Permanent Retainer after Orthodontic Treatment

The day has come, where you complete orthodontic treatment and anticipate the removal of brackets and wires. If you’ve completed Invisalign treatment, you’ll need to have the “pucks” or “bumps” removed from the teeth. Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, doesn’t want all of your hard work to go to waste, which is why she is eager to discuss retainer options that best suit your needs. Though removable retainers are a common option, permanent retainers, also known as bonded retainers, are available as well.

A bonded retainer is a very thin piece of wire that is attached to the back of the teeth once orthodontic treatment is complete. It won’t be visible, but you may feel a slight pressure as this method works to keep teeth straight during all hours of the day. Bonded retainers may take some getting used to, but one of the biggest advantages is that you won’t have to remember to place your non-removable retainer in the mouth. If you decide to be fitted with a bonded retainer, be sure to discuss oral hygiene options with Dr. Dipika Shah, DDS, as flossing becomes slightly more difficult.

If you have questions or concerns about orthodontic treatment or aftercare options, 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 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.