appointments may be made by calling our Holmdel, NJ office at (732) 264-8180 or by visiting our website, www.dentistnj.com. 

Consequences of Missing Teeth

There are many reasons an individual might be missing teeth. The most common are tooth decay; however, in some cases, tooth loss is caused by injuries to either the tooth itself or to the surrounding tissues, including the gums and jaws. Like other common dental problems, missing teeth can cause serious complications over time if left untreated. Fortunately, Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS has a wide variety of restorative and cosmetic treatment options for patients to choose from.

There are several negative consequences of missing some or all of your teeth. Not only will your smile be affected by the gaps from the missing teeth, but the aesthetics of your face will change. If you’re missing too many teeth, the skin around your mouth won’t be supported properly and will start to sag, making you appear older than you are. Additionally, missing teeth will make eating and even speaking more difficult. The way you look affects the way you feel, and the psychological consequences of tooth loss can be intense. If you desire to repair your toothless grin, allow us to create you a more beautiful smile.

If you have missing teeth, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180.

Dental Emergencies

Accidents happen, and knowing what to do when one occurs can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth. Sometimes, dental emergencies such as severe infections or post-operative emergencies happen in the middle of the night or on the weekend when the dental practice is closed. Fortunately, Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS provides emergency care 24 hours a day/7 days a week, as she strongly believes that no one should suffer with pain if she can help it. In the midst of a dental emergency, utilize these tips to ensure a smooth recovery.  

• For a knocked-out permanent or adult tooth, keep it moist at all times. If you can, try placing the tooth back in the socket without touching the root. If that’s not possible, place it between your cheek and gums, or use a tooth preservation product that has the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance.


• For a cracked tooth, immediately rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area.


• If you bite your tongue or lip, clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress.


• For toothaches, rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between teeth.

If you experience a dental emergency, please call us immediately. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS in our Holmdel, NJ office, call 732-264-8180.

Night Guards to Alleviate Bruxism Destruction

Teeth grinding, called bruxism, is a behavior that can cause pain to the jaw and damage to teeth. Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS of Holmdel, NJ is helping patients protect their teeth from bruxism by providing night guards.

Clenching and grinding wears away and loosens teeth and restorations. Bruxism can be especially bad at night when you are unaware you are doing it. The pressure from the clenching can also cause jaw pain, facial pain, and headaches. If not treated, this can eventually lead to TMJ dysfunction.

Dr. Shah creates a night guard to protect your teeth and alleviate the pain caused by grinding. The night guards are custom-fit so that each patient receives individualized treatment. Every mouth is different, so they cannot all be treated the same. The night guard is like a mouth guard and can be worn during the night or day. Night guards can last for up to ten years with good care.

If you suspect you grind your teeth at night, schedule an evaluation with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS. To schedule in our Holmdel, NJ office, call us at (732) 264-8180 or visit our website, www.dentistnj.com. 

Invisalign for Discreet and Convenient Straightening

Straightening your teeth results in a beautiful smile, but many are not so happy with how they look wearing braces. Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS in Holmdel, NJ offers a solution for her patients who want straight teeth without wearing braces. She offers Invisalign; a nearly invisible way to straighten teeth.

In addition to being almost invisible, Invisalign is also incredibly convenient. Unlike braces, you are able to take Invisalign out to eat and clean your teeth. This means you no longer have to avoid certain foods like hard, crunchy, or sticky ones. You can also brush and floss your teeth normally. No going around brackets or under wires.

Invisalign works by taking impressions of your teeth and creating a series of clear aligner trays. The trays created from your impressions will be switched out every two weeks; each tray being slightly different. Over the course of time, your teeth will shift into place. Most adult patients finish their Invisalign treatment in about a year. Most teen patients take about the same time as traditional braces; about two years.

If you desire a beautiful, straight smile, consider Invisalign for a discreet and convenient treatment. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS in Holmdel, NJ, call our office at (732) 264-8180 or visit our website, www.dentistnj.com. 

Gentle Root Canal Therapy

An achy, sensitive tooth with a dark spot on it may mean you have a tooth infection and will need a root canal. However, do not worry. Root canals these days are now no more uncomfortable that having a cavity filled. Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS performs root canals in our Holmdel, NJ dental practice.

When a tooth becomes infected, the dental pulp is infected. Usually through a crack or decay, the bacteria enter the center of your tooth and infect the pulp. There is usually pain and sensitivity involved because the pulp is the nerve center of your tooth. Pain, sensitivity, red gums, and a dark spot on the tooth are good signs that the tooth is infected.

To perform a root canal, a hole is drilled in the tooth to access the center. A file is then inserted into the tooth to clean out the infected pulp. A sealant called gutta-percha is placed in the tooth to replace the pulp. A filling is then placed on the access hole. The tooth is now able to function normally. Pain and sensitivity will subside and the tooth will no longer be at risk of being lost.

If the thought of a root canal is scaring you away from seeking help with an infected tooth, there is nothing to worry about. Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS performs gentle and effective root canals here in her Holmdel, NJ office. To schedule your examination, call our office at (732) 264-8180 or visit our website, www.dentistnj.com. 

Veneers for a Brand-New Smile

Sometimes we wish we could just create ourselves a brand-new smile. Well, Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS can do just that with veneers. In our Holmdel, NJ dental practice, veneers are providing perfect smiles for our patients who are unhappy with the aesthetics of their smile.

