Tag: Minnesota Dentists

Treating Sleep-Disordered Breathing: 4 Benefits of the Seattle Protocol

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Some patients who come to us with chronic dental problems also present airway patency issues. Simply put, airway patency is the ability of a person to breathe, with airflow passing to and from the respiratory system through the oral and nasal passages.

When a person experiences difficulty breathing, especially at night, this can 1) negatively affect one’s oral health, and 2) continue to damage the teeth even after restorative dental procedures have been completed. 

So, what does that mean for patients of Eggert Family Dentistry? It means that before beginning any restorative dental treatment, we need to identify and address these airway patency issues using a process called the Seattle Protocol. 

The Seattle Protocol

The Seattle Protocol is a six-step process that helps patients with symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing and other conditions determine whether a compromised airway is contributing to their ailments. 

Each of the six steps builds upon the last to open the airway as much as possible, but patients don’t necessarily need to complete the entire process to identify the solution. The purpose of the protocol is to determine which step provides the patient the most relief of symptoms.

Here is a brief description of the six steps of the Seattle Protocol:

  1. Nose Breathing and Mouth Taping: During this stage, you will gently train your body to breathe through your nose, not your mouth.
  2. Temporary Splint for Lower Jaw and Mouth Taping: Once you’ve adjusted to the mouth taping, the second step of the protocol adds a temporary splint for your lower jaw while you sleep.
  3. Temporary Splint for Lower Jaw with Lower Jaw Pulled Forward and Mouth Taping: If adding the lower splint only isn’t giving you the restful sleep you deserve, we add an element that pulls your lower jaw forward.
  4. Temporary Splint for Lower and Upper Jaw with Mouth Taping: If you aren’t getting relief from the previous step, we remove the forward jaw posturing component and add a splint for your upper jaw.
  5. Temporary Splint for Lower and Upper Jaw with Lower Jaw Pulled Forward and Mouth Taping: If you need to continue in the protocol, step five again adds a horizontal component by linking the upper and lower splints together and moving the lower jaw forward.
  6. Temporary Splint for Lower and Upper Jaw with Lower Jaw Progressively Pulled Forward and Mouth Taping: If you still aren’t getting that good night’s sleep, we move to the final stage of the Seattle Protocol. In this stage, we keep moving your lower jaw forward, incrementally, until you feel well-rested.

As we said before, the goal of the Seattle Protocol is to open the airways as much as possible so that your breathing is no longer restricted. You can find a full description of each of the six steps here.

The Benefits of the Seattle Protocol

The main benefit of the Seattle Protocol is to determine a good position to help control your sleep-disordered breathing. However, the Seattle Protocol also comes with a host of other positive benefits for our patients. 

Improved safety: The Seattle Protocol prioritizes patient safety by allowing us to take a systematic and collaborative approach to airway management. By following a standardized protocol, Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert can identify and address airway issues quickly and effectively, minimizing the risk of complications during dental procedures. It is also completely reversible so there are no long-term ill-effects.

Increased comfort: The Seattle Protocol takes a gradual and gentle approach to airway management to maximize patient comfort by introducing interventions slowly and adjusting them as needed. More importantly, when the Seattle Protocol is successful, our patients can finally enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep!

Better outcomes: By identifying and addressing airway issues before beginning any dental restorations, the Seattle Protocol ensures that our patients can maintain their new smiles for as long as possible, without any complications. This will not only help our patients recover more quickly but also ensure that they get the most out of their financial investment. 

Personalized care: The Seattle Protocol is designed to be flexible and adaptable to the individual needs of each patient. By tailoring interventions to each patient’s unique situation, we can provide the solution that’s right for you. 

At Eggert Family Dentistry, the Seattle Protocol assists us in treating our patients with airway patency issues or sleep-disordered breathing. The systematic steps allow us to both address the problem and identify the solution so our patients can receive the best possible care during dental procedures, and achieve the best possible outcomes afterward!

Real Results: Tom’s Story 

One of our patients, Tom, came to us with excessive wear, erosion, and many fractured teeth. Tom needed to reconstruct his mouth and we did that in phases, however, during the process we ran into a few complications: 

The force of Tom’s bite was so strong that he broke many temporary crowns. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert wanted to get down to the bottom of why Tom’s body would do this because even new crowns wouldn’t survive in such a harsh environment. 

Given Tom’s other symptoms, including difficulty breathing through his nose, dry mouth, and the use of a CPAP machine, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert recommended Tom complete the Seattle Protocol to help address his airway patency.

After completing five of the six steps of the Seattle Protocol, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert fabricated a sleep appliance for Tom to continue to improve his airway patency, reduce his bruxism and help him sleep better. After just a month of using his sleep appliance, Tom experienced less clenching, jaw pain, and an overall improvement in his sleep!

Think You Could Benefit from the Seattle Protocol? 

If you, too, are experiencing airway patency issues or sleep-disordered breathing, call our office today to schedule a consultation. At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert will be able to collaborate with you on finding a solution to your unique situation. If you think you could benefit from the Seattle Protocol, contact us or call us at 651-482-8412 for a consultation today!

