Caring for your Teeth Archives - Eggert Family Dentistry Blog

Why Your Children Deserve Expert Dental Care at Eggert Family Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

As a parent, you want the very best for your children, and that includes making sure their dental health is in excellent hands from the very beginning. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert are passionate about helping children develop strong, healthy smiles that support their overall well-being. In fact, they welcome young patients as early as age one—an essential time to begin monitoring oral development. By starting early, you give your child the best chance at ideal dental health and growth.

Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff go beyond simply checking for cavities; they closely monitor your child’s oral development to ensure everything is progressing as it should. Issues like narrow jaws and other developmental concerns can often go unnoticed in a traditional pediatric dental setting. Unfortunately, these problems can lead to breathing issues, sleep disturbances, and long-term developmental challenges if left unaddressed. At Eggert Family Dentistry, your child’s growth and health are given the thorough attention they deserve.

What Are Some of the Tools We Use?

One of the most valuable assets Dr. Elizabeth brings to her young patients is her involvement as a founding member of the ASAP Pathway. This organization is dedicated to early intervention and comprehensive care to optimize children’s airway and craniofacial development. According to the ASAP Pathway, early signs such as mouth breathing, snoring, and restless sleep can be indicators of underlying developmental problems. Dr. Elizabeth uses this knowledge to evaluate and guide your child toward healthy development at each visit.

If your child shows signs of underdeveloped jaws or compromised airway function, Dr. Elizabeth may recommend a Myobrace treatment plan. Myobrace is a preventative orthodontic system that encourages natural growth and development through myofunctional therapy—often eliminating the need for more invasive orthodontics later on. By beginning this guidance early, Dr. Elizabeth can help redirect your child’s growth trajectory before orthodontics is even necessary.

How Else Can We Help Your Child?

Once your child is ready for orthodontic treatment, the Eggert’s remain actively involved. They work alongside your child’s orthodontist to closely monitor bite alignment and ensure everything is looking favorable before braces or Invisalign attachments are removed. This extra layer of oversight helps provide peace of mind and promotes long-term stability in your child’s smile and bite.

Many families wait until their children turn 18 to transition from a pediatric dentist, but by that time, it’s often too late to correct underlying developmental issues in a simple way. If your child is currently seeing a pediatric dentist, now is the perfect time to make the switch to Eggert Family Dentistry. Don’t wait until problems arise—Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff Eggert are here to proactively support your child’s oral health and whole-body wellness every step of the way. Call us today at 651.482.8412 and schedule your whole family today!

What Gingival Inflammation Means to Your Whole Body

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Inflammation is your body’s natural response to injury or infection, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to serious health complications—including those affecting your gums. Whole-body inflammation often manifests in the gingival tissues as redness, swelling, and bleeding. Unfortunately, this is a “silent disease” because often during the early stages of the disease, there is no pain. This is unfortunate because many people then overlook it until it has progressed to a more serious stage. Your oral health is deeply connected to your overall well-being, making it essential to recognize the early warning signs and take action.

When systemic inflammation affects your gums, you may notice tenderness, persistent bad breath, gum recession, or increased tooth sensitivity. These symptoms are often indicators of underlying conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders, which are all linked to chronic inflammation. Even if you don’t experience pain, your gums may still be at risk. Regular dental checkups can help detect subtle changes in your oral tissues before they escalate into severe periodontal disease.

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert, along with our skilled team of hygienists – Lea, Cassie, Emily, and Lisa, are trained to identify early signs of inflammation in your gingival tissues. We assess your gum health during routine exams, looking for telltale signs such as puffiness, discoloration, and excessive plaque buildup. By addressing these symptoms early, we can help you manage inflammation and prevent long-term damage to your gums and overall health.

One of the best ways to combat gum inflammation is by adopting a proactive oral hygiene routine. Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing daily, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce bacterial buildup and prevent your immune system from overreacting. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as leafy greens, fatty fish, and nuts, can support your body’s natural defenses against chronic inflammation.

