Eggert Family Dentistry Blog -

Is There Really a Trend of People Trying to Make Their Teeth Look Like Vampire Teeth?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Yes, believe it or not, there’s a growing trend of people altering their teeth to look like vampire fangs! Whether it’s a fascination with fantasy, a love of Halloween, or a desire to stand out, some people are embracing the otherworldly look by having their canine teeth sharpened or extended to resemble vampire fangs. This trend has become popular in various subcultures, including goth, cosplay, and even among fans of vampire-themed TV shows and movies. But, what exactly goes into transforming your teeth into something out of a Dracula novel?

If you’re wondering who performs this kind of work, the answer is often cosmetic dentists who specialize in extreme or unique modifications, many times these dentists are found in or near Hollywood. These procedures typically involve either filing down the natural teeth to a sharp point or using dental bonding to extend and shape the canines into fangs. Some people opt for temporary, removable dental veneers in the shape of fangs, which can be popped in and out for occasions like costume parties. However, the more permanent versions involve reshaping your actual teeth, which is a bigger commitment and harder to reverse.

The good news is that, in some cases, these changes can be reversible. For example, if dental bonding was used to create the fangs, a dentist can usually remove the material and restore your teeth to their original shape. However, if your natural teeth were filed down or altered significantly, reversing the look can be more difficult and may require dental crowns or veneers to rebuild the teeth. It’s always important to carefully consider the long-term effects of altering your teeth before taking the plunge.

So, what inspires people to want vampire teeth? For some, it’s all about embracing a unique identity and expressing their love for vampire culture. With the continued popularity of vampire shows like True Blood or The Vampire Diaries, as well as movies like Twilight, there’s a romanticized appeal to the vampire aesthetic. Others are drawn to the mystique and rebelliousness that sharp, pointed fangs can convey, making it a bold statement of individuality.

While the idea of sporting vampire teeth might seem extreme to you, for those who seek out this look, it’s often a form of self-expression. If you’re considering this trend, remember that it’s essential to consult with a reputable dentist, like Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert of Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN because they can advise you on the best and safest options. After all, your teeth are important not just for your appearance, but for your overall health too! So, even though it’s nearly Halloween, please call us at 651-482-8412 before you’d consider anything too extreme! We’re all for a little fun, but we also want to keep your teeth as healthy as possible!

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!

Avoiding “Spooky” Front Teeth- Mary Kay’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Mary Kay is a longtime patient of Dr. Elizabeth. She noted at her first appointment that she had “TMJ” and her right side was experiencing clicking and she was seeking therapy for the condition. TMJ disorders (or TMD) can manifest with different signs or symptoms for different people and encompass a wide variety of diagnoses. Typically, people with TMD experience pain in the jaw joint and/or in the muscles that control jaw movement. Dr. Elizabeth suspected that Mary Kay’s TMD could be related to how her teeth fit together and talked to Mary Kay about the benefits of orthodontics for her. Mary Kay wasn’t ready at that time, but after a few more sessions with Dr. Elizabeth and realizing that the cracking occurring on her teeth and the fact that she had already lost a few teeth at a relatively young age, Mary Kay did want to hear more.

Mary Kay’s Panoramic Image 2021, note the implant and some missing teeth.

Mary Kay suffered for years with TMD. Her bite put uneven forces on the teeth, she had crowding, and when she went into her chewing movements, her back teeth hit very hard. Luckily, orthodontics can improve a number of the issues Mary Kay had. When Mary Kay was ready, she went for a consult with Dr. DeVoe of DeVoe Orthodontics. Dr. Elizabeth works closely with Dr. DeVoe and she had confidence that he could help improve Mary Kay’s bite and therefore, her TMD symptoms. During the course of treatment, Dr. DeVoe discussed options with Dr. Elizabeth for Mary Kay’s front two teeth. Originally, Mary Kay had one existing porcelain-fused-to-metal crown on her right central incisor. With the wear pattern Mary Kay had on her other teeth, this crowned tooth no longer matched its neighbor in either color or size and shape.