Treatment Options for a Full Mouth Reconstruction

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If you’re experiencing constant dental pain, have frequent dental visits to address problems, or simply have multiple cracked, broken, missing, or badly worn teeth, it might be time to consider a full mouth reconstruction. 

A full mouth reconstruction is a comprehensive dental treatment that involves restoring or replacing all of the teeth in a patient’s mouth. This process usually includes a combination of restorative, cosmetic, and orthodontic or surgical procedures. Many of our patients here at Eggert Family Dentistry report feeling transformed when the treatment process is finished! This process, while it can be long and involved, provides our patients with an attractive smile and a healthy mouth, free of pain or discomfort!

Who Needs a Full Mouth Reconstruction?

A full mouth reconstruction may be needed for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Severe tooth decay
  • Significant occlusal (bite) issues
  • Advanced gum disease
  • Trauma to the teeth and jaw
  • Congenital defects that affect the structure and function of the teeth and jaw 
  • Long-term chronic illness 
  • Oral cancer or cancer treatment

Because the reasons for full mouth reconstruction vary so widely, so too do the treatment options. A combination of treatments is usually required for a holistic and comprehensive treatment plan that suits each patient’s unique needs.

Treatment Options for Full Mouth Reconstruction

We offer a variety of effective treatment options for a full mouth reconstruction, including orthodontic treatment with Invisalign, dental implant coordination with our preferred oral surgeons, prosthetic implant options, and dental restorations like crowns or veneers. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert will work closely with you to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.

Orthodontic Treatment: Your occlusion, or how your teeth contact, must be addressed before we perform additional restorative procedures. Orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners like Invisalign, can be used to straighten crooked or misaligned teeth. Orthodontic treatments will improve your bite and the symmetry of your smile.

Dental Implants: Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth. They consist of titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone and provide a stable foundation for a replacement tooth, bridge, or even denture. Dental implants offer a permanent solution for missing teeth and can improve the appearance, function, and overall health of the mouth.

Dental Restorations: Dental restorations like Dental crowns or veneers are used to restore damaged or decayed teeth. They are custom-made to fit over the affected tooth and are designed to look and function like a natural tooth. Crowns and veneers can improve the strength and durability of a tooth and can also improve the appearance of a patient’s smile.

What to Expect From Eggert Family Dentistry

Here’s what you can expect when receiving a full mouth reconstruction at Eggert Family Dentistry.

  • Evaluation: You will come in for a consultation with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert, during which we’ll conduct a detailed evaluation of your muscles, jaws, and teeth. This is also where we’ll talk about any health considerations you have, as well as your esthetic goals.
  • Determining a treatment plan: Based on all of the above considerations, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert will work with you to determine a treatment plan that best suits your needs. We’ll answer any questions you may have so that you receive the perfect personalized solution. 
  • Treatment: This treatment is a long-term project involving multiple visits, but we will be happy to walk you through every aspect of your treatment plan, so you have a clear idea of the timeline. We will also help you work with our preferred dental specialists if needed like an oral surgeon or orthodontist. Depending on which treatments you need, the full mouth reconstruction process can take anywhere from 6 months to two years. 

Let’s Give You the Smile You’ve Been Dreaming Of 

Eggert Family Dentistry is a highly respected dental practice that offers comprehensive full mouth reconstruction services. Dr. Jeff Eggert and Elizabeth Eggert and their team use state-of-the-art technology and techniques to help their patients achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile. If you are in need of a full mouth reconstruction, Eggert Family Dentistry is here for you. Contact us today or give us a call at 651.482.8412 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you achieve a healthy, confident smile!

Full Mouth Reconstruction: The Importance of Treatment Planning

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Whether you’re dealing with extensive tooth loss from injury or aging or severe tooth decay, if you have an array of dental issues that have been causing you problems, you may be a candidate for a full mouth reconstruction. 

A full mouth reconstruction is a comprehensive dental treatment that involves restoring or replacing all of the teeth in a patient’s mouth. This process usually includes a combination of restorative, cosmetic, and orthodontic or surgical procedures to address a variety of dental problems, such as missing teeth, tooth decay, gum disease, and bite issues. 

As with all complex processes, it’s imperative to plan your course of action ahead of time if you want the best outcome. For a full mouth reconstruction, Eggert Family Dentistry provides quality treatment planning which involves careful assessments, diagnosis, and treatment. 

Let’s take a look at the importance of treatment planning for a full mouth reconstruction:

1. Getting an Accurate Diagnosis and Assessment

Treatment planning for a full mouth reconstruction starts with a comprehensive dental examination as part of our Records Process. The Records Process includes gathering x-rays, photographs, and impressions of the teeth and gums. The examination will allow Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert to take note of any bite issues, jaw problems, or esthetic concerns. With this information, we can then make an accurate diagnosis that will help us develop a treatment plan that meets your specific needs and goals.

2. Creating a Customized Treatment Plan That Meets Your Unique Needs

Because every patient’s dental needs and goals are unique, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to a treatment plan for a full mouth reconstruction. A customized treatment plan will be developed based on your dental assessments and preferences. 

At this stage, Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert will provide a detailed explanation of why we recommend a certain course of treatment and what it involves. This plan will outline the recommended procedures and expected timeline for completion. We will review the entire treatment plan with you, including follow-up visits, and provide you with instructions to support your treatment plan at home. During this stage, we may also create a dental mock-up, or a 3-D model of your smile that will show you the expected outcome of your treatment.