Beyond oral hygiene, lifestyle choices play a crucial role in managing inflammation. Stress reduction techniques, such as mindfulness and regular exercise, can lower levels of inflammatory markers in your body. Staying hydrated and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol consumption can also help keep inflammation in check. If you have underlying health conditions that contribute to chronic inflammation, working with your medical providers as well as us at Eggert Family Dentistry will help manage them and will further protect your gums and overall health.

Your dental team at Eggert Family Dentistry is committed to helping you recognize and address gum inflammation before it leads to serious complications. Through regular professional cleanings, personalized care plans, and patient education, we empower you to take control of your oral and systemic health. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can reduce inflammation, protect your gums, and improve your overall quality of life. Call us today for your next appointment! 651-482-8412

The Surprising Ways Oral Health Influences Inflammatory Diseases

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

You know oral health is important, but what you may not realize is that oral health impacts overall wellness. Many studies link poor oral health to serious systemic issues, including diabetes and heart disease. The culprits? Harmful bacteria and inflammation. Let’s take a closer look!

The Oral-Systemic Connection

Poor dietary and lifestyle habits, preexisting health conditions, dry mouth, or infrequent dental care can cause harmful bacteria to build up in a person’s mouth. When these bacteria are allowed to persist, they easily infect gums, often leading to gum disease, also known as periodontitis. From that point, they can seep into the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body.

Anytime your body perceives a threat, it will begin an inflammatory process to protect that part of the body and promote healing. In the case of an injury, for example, the body rushes white blood cells to the site of an injury to protect it and promote healing. With chronic inflammation, however, white blood cells perceive a constant threat over time, often sending white blood cells into nearby organs and systems. This can harm surrounding tissues and damage organs.

When harmful bacteria lodge in the gums, an inflammatory process begins. When these bacteria move through your bloodstream into other parts of your body, inflammation follows.

Thus, what begins as oral negligence can result in inflammatory diseases throughout the body.

Key Inflammatory Diseases Linked to Oral Health

Diabetes: Diabetes is a common inflammatory disease that can be linked to oral health…and it’s a two-way street.

People with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk for gum disease. That’s because higher glucose levels in the body mean higher glucose levels in the mouth. Elevated sugar levels in the mouth make it a more habitable place for harmful bacteria to grow and thrive, often leading to periodontal disease.

In another scenario, poor oral care can lead to periodontal disease, causing elevated blood sugar, contributing to insulin resistance, and leading to the development of diabetes or making diabetes more difficult to control.

Heart Disease: Heart disease is another inflammatory disease that can result from untreated gum disease. In fact, periodontitis increases a person’s risk for cardiovascular disease by 20%.

It all begins when harmful bacteria enter the bloodstream through inflamed gums and cause plaque to build up on the artery walls. When this plaque builds up, the artery walls narrow, restricting blood flow. This scenario puts a person at a higher risk of a heart attack or stroke. Bacteria can also build up on the heart valves, resulting in endocarditis.

Alzheimer’s Disease: Gum disease results in the formation of the bacteria porphyromonas gingivalis. These bacteria produce a toxic enzyme known as gingipains. Gingipains contribute to the buildup of beta-amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. When gingipains migrate to the brain, they can damage nerve cells essential for memory, leading to memory loss and, over time, Alzheimer’s disease.

Preventative Care to Protect Your Health

While the thought of oral health issues going systemic might make you nervous, prevention starts with simple steps that help you keep your mouth healthy!

Brush, floss, and swish with mouthwash daily to remove food particles before they turn into plaque, harden into tartar, and trap bacteria under the gum line, leading to gum disease.
Limit the consumption of sugars and acidic foods. Avoid smoking, vaping, and other unhealthy lifestyle habits.
Visit Eggert Family Dentistry for routine professional cleanings. During these visits, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert will look closely for any inflammation or early signs of gum disease. They’re equipped with the knowledge and tools to help you maintain—or reclaim—a healthy mouth!

As we approach World Oral Health Day on Thursday, March 20, we want to empower you to take charge of your oral health and for a healthier mouth, a healthier body, and a happier life! Schedule your next recare visit with Eggert Family Dentistry by calling us at 651.482.8412.