Veneers are a wonderful way to almost instantly improve a smile. Veneers are great for fixing the look of gaps, cracks, chips, discoloration, crooked teeth, and more. They are a set of ceramic shells that are bonded to a patient’s existing teeth. They are created completely custom by a dental laboratory so that they look natural and fit perfectly in each patient’s mouth.

To begin the process of applying dental veneers, Dr. Shah will first need to prepare your teeth. A thin layer of enamel is removed from your teeth to accommodate the veneers. Impressions of your teeth are then sent to the lab so the set of custom veneers can be created. During this time, temporary veneers are worn to protect your teeth. A couple of weeks later, the custom veneers are bonded into place. With good care, they can stay in great shape for up to ten years.

Veneers are durable, strong, and stain-resistant. Therefore, you can enjoy all your favorite foods. You will also be able to enjoy a long-lasting white smile. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS in Holmdel, NJ, call our office at (732) 264-8180 or visit our website, www.dentistnj.com. 

Dental Bridges: What Are They?

Replacing missing teeth is important because teeth not only help us chew, but they help us speak and are a large part of our facial structure. One option for tooth replacement Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS offers here in her Holmdel, NJ dental practice is the dental bridge.

A dental bridge is quite literal to its name. It is a restoration that bridges the gap between teeth. Bridges work by attaching a replacement tooth, called a pontic, to two crowns on either side. The crowns are placed on the teeth that are adjacent to the open space. The pontic sits right in the middle where the missing tooth once was. Bridge may also be made for teeth that are missing with only one tooth adjacent to it, like in cases where the last molar is missing.

Dental bridges are able to be made to look just like your natural teeth, so no one will be able to tell the difference when you smile. We can take an impression of the open space and the adjacent teeth so that a dental laboratory can create a custom bridge. The adjacent teeth are first prepared, so the impression is taken after the teeth are reshaped for the crowns. While the custom bridge is being prepared, you will wear a temporary bridge. After the custom bridge is ready, it is permanently bonded into place. A bridge can last for over ten years with good care.

If you are missing a tooth, it is important to replace it. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS in our Holmdel, NJ dental practice, call our office at (732) 264-8180 or visit our website, www.dentistnj.com. 

The Psychological Research Behind Keeping New Habits

How are those New Year resolutions going? It’s February and studies show that by this time, many of us start to fall back into old habits. Starting oral health-related habits can be difficult, but good hygiene is vital to your oral and overall health. Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS of Holmdel, NJ wants to let her patients in on the secrets that help them start and keep healthy habits.

According to recent research, about fifty percent of the population make New Year resolutions. However, most people end up right where they started or further behind by the next New Year. This is mainly because people set unrealistic goals and expect unrealistic outcomes. Then, when they become discouraged, they slip back into their old ways.

Psychology researchers instead suggest making more specific goals with realistic expectations and smaller steps. For instance, if you want to make it a goal to have better oral health, create a more specific goal you can focus on like starting to floss every day. This is a small goal you can focus on daily that will, in turn, lead to cleaner teeth and healthier gums.

In addition, brain scientists Antonio Damasio and Joseph LeDoux and psychotherapist Stephen Hayes have discovered that habitual behavioral changes are made through creating new neural pathways and memories. These can be established with new thinking patterns. These new neural pathways will become your default thinking when you come face to face with a decision.

That being said, the next time you want to skip part of your oral hygiene routine, think of the short-term and long-term positive effects of doing it. Day by day, change your thought process!

Remember to brush twice per day and floss once per day. To schedule a cleaning and examination with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, call our Holmdel, NJ office at (732) 264-8180 or visit our website, www.dentistnj.com. 

Electric Toothbrush Basics

Maintaining good oral hygiene should be an important part of everyone’s daily routine. Without proper cleaning at least twice daily and without a thorough annual cleaning by Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, your teeth and mouth can suffer from a number of issues. To begin a proper oral hygiene routine, you will need an effective toothbrush. Because they provide the brushing action for you, many people find that using power toothbrushes are easier than using regular manual ones.

Generally rich in technology and features, some power toothbrushes can even enable you to improve your brushing habits. While regular toothbrushes work well, electric toothbrushes offer a number of additional benefits such as faster brushing, easier brushing, deep cleaning, stain removal, and fresher breath. Hi-tech features may include numerous brushing modes for sensitive teeth, whitening benefits, or gum-massaging action. Depending on the brand, additional features may include pressure sensors to signal when you’re brushing too hard and timers to help you keep track of how long you’re brushing on each quadrant of your mouth.

To learn about the services we provide at our practice visit, www.dentistnj.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS in Holmdel, NJ, give us a call at 732-264-8180.

Are You Brushing for Two Minutes?

Brushing your teeth is a standard part of your day by now. However, could it be so mundane in your daily activities, that you aren’t really aware of what you’re doing. It’s sort of like being on auto-pilot. Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS of Holmdel, NJ wants to remind our patients that proper brushing, cleaning between teeth and cleaning tongue with a tongue cleaner at least twice a day  after breakfast and after dinner) will keep dentist and doctors away. 

It has been proven that inflamation of gum can cause many other diseases like stroke, heart attack, diabetes, cancer to name a few. Visiting your dentist as recommended to take out bacterial plaque that you missed along with routine oral care will help you  keep your oral  and overall health.