3. Taking A Comprehensive Approach to Treatment

A full mouth reconstruction typically involves multiple dental procedures, such as dental implants, crowns, bridges, and veneers. Oftentimes, ways to improve the bite, like splint therapy or orthodontics may also be indicated. Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert will work to improve the overall look of your smile. The entire treatment will likely take multiple office visits. 

4. Minimizing Treatment Time and Cost

Treatment planning for a full mouth reconstruction is essential for minimizing treatment time and cost. By carefully outlining the procedures and optimizing their outcomes, we can reduce the number of visits needed and the duration of the treatment. Additionally, a detailed treatment plan will help you understand the cost of each procedure and plan accordingly, avoiding unexpected expenses.

5. Creating a Better Patient Experience

Treatment planning for a full mouth reconstruction is critical for ensuring a better patient experience. A comprehensive approach that addresses prior dental issues and meets all your goals will help minimize pain, discomfort, and anxiety during the treatment. Additionally, a detailed treatment plan will help you understand the process, prepare for the procedures, and have realistic expectations about the outcome.

Let the Experts at Eggert Family Dentistry Plan Your Treatment

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we understand that quality treatment planning is crucial for a successful full mouth reconstruction. If you’re considering a full mouth reconstruction, it’s essential to work with a qualified and experienced dentist who can develop a detailed treatment plan and guide you through the process. If you’re interested in talking to Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert about a full mouth reconstruction, contact us today or give us a call at 651.482.8412. We look forward to creating a plan to achieve your healthiest, most beautiful smile! 

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How Eggert Family Dentistry Uses “The Records Process” and Mock-Up Procedures to Create New Smiles

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Our smile is often the first thing that people notice about us, and it plays a significant role in our self-esteem and overall well-being. People who experience frequent dental problems, however, can feel robbed of that sense of contentment and confidence. Fortunately, advances in modern dentistry have made it possible to transform even the most challenging smiles into works of art. 

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we believe that everyone deserves to feel proud of their smile, which is why we use a combination of the records process and mock-up procedures to create new, beautiful smiles for our patients. 

While the records process provides the foundation for developing a comprehensive treatment plan, dental mock-ups provide a visual “preview” of the proposed treatment outcome. Let’s explore how these techniques work and find out if they can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

What is The Records Process?

The records process is a crucial step in the diagnostic and treatment planning process. It involves gathering and organizing all the necessary information about your dental and medical history, current oral health status, and treatment goals to create a comprehensive care plan.

The records process typically includes the following steps:

  1. Comprehensive dental exam: For this exam, Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and oral tissues. This may include taking dental x-rays, photographs, and impressions or scans of your teeth and bite.
  2. Medical and dental history: We will then review your medical and dental history, including any medications or supplements you are taking, past dental treatments, any relevant medical conditions, or pain issues.
  3. Diagnostic tests: We may order additional tests or procedures to aid in the diagnosis and treatment planning process. This may include periodontal (gum) assessments, oral cancer screenings, and sleep questionnaires.
  4. Occlusal (Bite) Analysis: We will ask you to move your jaw through different motions as well as palpate your TMJ and muscles to check for consistencies with your bite.
  5. Treatment plan: Based on the information gathered during the records process, we’ll develop a customized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. This plan may include splint, restorative, cosmetic, or orthodontic procedures, as well as recommendations for sleep or medical follow-up, at-home oral hygiene, or preventive care.

Patient Stories: 

The records process is essential for ensuring accurate diagnoses, effective treatment planning, and successful outcomes. It also provides a baseline for monitoring our patients’ progress and adjusting treatment plans as needed. 

For example, our patient “M” had recently undergone corrective jaw surgery, but was still experiencing issues with his bite. To make sure we got a holistic picture of M’s oral issues post-op, we put him through the records process and were able to determine that he needed to have his front teeth lengthened slightly to correct his occlusal imbalance. (Read M’s full story here.) 

The records process also helps us to determine external factors that may be contributing to our patients’ dental problems. For example, our patient Tom needed a full mouth reconstruction, but we were concerned that his bruxism would damage his new implants if we didn’t correct the underlying cause of it. Because the records process provided comprehensive knowledge of Tom’s other symptoms, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert was able to recommend further treatment that allowed Tom to sleep better and breathe easier at night. (Read Tom’s full story here.) 

What is a Dental Mock-Up?

If the records process is the “blueprint” for your treatment plan, then the dental mock-up is the architectural model. 

A dental mock-up is a procedure used to create a three-dimensional replica of your teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues. It involves creating a temporary model of the desired outcome of a dental procedure, such as a full mouth reconstruction, to allow you and Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert to preview the results before moving forward with the treatment.

During the mock-up process, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert will use dental material, such as wax or composite resin, to build up or reshape your teeth. This will allow you to see how your new smile will look and make any necessary adjustments.

Dental mock-ups are most commonly used for cosmetic procedures, such as porcelain veneers or an arch of new dental crowns. They are a valuable tool for both our office and our patients, as they allow for better communication and collaboration in the treatment planning process.

Are You Experiencing Constant Dental Problems?