What Good is Whitening Toothpaste Anyway?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

When it comes to whitening toothpastes, the choices can feel overwhelming. Each brand promises to deliver whiter teeth, often within weeks. But have you ever wondered how these products work and whether they live up to their claims? Understanding the types of whitening toothpastes and their effectiveness can help you choose the best option for your smile.

Most whitening toothpastes use mild abrasives to scrub away surface stains caused by coffee, tea, or smoking. Brands like Colgate Optic White and Crest 3D White go a step further by incorporating chemical agents like hydrogen peroxide. These chemicals not only polish the teeth but also slightly penetrate the enamel to break down stains. On the other hand, brands like Sensodyne True White focus on providing a gentler whitening experience, catering to those with sensitive teeth by minimizing abrasive content.

You might notice that some brands claim to “whiten teeth by several shades” in just a few weeks. While these claims are partly true, it’s important to understand the limitations. Whitening toothpastes primarily address surface stains and don’t change the natural color of your teeth or address deeper stains. If you’re looking for dramatic results, you may need to consider professional treatments or whitening kits with your dental professionals at Eggert Family Dentistry.

The effectiveness of whitening toothpastes also depends on how consistently you use them. With twice-daily brushing, you may start to see noticeable improvements in two to six weeks. However, the results are typically temporary. Surface stains can reappear if you continue consuming staining foods and drinks. To maintain your results, you’ll need to keep using the toothpaste or combine it with other whitening methods.

Are these toothpastes safe for everyday use? For most people, the answer is yes. However, overuse can lead to enamel erosion or increased sensitivity. That’s why it’s essential to follow the product’s guidelines and consult Dr. Elizabeth or Dr. Jeff Eggert if you have concerns. Some brands, like Arm & Hammer Advance White, incorporate baking soda to provide a milder, low-abrasion option for regular use.

Choosing the right whitening toothpaste depends on your individual needs and goals. If you’re seeking gentle care for sensitive teeth, a product like Sensodyne might be your best bet. For those aiming for quicker results, a toothpaste with hydrogen peroxide, like Colgate Optic White, could be more effective. By understanding how these products work and setting realistic expectations, you can achieve a brighter smile while protecting your oral health.

Do you have more questions? The team at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN is here to help! We look forward to seeing you soon for your first 2025 recare appointment. Call us today and get you and your family scheduled! 651.482.8412.

Kickstart the Year with a Brighter Smile: Exploring Safe and Effective Teeth-Whitening Options

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

The new year stretches before us like a blank canvas, brimming with opportunities and untapped potential. It is a time to dream boldly, embrace fresh beginnings, and seize the promise of brighter days ahead. If you’ve been dreaming about a whiter, brighter smile, make 2025 the year you make this dream a reality. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we offer three effective teeth-whitening options guaranteed to boost your confidence! However, before we look at whitening options, let’s cover some causes of tooth discoloration.

Why Does Tooth Discoloration Occur?

Several factors can contribute to discoloration and dull your smile. Some of these include:

Tar in cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco
Inadequate brushing and flossing, which allows plaque and tartar to build up on your teeth’s surfaces.
Tannins, pigments, and acids in foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, sodas, berries, chocolate, balsamic vinegar, and tomato-based sauces
Aging unfortunately darkens teeth

So, while some bad habits may be at play, you can also make healthy lifestyle choices and deal with tooth discoloration. Consequently, tooth discoloration can affect anyone. With this in mind, let’s explore some options to help you whiten your smile.

KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching™ System

One exciting teeth-whitening option is the KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching™ System. This option restores your teeth’s ability to absorb oxygen, allowing for effective whitening of up to 16 shades. The custom-made bleaching trays ensure a perfect fit. Kör is the most effective whitening system on the market and can bleach even tetracycline-stained teeth—something previously thought to be impossible. If you’ve been wanting to whiten your teeth but are concerned about sensitivity, Kör could be the perfect solution for you!

Philips Zoom Whitening Treatment

As the name suggests, Phillips Zoom Whitening Treatment is fast and effective. Completed in a single two-hour visit, this whitening option can whiten your teeth by 4-10 shades.