What was involved?

Mary Kay completed her orthodontics with Dr. DeVoe. Mary Kay noticed an improvement to her bite and her TMD symptoms did improve as well. Mary Kay was also lucky enough to address a deviated nasal septum with nasal surgery. This also helped improve her breathing and helped her sleep improve. Improvements in sleep always help underlying pain issues with not only TMD, but other chronic pain conditions. To fine tune the bite, Dr. DeVoe asked Dr. Elizabeth to complete equilibration for Mary Kay in order to sync her tooth bite with her jaw bite. This also helped solidify a better bite for Mary Kay.

For her front teeth, Dr. Elizabeth discussed options with Mary Kay. Mary Kay had many options, including doing nothing. She could also have chosen to bleach all her natural teeth and leave her existing crown as is. Dr. Elizabeth recommended, for best color match and to be most conservative, that Mary Kay bleach her natural teeth and then replace her crown on her right central and also complete a crown for her left central to gain symmetry in shape, color, and contour. Mary Kay underwent Zoom in-office bleaching and then her new crowns were completed.

What does Mary Kay think?

Before having the procedures done, Mary Kay was just hoping her teeth would look better when all the treatment was completed. She said that the process of braces hurt at first, but noted that she got used to it and it was less intense the longer she had the braces on. “All of the steps from braces to replacing the front teeth went very smoothly. I am very happy with the outcome. My teeth look much better.” Mary Kay would highly recommend to anyone considering treatment with Dr. Elizabeth to do so because all the steps Dr. Elizabeth works through creates a great outcome as everything comes together!

Mary Kay – we are so happy that you are pleased with your results, thank you for your commitment and the trust you put into the treatment as well! Congratulations on your new smile! We look forward to treating you and your friends and family for many years to come!

Now, Getting Ready for College – Elena’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Elena came to Eggert Family Dentistry at the age of 15 as a referral from our orthodontic colleague, Dr. DeVoe. Dr. DeVoe wanted Dr. Elizabeth Eggert to evaluate restorative options for Elena because she is congenitally missing (was born without) one of her lateral front teeth and her lateral incisor on the other size is undersized. Dr. DeVoe anticipated that Elena would want a solution for her smile after her braces were removed.

A congenitally missing tooth is one of the most common dental developmental abnormalities. In fact, roughly 20% of adults have at least one tooth that never developed. Why is that number so high? Well, we’ve all heard of that person who didn’t develop all, if any, wisdom teeth. If you take wisdom teeth out of the picture, the percentage of adults with congenitally missing teeth drops to only 5%. Other permanent teeth we often see missing are second premolars, upper lateral incisors, and lower central incisors.

A wisdom tooth that never develops would typically be thought of as a good thing – one less tooth to remove! However, being a person with a missing front tooth can be quite a different story. Teenage years are difficult enough without having to worry about your smile. With the emotional roller coaster of being a teen, we need to give our children any excuse to smile and no reason not to!

What was recommended?

Dr. Elizabeth had some options for Elena for replacing her missing tooth. One option was to use a “flipper,” which is a removable partial denture that contains one or more artificial teeth. A flipper is often made from denture acrylic and can blend in well with your smile. The flipper is custom made using an impression or digital scan of your mouth. Flippers can be uncomfortable to wear and they do come in and out of the mouth, which can be inconvenient.

To replace missing teeth, you can also consider a bridge. A traditional bridge uses the neighboring teeth as anchors to “fill in the gap.” Since Elena was still growing and developing, a traditional bridge wasn’t Dr. Elizabeth’s first choice. A more conservative option for Elena’s age was to consider a composite bonded bridge, which still stays fixed in the mouth like a traditional bridge, but is much more conservative for neighboring teeth and can more easily be altered with growth, if needed.