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we take a holistic approach to oral health and want to make sure our patients not only have a beautiful smile, but a comfortable one too. If you’re experiencing a constellation of oral health problems and are interested in learning more about these unique smile-transformation techniques, please contact us or call us at 651.482.8412 to schedule an appointment! 

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Implant Supported Dentures vs. the All-on-4 Technique: Which is Right for You?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

While traditional dentures are an effective solution for some patients, they also can come with a few downsides. Because the bony support that holds the dentures in the mouth changes over time, traditional dentures tend to move while patients eat or talk. 

Luckily, when it comes to choosing dentures, our patients have more options than ever. Patients who are looking for a stronger, more tooth-like restoration solution may consider either Implant supported dentures or the All-on-4 technique. 

While both of these options rely on dental implants to support the denture, these solutions have key differences as well. Below, we’ve compared each to help you decide which treatment option is right for you. 

Implant Supported Dentures

What are they?

Implant supported dentures are a more stable, modern version of regular dentures. Just like traditional dentures, implant supported dentures can replace a full set of upper or lower teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, however, the dentures have much better anchorage as the implants are stabilized into the jaw bone. Usually, the denture is attached to 4-6 implants that act like tooth roots and help them stay in place.   

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, often made of titanium, that are surgically implanted into the jaw after a tooth has been removed. During the healing process, the implant will fuse with the jawbone, creating a permanent replacement for the missing tooth. Implants keep bone intact, therefore preventing the bone loss that’s common with traditional dentures.

The Implant supported dentures snap onto the implants, which hold them securely throughout the day. This significantly decreases denture movement, and gives them a greater biting force than traditional dentures, putting crunchy foods like apples and granola back on the table for patients with these dentures.

Who Can Get Them?

The best candidates for Implant supported dentures are patients who’ve recently lost their teeth since these patients still have better bone density to support the dental implants. The longer a patient is without teeth, the more bone loss will occur and it is difficult for implants to integrate successfully.

Patients who have been wearing traditional dentures may still be able to switch to Implant supported dentures if they haven’t yet experienced major bone loss. These patients will need to discuss their options with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert to see if their jawbone can still support this type of denture. Occasionally, it is possible to place bone grafts to improve the chance of a successful outcome. 

All-on-4 Technique

What is it?

The All-on-4® technique is a revolutionary method that offers full-arch replacement on as few as four implants. The All-on-4 technique is similar to Implant supported dentures in that it uses implants to secure the prosthesis. However, this implant technique is designed to maximize the existing jawbone and stays fixed in the mouth, which helps to make everything look and work much more like natural teeth.

Who can get them? 

The best candidates for the All-on-4 technique are patients who need a full arch dental replacement option and that want the prosthetic to look and function the most like their natural teeth. 

What is the procedure like?

The All-on-4 technique requires digital pre-planning so the surgery can be completed virtually first. Because of this pre-planning, the surgery goes smoothly and most often a temporary version of the prosthetic is placed onto the implants on the same day as the surgery!  

What is the recovery period? 

The recovery period is the same as it would be for Implant supported dentures, with the initial post-surgery recovery including 72 hours of rest, and the full recovery period lasting anywhere from 6-12 months.

Have Questions About Dentures?

If you’re still unsure whether you’re a candidate for Implant supported dentures or the All-on-4 technique, call Eggert Family Dentistry and schedule an appointment to talk with Dr. Jeff or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert about your unique dental situation. We’ll be happy to walk you through all your options and help you choose the treatment that best suits your needs. Contact us today or call us at 651.482.8412 to schedule your next appointment. We look forward to helping you have a smile you can be proud of! 

All About Partial Dentures: What Can You Expect When You Get Them?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

When most people think of dentures, they think of a prosthetic that replaces the entire upper or lower set of teeth (or both). But when you only have a few teeth missing, and your remaining teeth are healthy, partial dentures can be an effective solution to bridge the gap.

Partial dentures help fill in your smile, improve speech, and make chewing more comfortable, among other benefits. If you’re considering partial dentures, you likely have many questions. The purpose of this blog is to help answer as many of those questions as possible.

Here’s a snapshot of what to expect with partial dentures, as well as tips for taking good care of them.

What Are Partial Dentures and How Do They Work?

Partial dentures are a type of prosthetic restorative that fills in gaps left by sections of missing teeth. They function similarly to full dentures, but for a smaller portion of your mouth.

When you get partial dentures, they will be matched to the shape and color of your teeth and gums. The dentures sit on a base that rests on your gums, which is typically made of acrylic.  The artificial teeth themselves are typically made of porcelain or acrylic. Finally, a set of fasteners that grasp the adjoining teeth will hold the partial dentures in place. These connectors can be made from metal or plastic. 

Partial dentures are removable. Unlike a dental bridge, partial dentures usually don’t require much change to the surrounding teeth to hold them in place.

Creating your partial dentures is a simple, painless process:

  1. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert will take impressions of your teeth and measure your jaw.
  2. They’ll then have a partial denture framework made, which they’ll use to double-check the fit and make necessary adjustments.
  3. Once the framework fits well, they will ask for a try-in version of your partial denture and that will be checked again before the final partial denture is made.
  4. Then you’ll get your final partial denture and you can start wearing it right away.