Here’s how it works:

We start by determining your teeth’s current shade.
We prep your mouth and apply a thin layer of whitening gel.
We illuminate your teeth with a blue LED light to accelerate the whitening process.
We repeat this process three times in 15-minute intervals.
We verify you’ve obtained your desired shade.
We apply a post-treatment gel to protect your enamel and reduce any sensitivity.

Talk about instant results! After your Zoom whitening treatment, we send you home with trays and gel to help you maintain your bright white smile.

Feeling skeptical? Check out these Zoom success stories and view before-and-after photos!

Professional-Grade Strips and Whitening Trays

A final, effective option we offer at Eggert Family Dentistry is professional-grade strips and whitening trays. Unlike over-the-counter teeth-whitening kits, these strips and trays help whiten the entire surface of the tooth—including the crevices between teeth. They also minimize sensitivity and whiten teeth anywhere from 2-8 shades, lending themselves to more comfortable and noticeable results than over-the-counter options.

If you’re going into 2025 with a less-than-confident smile, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert would love to help you explore which teeth-whitening option is right for you. Give our office a call at 651.482.8412 to schedule your appointment!

Hotdish and Healthy Teeth: Balancing Comfort Food with Dental Wellness During the Holidays

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

During the long Midwestern winters, we love to surround ourselves with comfort and warmth. From big blankets and oversized hoodies to toasty fires and green bean casserole, keeping cozy is the key to embracing the extended cold. With the holidays right around the corner, hotdish, turkey and stuffing, soups, and other comfort foods will be making frequent appearances at the dinner table. Fortunately, your dental health doesn’t have to take a hit. Learn how you can embrace hotdish and healthy teeth for a delicious and celebratory holiday season!

Indulge in Holiday Goodness While Protecting Those Pearly Whites

When you think about hotdish and other traditional holiday foods, it’s not hard to see how carb and sugar-laden our diets become throughout the fall and winter months. We know that cookies and candy can easily wreak havoc on our dental health, but we may not realize that carbs from all that delicious bread and savory stuffing, the carbs and sugars in our favorite Christmas pie, and the sugars in Grandma’s homemade cranberry sauce are just as likely to cause issues.

Sugar, carbs, and sticky substances can linger on your teeth, inviting bad bacteria to join the party. These bacteria produce waste products, called plaque, which can eventually harden into tartar. The bacteria also play a role in the weakening of your enamel through an acidic and erosive process.

Does that mean you can’t indulge in all the goodies that make Thanksgiving and Christmas so magical?

Not at all!

Here are a few tips that will help you enjoy holiday meals and treats while protecting your teeth:

1. Stay hydrated.

Our saliva has an important job, continually rinsing harmful bacteria from our mouths and dislodging food particles. However, saliva alone isn’t enough to keep up with the demand, especially when we’re consuming more carbs, starches, and sugars. Keep your body hydrated to maintain adequate saliva production, and regularly rinse your teeth by drinking water frequently throughout the day.

2. Incorporate fiber-rich foods.

Adding regular sources of fiber into your holiday diet goes a long way toward keeping the surfaces of your teeth clean. Whether or not you realize it, fibrous foods actually scrub your teeth while at the same time promoting gut health and saliva production.

3. Chew sugar-free gum.

Did you know that gum does more than freshen your breath? Sugar-free gum removes food particles, sticky bacteria, and plaque from your teeth, reducing the risk of serious dental issues like tartar buildup, cavities, and gum disease.

Your Teeth Have a Wish List, Too!

You might be hoping for a designer bag or a new pair of skis this holiday season, but have you thought to ask Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert what your teeth might want? It can be easy to take your teeth for granted when they’re doing their job and not giving you any noticeable issues. However, a little love can go a long way in keeping them healthy and happy for life!

Keep up with daily brushing and flossing.

Between shorter workweeks, longer weekends, and out-of-town travel, it can be easy to get out of our regular routines in November and December. Unfortunately, harmful bacteria don’t observe holidays. Resolve to brush and floss twice daily and after big mid-day meals for optimal oral wellness.

Swish with mouthwash.

