&align Orthodontics

Explore our 'nighttime for a lifetime' retainers at &align in Queens, NY. We offer additional or replacement retainers and discuss options for fixed retention. Touch-up treatment may be recommended before placing fixed retainers.

Our traditional metal choice incorporates top-notch braces, applying gentle yet tooth- and root-friendly pressure, ensuring successful outcomes even for intricate treatment plans. Appointments are typically spaced 4-8 weeks apart, with color adjustments made during each visit for a consistently brilliant result.

Embrace the esthetic and effective Clear braces at &align in Queens, NY. Crafted from ceramic, they offer comfort and confidence throughout your treatment. Combining clear on top with metal on the bottom ensures long-term health. Visits every 4-8 weeks.

Our aligners stand out as the most aesthetically pleasing treatment choice. These removable plastic aligners empower patients to easily insert and remove them at their convenience. While fixed dental filling material pieces, known as "attachments," are affixed to the teeth, the plastic aligners can be taken out for brushing, promoting long-term dental health for teeth, gums, and roots. In certain cases involving more intricate treatment plans, a combination of braces and aligners may be integrated into hybrid treatment approaches. Appointments are usually spaced every 4-12 weeks.

During many orthodontic treatments, teeth often develop a yellowish tint due to limited access for cleaning. Inquire about our in-office teeth whitening choices and take-home whitening gels!

Certain patients may benefit from combining orthodontic treatment with orthognathic surgery for the best results. This approach demands meticulous planning and timing, effective communication between your orthodontist and oral surgeon, and a dedicated team committed to achieving excellent outcomes. We're here to assist you in navigating these more complex treatment modalities and exploring alternative options, if feasible.

Expanders represent a treatment method designed to broaden the upper jaw. In certain instances, the use of an expander can also facilitate the creation of space for crowded teeth. Expanders may yield positive impacts on growth and enhance the airway. For individuals who have stopped growing, alternative methods of expansion may be necessary. We are pleased to discuss the advantages and indications of using an expander if it is deemed beneficial for your treatment.

Habit breakers are crafted to deter finger-related habits such as nail biting and thumb-sucking, as well as habits involving forward tongue posture or interactions with objects like pencils or blankets. If left unaddressed, these habits can significantly impact not only dental health but also overall growth in children. It is crucial that patients are emotionally prepared to cease these habits permanently. Once ready, habit breakers and other treatment options can be implemented to discourage these behaviors. It's important to be cautious, as a recurrence of habits may lead to shifts in teeth alignment.

Gum size and shape undergo alterations during the course of treatment. Some areas may experience a decrease in height and thickness, while others may see an increase. Frequently, inadequate brushing can lead to overgrowth and inflammation of the gums during treatment. Consult with our team members to learn effective at-home hygiene techniques to minimize gum overgrowth. If changes occur, we may temporarily remove wires to allow swelling to subside. It's noteworthy that 6-8 weeks after braces removal, gum swelling tends to decrease significantly due to improved access for tooth brushing. In cases where gum reshaping is necessary, we provide in-office procedures known as gingivectomies to level and reduce the gums. If adjustments involve adding gum tissue or require a more complex gingivectomy, we will refer you to a specialist in gum care.

A board-certified specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Shahabuddin is committed to helping all her patients achieve a brilliant and healthy smile. She has a passion for the esthetic side of dentistry and understands that designing a smile is an art.