This process can take several appointments over multiple weeks (or in some cases months). Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert can give you a more detailed timeline of how long it will take to get your partial dentures, depending on your personal situation.

How to Care for Partial Dentures

Caring for your partial dentures isn’t difficult and won’t take a lot of extra work. But there are a few things you should do to keep them in top shape as long as possible.

Putting Them In

Putting your new dentures in properly will take some practice. It may be difficult at first, and they may feel bulky or uncomfortable. Over time, you’ll adjust to them and they’ll feel more comfortable in your mouth.

Never force your dentures into place when inserting them. If you bite down on them when they’re in the wrong position, you could break something.

Cleaning

Partial dentures are easy to clean. Simply brush them at least twice daily (or after each meal, whenever possible). 

However, don’t use your regular toothpaste and toothbrush to clean your dentures. Instead, use a soft-bristled denture brush and a denture cleaner. Regular toothpaste or other cleaners can be too harsh and cause damage to the plastic of your dentures. And since dentures can break, it’s best to clean them over a bowl of water or a towel in case you drop them.

In addition to cleaning your dentures properly, you’ll also want to pay special attention to the gums and natural teeth on either side of the partial dentures to ensure they stay healthy.

Storage

You should wear your new dentures at all times, except at night. Take your dentures out at night because your dentures need a break from all their hard work (and so does your mouth!). 

Before you go to bed, remove your partial dentures, clean them, and then soak them in cold water or a denture cleaning solution overnight. It is important to keep dentures moist at all times, so never skip this step.

Are Partial Dentures Right for You?

Now that you know what to expect with partial dentures, you might have a better idea of whether they would be a good solution for your missing teeth. Of course, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert will be more than happy to help you make this determination as well. 

Simply schedule an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert to discuss the available options to meet your dental needs and determine if partial dentures are the right choice for you.

When Is It Time for Dentures?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Whether or not you need dentures depends on your unique oral situation. We are lucky to be in an age where very few people are unable to keep their natural teeth for a lifetime. However, even with a lifetime of quality care, it is possible to end up in a situation where dentures make the most sense as a tooth replacement option. 

Let’s discuss what dentures are, how they work, and when it’s time to come in for an appointment to see if dentures are right for you. 

What Are Dentures and How Do They Work?

Traditional dentures are a set of false teeth that can replace all upper or lower teeth. They attach to a gum-colored, acrylic base that sits directly over your gum tissue. These dentures are removable, and sometimes need adhesive strips or paste to help them stay in.

Not only can dentures improve the appearance of the smile, but they also support the structure of the cheeks and lips. Dentures are often used as the solution for advanced cases of: 

  • Tooth loss
  • Tooth decay 
  • Tooth pain
  • Tooth injury
  • Tooth and gum infection

While many patients report that dentures take time to get used to, dentures allow patients to look fairly normal when they smile, talk, and chew food, after an adjustment period, of course. 

What are Dentures Made Of? 

Dentures haven’t changed much in nearly 100 years, but in the last few years, innovations in 3D printing and design, have allowed for some new opportunities in denture design. If you don’t look too closely, they can look like real teeth. They have a gum-colored acrylic base and artificial teeth that can be made of porcelain, plastic, or hard resin. 

Even though they’re false teeth, it’s important to care for your dentures as if they are real by brushing them daily to remove food particles and oral bacteria. Additionally, take care not to drop them or damage them, as they can become cracked. 

It is also important to give your gum tissues a break and take your dentures out every night. Remove them before bed and place them in warm water or a denture cleaning solution like Efferdent. 

2 Signs You Might Need Dentures

If you have any of the following dental conditions, it may be time to make an appointment with Dr. Eggert to see if dentures are right for you. 

  1. Loose or missing teeth. Loose teeth can be a sign of periodontal (gum) disease and usually mean you are losing bone support for your teeth. At a certain point, if too much bone is lost, it becomes too difficult to treat the periodontal disease and Dr. Eggert may recommend that the most healthy treatment option is to remove the infected teeth and replace them with dentures. 
  2. Chronic toothaches or non-restorable teeth. If you have chronic tooth infections and toothaches, it may be a sign that your teeth can no longer be restored or saved. The bacteria cannot be managed in any way other than the extraction of the teeth. Dr. Eggert will remove the infected teeth and dentures can replace what is lost. 

Types of Dentures 

Full Dentures 

Full dentures replace all the teeth in your mouth and can either be conventional or immediate. Conventional dentures are made after your teeth have been removed, allowing the gums to heal. On the other hand, immediate dentures are made prior to surgery and can be placed immediately after tooth removal. (Immediate dentures will need many more adjustments as the gums heal and usually have to be remade within 1-2 years.) 

Partial Dentures

A partial denture is a set of replacement teeth that attach to any remaining natural teeth. Typically, partial dentures use the same tooth and gum-colored acrylic of full dentures but are attached to a metal framework. Some all-plastic options are available today and these plastic frameworks have become much stronger than in the past and are typically thought to be more esthetic overall.  

Implant Supported Denture 

An implant supported denture, sits on the gums and is anchored into place with dental implants. Implant supported dentures can be designed to be removable or fixed in place. These dentures are much more secure than traditional dentures since the implants anchor very much like natural tooth roots. They can look very natural and can last a long time. 