Once or twice a day after brushing and flossing, swish with mouthwash to reduce enamel-eating acidity, loosen any food particles, and strengthen enamel.

Keep up with recommended recare visits.

It’s easy to get so busy with day-to-day life that, unless you’re faced with a toothache or a dental emergency, you forget to make wellness appointments for yourself and your loved ones. There’s no better time than the present to get your end-of-the-year recare visit on the books!

Give Eggert Family Dentistry a call at 651.482.8412. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert would love to see you in our office and partner with you to keep your teeth healthy all year long! And don’t despair that it’s all or nothing. With a proactive approach to your dental health, hotdish and healthy teeth can indeed go hand in hand!

Celebrate October: National Dental Hygiene Month at Eggert Family Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

October is National Dental Hygiene Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the importance of oral health and the professionals who help you maintain it. Dental hygiene plays a critical role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy, and this month is a reminder to prioritize regular cleanings and checkups. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, we take pride in educating you about how proper dental hygiene impacts your overall health, and we’re fortunate to have a team of skilled dental hygienists who are passionate about helping you achieve your best smile.

When you visit us for a cleaning, you interact the most with your dental hygienist. But what exactly do dental hygienists do? Beyond cleaning your teeth, they assess your oral health, screen for diseases, take X-rays, and provide personalized advice on how to care for your teeth and gums. They are your partners in maintaining good oral hygiene between visits, ensuring that you’re brushing and flossing effectively. It’s a hands-on, patient-centered career that requires both compassion and precision.

The journey to becoming a dental hygienist requires a solid educational foundation. Most dental hygienists complete a two-year associate degree in dental hygiene, although some may pursue a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene. In addition to coursework in anatomy, radiography, and periodontology, aspiring hygienists must complete clinical training, where they gain hands-on experience working with patients. After completing their education, they must pass national and state licensure exams before they can practice. This rigorous training ensures they are well-equipped to provide high-quality care and educate patients about oral health.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we’re proud to have four exceptional dental hygienists on our team – Lea, Cassie, Emily, and Shelley. Each one brings a unique set of skills and experience to ensure you receive the best possible care. These hygienists are dedicated to making your dental visits as comfortable and informative as possible, and they are always happy to answer any questions you have about your oral health. Their expertise and friendly approach make every visit a positive experience.

So why not take this October as a reminder to focus on your dental health? Whether it’s scheduling a cleaning, learning new brushing techniques, or simply asking for advice, our dental hygienists are here to support you. They work diligently to prevent dental issues before they arise, helping you maintain a healthy smile for years to come.

This Dental Hygiene Month, we invite you to celebrate the role of dental hygienists and the crucial work they do. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we’re proud to have such a talented team that cares deeply about your oral health. So next time you’re in the office, take a moment to thank your hygienist for their dedication – and don’t forget to floss! Call us today at 651-482-8412 for your next recare appointment!

Frighteningly Good Dental Hygiene: How to Keep Your Smile Scarily Clean

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! Yes, Halloween is just around the corner, and before you know it, adorable costumed children will show up on your doorstep hoping to avoid tricks and add some sugary treats to their stash. We don’t think there could be a better time to delve into sugar’s effect on teeth and discuss some important tips to keep everyone’s smiles frighteningly clean this Halloween and all year long.

Beware of the Candy Monster

Since we were kids, most of us have heard that sugar is bad for our teeth, but how many of us truly understand its impact?

The bad bacteria in our mouths love sugar. It’s what they live on! When these bacteria munch on sugar, enamel-eating acid forms. This acid degrades enamel, but it doesn’t stop there. It can invade teeth to the point of causing them to decay, and in severe cases, it can even lead to tooth loss.

Sour candies present the added challenge of being highly acidic in nature, posing an even more aggressive threat.

Fortunately, our bodies have a wonderful built-in defense mechanism against these destructive bacteria—saliva. One primary function of saliva is to rinse these bacteria off of your teeth so it doesn’t have a chance to produce acid that leads to decay. But saliva alone isn’t a match for ooey gooey sugar. Keep the candy monster from wreaking havoc on your pearly whites by limiting sugar consumption and prioritizing good dental hygiene!