Another common method to replace missing teeth is to use a dental implant. With a dental implant, a small post, usually made of titanium, is placed into the jaw bone and serves as a substitute for the root of the tooth. Then, through a series of attachments, a tooth is added to the implant. Again, because of Elena’s age, a dental implant wasn’t indicated…yet, anyway.

Dr. Elizabeth discussed pros and cons with Elena and her mom of these options and emphasized that something would have to be done to last through Elena’s teenage and early adulthood, even though a dental implant may be the best long-term approach.

What did Elena want?

For the undersized lateral on her right side, composite bonding was done to change the shape and size of the tooth. A porcelain veneer could have been done, but with Elena’s age, the composite material can more easily be changed, if needed, for future growth and development. As an adult, Elena could choose to convert her composite bonding to a porcelain veneer for ideal color match. After much discussion, Elena and her mom decided that for her missing tooth on her left side, Elena would use a flipper during the day and an orthodontic retainer at night.

Then what happened?

Throughout Elena’s high school career, she found it was inconvenient for her to wear her flipper and she also didn’t wear her retainer much so her teeth moved somewhat. In thinking of her life after high school, Elena wanted to review her options. Elena and her dad came to consult with Dr. Elizabeth she told Dr. Elizabeth, “I am interested in a bridge now.” Once again, Dr. Elizabeth reviewed Elena’s options in regards to how the most conservative approach would still be preferred. Dr. Elizabeth recommended that Elena complete a composite bonded bridge. Dr. Elizabeth would be able to artistically create a “fake” tooth and attach it her surrounding teeth. This choice is good for the esthetics and will buy Elena some time until she is older and can make some alternate decisions, if needed.

What does she think?

When asked how Elena felt about getting the procedures done, she said “I was looking forward to my tooth looking like a normal sized tooth.” She also said that her mom had a bridge done and so she was not worried about it. “I like it a lot and it looks good. It doesn’t feel weird to my bite. It does not feel weird when I chew or eat.” She is really happy to have her palate free! She would recommend that anyone needing the same or similar treatment done go for it. She says, “I like it! It’s nice to have a normal smile where all my teeth are a normal size.”

Congratulations on your amazing results Elena and thank you for putting your trust in us! We are delighted to help you move into your college years!

Composite Bonded Bridges: A Unique Solution for Missing Teeth at Eggert Family Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If you or your child has congenitally missing teeth, finding the right solution can feel overwhelming. Many dental providers only offer traditional bridges or implants as options, but at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert offer a unique alternative—composite bonded bridges. These innovative bridges are a rare treatment option, with only a few providers in the country offering them. We’ve been working with teenagers for years, helping them navigate these transitional years with confidence by covering up the gaps caused by missing teeth.

What makes composite bonded bridges so special? Unlike traditional bridges, they don’t require significant alteration of neighboring teeth. Instead, a composite material is carefully bonded to adjacent teeth, creating a natural-looking replacement that fills in the gap seamlessly. This is especially beneficial for younger patients who may not be ready for permanent solutions like implants. A composite bonded bridge provides a non-invasive way to restore the look and function of their smile without permanent changes to their developing teeth.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we understand how difficult it can be for teenagers to deal with missing teeth, particularly during such formative years. Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff Eggert have been perfecting this technique to ensure that your child can smile confidently and enjoy life without worrying about gaps in their smile. Composite bonded bridges offer a conservative, affordable solution that allows your child to transition through their teenage years without feeling self-conscious about their teeth.

If your child has been struggling with congenitally missing teeth, know that there is a solution beyond the typical options. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we’re proud to offer this specialized treatment to our patients, and we’re here to help your child feel confident and comfortable. Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff Eggert have the experience and expertise to guide you through this process, ensuring your child’s smile looks natural and beautiful as they grow. Be sure to check out Elena’s Story this month, our patient of the month, and call us today should you find you need this unique treatment option! 651-482-8412!