How Long Will It Take to Get My Dentures? 

The process of getting dentures usually takes anywhere from a few weeks to many months. During your first appointment at Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert will need to determine which type of denture is right for you. Then, the process of fabricating dentures typically includes many impressions and try-in appointments to make sure the design will work best for you!

Think You Need Dentures? Call Us! 

Getting older doesn’t have to mean losing your beautiful smile! If you think you might benefit from dentures, give Eggert Family Dentistry a call at 651.482.8412. Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert can address your concerns and discuss all the options available to you. 

Canker Sores vs. Cold Sores [and How to Treat Each!]

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

When someone discovers that they have a blister or sore in or around their mouth, there are two questions that usually come to mind: 

1. “What is it?”

2. “How do I get rid of it as fast as possible?”

Most oral blisters or sores are usually either a canker sore or a cold sore. Both of these types of sores can appear in varying degrees of severity, but luckily, they both go away in a relatively short amount of time. 

However, there are steps you can take to prevent these sores from occurring, and ways to treat them so that they heal faster. Let’s take a look at each type of sore to find out how to identify, prevent, and treat them. 

Canker Sores

Canker sores, also called aphthous (ulcers), are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues in your mouth, your gums, or your tongue. 

They are usually oval in shape and white or yellow in color, with a red edge. They may appear as a single sore, or in clusters. Canker sores are not contagious. 

Canker Sore Symptoms

Canker sores can be very painful, and can make it difficult to eat, drink, or talk. While they only last a couple of weeks, it can feel like a very long time for someone suffering from a canker sore. 

Along with pain from eating, drinking and talking, other canker sore symptoms may include: 

  • Tingling or burning sensation
  • Swollen lymph nodes 
  • Fever 
  • Feeling ill 

Causes of Canker Sores

It’s still unknown what exactly causes canker sores, but it is a fact that the sores erupt as a result of the immune system attacking the lining of the mouth. There are many reasons why your immune system would respond this way, including: 

  • Viral infection
  • Injury to the mouth
  • Eating too hot or too spicy foods
  • Friction between a dental product and your mouth (dentures, braces, retainers, etc.)
  • Chewing tobacco 
  • Sodium lauryl sulfate in certain toothpastes
  • An allergic reaction 
  • Celiac disease
  • Emotional stress 
  • Vitamin deficiencies
  • Hormonal changes 
  • Problems with immune system
  • Illness 

Canker Sore Treatment

Most canker sores will go away on their own and don’t require treatment. However, you should see Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, Dr. Jeff Eggert, or your doctor if your canker sore lasts longer than 2 weeks, becomes infected, or is extremely painful. 

If you have a severe canker sore(s), your primary care doctor or Dr. Eggert may prescribe:

  • Coating Medication: Mouth rinses containing anti-ulcer drugs that reduce pain and promote healing.
  • Viscous Lidocaine: A numbing agent that comes in gel form. It’s the most commonly used prescription canker sore medication.
  • Topical Disinfectants: These are prescribed to people suffering from severe canker sores to prevent infection.
  • Steroids: Prescribed for severe canker sores, steroids come in liquid and gel form and reduce inflammation and pain.

For most canker sores, though, over-the-counter pain-relief treatments are usually effective. These usually include topical numbing agents, such as benzocaine and lidocaine, that can be applied directly to the canker sore. 

At-home remedies such as applying ice to the affected area, applying milk of magnesia a few times a day, or rinsing with a mix of baking soda and water, can also help with pain relief and even promote healing. 

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we treat canker sores using Debacterol, an especially effective liquid topical agent. Debacterol is the only treatment for canker sores that completely stops the pain, seals damaged tissues, and aids the natural healing processes. It only requires one application, which takes only minutes to perform. 

Canker Sore Prevention

To prevent canker sores, it’s important to keep your immune system performing at its best, protect your mouth from injury, and to keep bad bacteria out of your mouth. If you eat healthy, avoid irritants, and maintain good oral hygiene habits, you will lessen the likelihood of developing canker sores.

Cold Sores 

Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, appear as small, painful blisters that first form a cluster and then burst, creating a sore. Once the blisters burst, the sore will begin to scab over as the body heals. 

Cold sores usually appear on the lips and area surrounding the mouth, but can also appear on the nose, cheeks, or eyes. Cold sores are very contagious, and can be passed on even when the blisters and sore are not present through a process called viral shedding. 

The good news is that cold sores are very common, and easily manageable. By taking the right precautions and treatments, you can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of your cold sore flare-ups. 

Causes of Cold Sores 

Cold Sores are most commonly caused by Herpes Simplex Virus Type-1, and less commonly by Herpes Simplex Virus Type-2. As we mentioned earlier, the virus is very contagious. Approximately 90% of people in the world have at least one form of HSV. 

Once you have the virus, it does not leave the body, but for the most part it will stay dormant. Still, there are a variety of triggers that can cause HSV to be active, resulting in flare-ups. Major triggers include: 

  • Weakened immune system: Your immune system can be weakened by excessive stress, fatigue, and illness, among other things. Many people report stress as being a frequent cause of flare-ups. 
  • Trauma: Any sort of injury to the lips or inside of the mouth can trigger an outbreak. That includes sporting injuries, cosmetic injections, and biting, chewing, and picking at your lips. 
  • Sunburn and dryness: Letting your lips become too chapped can cause an outbreak, as can getting sunburned on your face.