Keep the Vampires Away With Proper Brushing

Good dental hygiene starts with a consistent brushing routine. The ADA recommends brushing your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste twice a day for at least two minutes at a time. Brushing partners with saliva to help remove acid from the surface of your teeth before it can develop into plaque or harden into tartar.

Be mindful of when you’re brushing your teeth. It might seem best to brush right after eating sweet treats or after you drink fruit juice or a can of soda. However, the acid from sweet treats and beverages softens your enamel, and brushing over soft enamel can cause more harm than good. If you do this habitually, you can actually erode the enamel right off your teeth! Give your saliva an hour to bathe your teeth before you brush. Less acid on your teeth means firmer, more durable enamel!

The Ghostly Importance of Flossing

Brushing is a critical component of any daily dental hygiene routine, but every superhero has a sidekick, and brushing is no exception! Once a day after brushing, be sure to floss thoroughly between your teeth. If you’re not accustomed to regular flossing, check out this article for helpful flossing tips!

Plaque forms when bacteria and acids from sugar and other carbohydrates sit on your teeth and mingle in your mouth. Flossing helps remove any plaque that’s building up between your teeth or along your gum line before it inflames your gums. If it’s not removed, plaque can harden into tartar and result in gum disease. Now that’s a scary thought!

Spooky Tips for Tooth-Friendly Treats

We’re not suggesting you be “that neighbor” and hand out bags of mini carrots to eager trick-or-treaters this year. (Although we do think it’s a brilliant idea!) But consider swapping out some of your pantry’s sugary go-to’s for healthier, tooth-friendly alternatives. Some ideas include: raw veggies and dip, popcorn, dark chocolate (the darker the chocolate, the less sugar it contains), nuts and nut butters, rice cakes, chips and salsa, and sugar-free candy.

And if you’re thinking twice about handing out candy this Halloween (and you can’t wrap your mind around handing out vegetables!), bouncy balls, temporary tattoos, pencils with cute toppers, friendship bracelets, or spider rings will delight the lions, tigers, and bears at your door…and their parents and dentists too!

Don’t Let Cavities Creep In—Schedule Your Dental Check-Up

Regular recare visits are imperative for any frighteningly good dental hygiene routine! Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN recommend a professional cleaning and a thorough inspection of your mouth, teeth, gums, and jaws at least every six months to keep your smile healthy and looking its best. Reach out to us at 651.482.8412 to set up your next appointment!

Oral Facial Development and the Origins of Mewing

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Facial development plays a crucial role in many aspects of life, including breathing, eating, talking, and even your overall appearance. The way your face grows and develops is influenced by various factors, including genetics, environmental influences, and habits that you may not even realize are affecting you or your children. Understanding the connection between facial structure and function can help you make better decisions for your health and well-being. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert are here to guide you in recognizing and correcting any issues related to facial development.

Why is facial development important?

One of the most important aspects of facial development is how it impacts your ability to breathe properly. The position of your jaws, the width of your palate, and the alignment of your teeth all contribute to how well you can breathe through your nose. Improper development in these areas can lead to mouth breathing, which is less efficient and can contribute to a range of health issues, including sleep apnea and other breathing disorders. This is why it’s so important to pay attention to the development of your child’s facial structure from an early age.

Eating is another daily activity that is deeply affected by the development of your facial structure. If your jaw is misaligned or your teeth are crowded, it can make chewing difficult and uncomfortable. This can lead to improper digestion, as food may not be adequately broken down before it reaches your stomach. Additionally, the position of your teeth and jaw can affect how you swallow, which is another important part of the eating process. Ensuring that your facial structure is developing properly can help prevent these issues and promote better overall health.

Talking is a vital part of communication, and your facial development plays a key role in your ability to speak clearly and confidently. The position of your teeth, tongue, and jaw all contribute to the formation of sounds. If there are issues with the development of your facial structure, it can lead to speech impediments or difficulties in articulation. This can be especially challenging for children as they learn to speak, and it’s something that parents should be aware of as their children grow.

What is “mewing” and how is it related to facial development?