How CBCT Technology at Eggert Family Dentistry Can Help with TMD Diagnosis and Treatment

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If you’ve been struggling with jaw pain, popping, clicking, or stiffness, you may be dealing with TMD (temporal mandibular joint dysfunction). At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, we’re committed to helping you get to the root of what’s causing your discomfort. Thanks to our advanced CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) technology, we now have an even more precise way to diagnose and treat TMD, so you can find relief and regain comfort in your jaw.

CBCT scans offer 3D imaging that provides Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert with a comprehensive look at your jaw joint, surrounding bones, and expected areas for soft tissues. Unlike traditional X-rays, which offer only 2D images, CBCT technology gives us a 3D and detailed view of the complex structures that may be contributing to your TMD. This advanced imaging allows us to pinpoint any misalignments, degeneration, or abnormalities in your temporomandibular joint that could be causing your pain.

With this clearer picture, Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth can create a more targeted treatment plan designed specifically for your needs. Whether you need custom oral appliances, physical therapy, or even changes to your bite alignment, our goal is to help you manage your symptoms or keep you pain-free altogether. Having access to detailed CBCT images ensures that no aspect of your jaw’s health goes overlooked, giving us the ability to offer you more accurate and effective solutions.

If you’ve been dealing with chronic jaw pain or discomfort and aren’t sure what’s causing it, CBCT imaging could be the key to finding answers. Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert want to help you get to the bottom of what’s happening with your jaw joint. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we’re here to guide you toward relief and help you take steps toward a pain-free future. Call us for your consultation today! 651-482-8412.

Understanding TMD: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

You’ve probably heard of TMJ, but the term is commonly misused. TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint in your jaw or where your jaw opens and closes. What people often refer to as TMJ is actually TMJ disorder or TMD. When it comes to oral health, it’s critical to understand what TMD is, how it can present, and what you can do if you suspect TMD is an issue for you.

What is TMD?

When things are properly aligned and working as they should, we don’t give our temporomandibular joints a second thought. They are two of our body’s many unsung heroes. However, anytime you yawn, speak, or chew, you can thank your TMJs for making it possible!

Unfortunately, our jaw joints and the muscles and ligaments surrounding them can cease to work properly, resulting in jaw clicking, jaw and facial pain, and a cascade of other issues. 5-12% of people deal with TMD at some point in their lives.

What Causes TMD?

There is no singular cause of TMD. Instead, several conditions can result in a misaligned jaw and issues with the temporomandibular joints.

These include:

A jaw injury (often from sports or a car accident)
Malocclusion
Sleep apnea
Bruxism
Stress

Additional causes or activities that can aggravate TMD include:

Oral habits, like chewing on pencils, fingernails, ice, etc.
Poor posture
Stomach sleeping

Common Symptoms of TMD

Even though jaw and face pain are common symptoms, they’re not always present, or they’re accompanied by other seemingly unrelated symptoms.

Common symptoms include:

Jaw and facial pain
Jaw stiffness
Difficulty opening and closing your mouth
Jaw popping, clicking, or locking
Neck or shoulder pain
Pain behind the eyes
Back pain
Toothache or earache
Headaches or especially migraines
Dizziness
Ear ringing (tinnitus)
Teeth sensitivity with no other detectable causes
Loose teeth
Receding gums
Worn down or cracked teeth

Diagnosing TMD

If you have one or several of these symptoms and are suspicious that you’re dealing with TMD, make an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert. They will explore your health history, perform a dental exam, and take any necessary imaging to diagnose or rule out TMD. During your dental exam, they will observe and feel your jaw joints and muscles when you open and close your mouth and may press on your face and jaws to test for areas of sensitivity.