Miscellaneous causes include some food allergies, hormonal changes, and vitamin B deficiency.

Cold Sore Symptoms

Cold Sores can be very painful and can make eating or drinking difficult. They can also be unsightly, which is often stressful for the afflicted person, especially school-age children. 

The first flare up is often the worst, as it is your body’s first time dealing with the virus. Afterward, your body will develop antibodies to fight the virus, and you may never experience another flare-up. However, many people experience recurring cold sores.

Cold sores occur in stages: 

  1. Tingling and itching: You will first notice tingling, itching, or burning sensation in a small area with slight discoloration. 
  2. Blisters: 12-24 hours later, a cluster of blisters will appear and the area will become red and swollen. Within a day or two, the blisters will pop and weep. This stage can last up to three days. 
  3. Healing: A scab will form over the sore as the body heals, though it may crack or bleed. The scab will fall off once the area is healed, which usually takes about two weeks.

Symptoms that can accompany cold sore outbreaks include: 

  • Swollen lymph nodes 
  • Fever 
  • Illness 
  • Sore throat 
  • Headache 
  • Upset stomach 
  • Fatigue 

Learning to recognize the signs of an oncoming cold sore will help you catch it early and manage it better with treatment. Caught early enough, you may even be able to prevent the cold sore from appearing at all. 

Cold Sore Treatment 

While there’s no cure for cold sores, cold sore treatments can significantly reduce outbreak frequency and intensity. There are three types of treatment options available, and many people use a combination of treatments to manage their cold sores

  1. Topical creams: Creams that contain antivirals Acyclovir (Xerese) and penciclovir (Denavir) need a prescription, but will speed up the healing process dramatically. You can also use over-the-counter docosanol (Abreva), which will also speed up healing and numb the area. 
  2. Prescription Pills: Taking an antiviral pill can knock out a cold sore before blisters even appear. These include Acyclovir (Sitavig, Zovirax), famciclovir (Famvir), or valacyclovir (Valtrex). Companies like Nurx allow patients to order valacyclovir online. 
  3. Injections: This type of treatment is usually reserved for severe cases of HSV. Medicines such as cidofovir (Vistide) or foscarnet (Foscavir), and acyclovir can be injected into your bloodstream.

At home treatments include applying an ice pack to the affected area, keeping the cold sore moisturized, and ibuprofen for pain. 

Cold Sore Prevention

To prevent cold sore outbreaks, you should aim to: 

  • Manage your stress levels
  • Eat healthy to support a strong immune system 
  • Keep your lips moisturized 
  • Wear sunscreen on your face and lips
  • Avoid picking, biting, or chewing your lips 
  • Get a good night’s sleep to avoid fatigue

If you get recurring cold sores, or if you want to avoid coming into contact with HSV, the main precaution to take is to be mindful of direct and indirect contact. 

Cold sore transfer often occurs through direct contact, like kissing, or indirect contact, such as sharing a drinking glass with someone who has an infection. It’s good practice to avoid sharing drinks, utensils, or razors with others.

Even touching a sore and then not washing your hands can pose a risk of transfer. There is also a risk of transferring the virus from one area of your face (i.e., your lip) to another (your nose, cheeks, or eyes). Make sure to wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face when experiencing a flare-up.

The Bottom Line

With the right treatment and precautions, cold sores and canker sores can be less frequent and much more manageable. If you have questions about canker sores or cold sores, call Eggert Family Dentistry today to find out if you need further treatment. Our friendly team can answer any questions you may have! 

10 Dental Sealants FAQs: What They Are, Why They’re Important, and When to Get Them

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

There’s no doubt about it, children love sugary snacks and sweets. That’s why the first step in ensuring your child’s optimal dental health is to teach them good oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. 

But, if you want to give your child an extra layer of protection, consider having dental sealants applied at Eggert Family Dentistry. Sealants are a preventative measure that many parents take to keep their children’s teeth healthy throughout childhood. 

But what are dental sealants and how exactly do they work? Let’s go over the 10 most frequently asked questions about dental sealants. 

1.) What are Dental Sealants? 

Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings that are “painted”and then bonded onto the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Sealants are usually applied to the back molars, where bacteria and germs can easily hide, making these teeth harder to clean. 

2.) How Do Dental Sealants Work? 

Just as a raincoat will protect you from getting wet, the sealant protects the tooth by covering it, keeping bacteria and acid away from the tooth’s most susceptible surfaces. Less contact with bacteria, germs, and acid means fewer cavities and less tooth decay!

3.) How Long Do Sealants Last?

Sealants last for many years and can be reapplied if necessary.

4.) How are Dental Sealants Applied? 

First, the tooth is cleaned with an etchant and rinsed. The sealant is then “painted” over the adhesive as a liquid. Dr. Jeff Eggert, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, or an Eggert Family Dentistry team member will then use a special blue light to harden the liquid, creating a barrier between the teeth and any plaque, food particles, or bacteria.

5.) When Should My Child Get Dental Sealants? 