One trend that has gained significant attention in recent years is “mewing,” a technique that involves positioning your tongue against the roof of your mouth to encourage proper facial development. This practice was popularized by Dr. John Mew, an orthodontist who believed that proper tongue posture could help shape the face and improve issues like misaligned teeth and poor jaw structure. Mewing has become especially popular among the younger generation, largely due to social media platforms where influencers and health enthusiasts share their experiences and results. The idea behind mewing is that by maintaining good tongue posture, you can promote a more attractive facial structure and prevent issues related to improper development.

The popularity of mewing highlights a growing awareness of the importance of facial development, particularly among young people who are interested in improving their appearance and overall health. While mewing can be beneficial, it’s important to approach it with caution and to seek professional advice to ensure that you’re doing it correctly and not causing any harm. Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert at Eggert Family Dentistry are knowledgeable about these trends and can help you determine whether mewing or other techniques might be appropriate for you or your child.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert are dedicated to helping you and your family maintain healthy facial development. They can assess your facial structure, identify any potential issues, and provide guidance on how to address them. Whether it’s through orthodontic treatment, guidance on proper habits, or education on practices like mewing, they are here to support you in achieving optimal health and well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, to schedule an appointment and learn more about how you can promote proper facial development for yourself and your children. Call us today, 651-482-8412!

Raising Awareness: Oral Cancer and the Vital Role of Screenings at Eggert Family Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

April marked Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a crucial time dedicated to highlighting the importance of early detection and prevention of this often fatal disease. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert took this opportunity to reinforce their unwavering commitment to your oral health. Throughout the month, they emphasized the importance of oral cancer screenings, which they incorporate into every recare check-up appointment.

Facts About Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a serious condition that affected approximately 12,000 people in 2023. It can develop in any part of the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, and the floor of the mouth. Unfortunately, oral cancer is often detected in its later stages, leading to a lower survival rate. In fact, the five-year survival rate for oral cancer is only 68%. This makes early detection through regular screenings critically important. At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff use the latest technology and techniques to ensure any signs of oral cancer are caught as early as possible, significantly improving the chances of successful treatment.

One of the key messages during Oral Cancer Awareness Month is that anyone can be at risk for this disease. However, certain factors can increase your risk, including tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is now recognized as a significant risk factor for oropharyngeal cancers, which affect the back of the throat, base of the tongue, and tonsils. The rise in HPV-related oral cancers has brought increased attention to the importance of the HPV vaccine as a preventive measure.

What is the HPV Vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is a powerful tool in the fight against oral cancer. It is known as Gardasil 9. It is most effective when administered before individuals become sexually active, which is why it is recommended for preteens, both boys and girls, starting at ages 11 to 12. However, the vaccine can still be beneficial for older teens and young adults up to age 26 who were not previously vaccinated. By ensuring your children receive the HPV vaccine, you can significantly reduce their risk of developing HPV-related cancers later in life.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff understand that cancer prevention begins with you and your ability to take proactive steps for your family’s health. They encourage you to discuss the HPV vaccine with your child’s healthcare provider and to follow through with the vaccination schedule. Vaccinations are typically available at your local healthcare provider’s office, community health clinics, and sometimes even through school-based programs.

In addition to promoting the HPV vaccine, Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff emphasize the importance of maintaining regular dental check-ups. These appointments are not just for keeping your teeth clean but also for comprehensive health screenings, including oral cancer detection. By incorporating oral cancer screenings into every recare check-up, they ensure that you receive thorough evaluations that can catch potential issues early, when they are most treatable.

Oral Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder of the significant impact early detection and prevention can have on your health. By visiting Eggert Family Dentistry for your regular check-ups and ensuring your children receive the HPV vaccine, you are taking vital steps toward protecting yourself and your loved ones from the threat of oral cancer. Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff Eggert are dedicated to providing you with the best care possible and are here to support you in maintaining a healthy, cancer-free life.

Call Eggert Family Dentistry today to make sure you have your family’s next recare visits scheduled. Summer is coming and the schedule fills fast, we want to help keep you on track for all your dental and oral health needs. 651-482-8412.