We recommend that children have sealants applied to their molars as soon as they come in. Permanent molars first come in at around 5-7 years of age, with a second set coming in between the ages of 11-14. The sooner the sealant is applied, the more protected the new teeth will be from cavities, saving you money and time in the future. According to the Center for Disease Control, “School-age children without sealants have almost three times more cavities than children with sealants.”

6.) Can Adults Get Dental Sealants?

Of course! Dental sealants can be applied at any age, though they’re most effective when applied from childhood. If you’re looking to prevent cavities for yourself as well as your family, ask Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert about scheduling an appointment to have dental sealant applied. 

7.) Will It Hurt to Get Sealants? 

Not at all. Sealant application is a pain-free procedure with no drills or shots necessary! 

8.) Do Sealants Make the Teeth Look or Feel Different? 

Sealants are white like your teeth so they don’t make the teeth look different. After sealants are applied, some patients report feeling like something is covering their teeth or experience the sensation of needing to bite down. But the sealant is thin, and the sensation will fade after a few days. Also, the Eggert Family Dentistry team can adjust on the sealants before you leave the office, if necessary, to reduce any strange feeling with your bite. 

9.) How Long Should My Child Wait to Eat After Getting Sealants?

You or your child can eat right away after getting dental sealants. However, we recommend staying away from certain foods, such as hard candies, jaw breakers, ice, or especially chewy foods, as these are more likely to break the newly applied sealants. 

10.) Are Dental Sealants Expensive?

No! Some dental insurance plans will cover sealants, but even without coverage, sealants are still very affordable. And dental sealants are a much cheaper option than having to get fillings done to fix cavities!

Let Eggert Family Dentistry Protect Your Family’s Dental Health 

Do you have more questions about dental sealants? Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Call Eggert Family Dentistry today to find out if dental sealants are right for your family, or to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping your family’s smiles be the healthiest they can be! As always, our motto is “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles!”

How Occlusal Equilibration Helps Jaw Pain and TMD

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, as many as 12 million U.S. adults suffer from pain in the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ), a disorder known as TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder).

If you suffer from TMJ dysfunction, you know how painful it can be. When your jaw is misaligned, it can cause agonizing joint problems as well as increased wear on your teeth.

Jaw pain caused by TMD is often solved using devices like splints and mouthguards, or even surgery. But if you have jaw pain related to TMD, there’s another solution that could help: occlusal equilibration.

Read on to learn more about this procedure and how occlusal equilibration helps jaw pain and misalignment.

Is Your Jaw Pain Caused by Jaw Misalignment?

Jaw pain can be caused by a number of factors. Some of the most common causes include: decayed or abscessed teeth, gum infection, migraines, sinus or ear infections, heart disease, bruxism (teeth grinding), and TMD.

The treatment for your jaw pain will depend on what is causing it. If your jaw pain is caused by jaw misalignment or TMD, occlusal equilibration could help relieve it. 

But how do you know if your TMJ is causing your TMD and jaw pain?

The simple answer, of course, is to visit Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert to determine the cause of your jaw pain. But if you are experiencing the following symptoms, TMD may be at the root of your pain:

What Is Occlusal Equilibration?

Occlusal equilibration is the process of subtly and precisely reshaping the biting surfaces of your teeth to correct the alignment of your bite and positioning of your jaws. 

A well-aligned jaw allows your upper and lower teeth to fit together properly when you bite down. But when your jaw is misaligned, your bite becomes uneven, putting stress on individual teeth as well as the jaw joint and especially the surrounding muscles. When the misalignment is corrected with occlusal equilibration, those muscles relax, reducing or eliminating pain and sensitivity. 

This procedure is generally pain-free, and doesn’t require anesthesia. It’s quick and affordable, and the adjustments are generally so slight that they don’t change the appearance of your teeth.

How Occlusal Equilibration Helps Jaw Pain and TMJ

When something keeps your bite from being evenly distributed throughout your mouth (tooth loss, clenching, grinding, and so on), it can cause occlusal trauma. 

This can manifest as worn or chipped teeth, sensitive areas on the teeth, gum recession, headaches, or a “popping” sound when you open and close your mouth. In addition, an uneven bite places pressure on teeth and this can accelerate periodontal disease including bone loss and loosening of teeth.

Occlusal equilibration redistributes that pressure so your bite is even, eliminating spots of excess pressure and allowing the bones and ligaments to heal.

During this procedure, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert will note all of the areas where your teeth don’t align properly, then re-shape and adjust on the teeth using the dental handpiece. This restores your correct mouth structure and alleviates pain caused by misaligned jaws.

Many of our patients who have had occlusal equilibration have seen results quickly, saying they can feel the difference in their bite within even minutes of the procedure.

Determining if Occlusal Equilibration Is Right for You

At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff both love helping their patients who would benefit from occlusal equilibration and they can help you determine if this treatment is right for you.

The first step is to schedule a diagnostic appointment, where Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert will assess your mouth’s structure and analyze how your teeth move against one another. This will allow them to determine if adjusting the biting surfaces of your teeth could help reposition your jaws properly. If they determine occlusal equilibration is right for you, our office will help you schedule a separate appointment for the procedure.

Ready to find out if occlusal equilibration could help your jaw pain? Contact us to schedule your diagnostic appointment.