Treatment Options for TMD

TMD treatment runs the gamut:

Pain relievers, NSAIDs, and muscle relaxers can help with day-to-day discomfort. For some people, however, the pain is persistent, and over-the-counter and prescription meds don’t cut it. They’re dealing with other bothersome symptoms and need a more proactive approach. This medicinal approach works best for short-lived or acute TMD issues.
Custom oral splints can relieve tension in the jaw and keep it properly aligned, reducing clenching and grinding.
Botox injections help relax jaw muscles and can lessen jaw discomfort. However, Botox will need to be repeated about every 3 months to maintain relief. Instead of Botox long-term, it is usually best to work to figure out the actual diagnosis of what is happening with your joint and look to make dental changes that can work for long-term relief.
If stress is the underlying cause of TMD, stress-management techniques such as exercise, meditation, and breathwork can get to the root of the problem.
If the atlas, or C1 vertebrae is out of alignment and causing the jaw to be misaligned, working with an upper cervical (NUCCA) chiropractor can be an effective way to realign the jaw and alleviate TMD symptoms.
After an oral exam and x-rays, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert may determine you’re a good candidate for occlusal equilibration. Occlusal equilibration involves subtly and precisely reshaping the biting surfaces of the teeth to correct the alignment of the bite and the position of the jaw. This process allows jaw muscles to relax and reduces or eliminates pain and sensitivity.
Orthodontics can also be an effective way to change tooth positions and your bite to help alleviate the muscle and joint strain of TMD.
In severe cases when less invasive treatments and techniques don’t alleviate TMJ issues, TMJ surgery may be required. Arthroscopy, arthrocentesis, and open-joint surgery are two surgical approaches to TMD.

Prevention for TMD

A recent NIDCR study identified clinical, psychological, sensory, genetic, and nervous system factors that may increase a person’s risk for TMD. In other words, while it’s treatable, it isn’t always avoidable. However, there are a few precautions you can take to reduce the likelihood of developing TMD.

Don’t stomach sleep. Sleep in a position that properly supports your head, neck, and spine.
Maintain good posture. Utilize physical therapy or chiropractic treatments to stay in alignment or consider yoga with a certified instructor.
Practice stress-reduction techniques.
Be mindful of chewing. Don’t chew on inanimate objects like pencils and don’t chew your fingernails. Avoid taking huge bites of food and overextending your jaw. Minimize or eliminate gum chewing.
Schedule routine recare visits at Eggert Family Dentistry!

If you’re experiencing bothersome symptoms and suspect you’re dealing with TMD, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert of North Oaks, MN will perform a TMD evaluation. If they detect TMD, they’ll create a personalized treatment plan that realigns your jaw and alleviates pain. Give us a call at 651.482.8412 to schedule your appointment!

“I’d Like to Get Some Veneers” – The Dental Journey for Kris

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Kris came to Eggert Family Dentistry as a new patient in the summer of 2021, looking for a clinic closer to home after she had moved to the area. Kris had been through Invisalign treatment in recent years, but her teeth had relapsed and she wasn’t happy with how things had changed. She also noted that she had a small mouth and a gag reflex that made it difficult for her to tolerate x-rays. Dr. Elizabeth was curious, wondering if Kris might have a compromised airway? At her new patient appointment, Kris asked Dr. Elizabeth, “I’d like to get some veneers, but what would be involved?” Kris told Dr. Elizabeth that previously a different dentist told her she would not be a candidate for veneers due to her bite. Elizabeth believed that Kris would be a candidate for veneers, but suspected that some tooth movement first would be best. So, Dr. Elizabeth welcomed Kris to undergo the records process with her in order to figure out how to get Kris the smile she deserves!

What did Kris want?

Kris’ main objective was to have whiter and bigger teeth. She wanted to be able to eat without any limitations and have her teeth show in her smile. She was sure it would give her so much more confidence. She had friends who had had veneers done on their teeth and she loved the result. What she didn’t know until undergoing the records process was why her teeth had relapsed after her last Invisalign treatment and why she had such a severe gag reflex. Dr. Elizabeth noticed that her tooth positions were putting strain on her tongue and it looked like her tongue craved more space. Dr. Elizabeth believed by addressing this, she could help Kris have a much more stable end result, a better airway, and set her up for beautiful veneers. Therefore, Kris started her treatment with Invisalign.

What was involved?

Kris underwent Invisalign treatment with goals to improve her crowding, expand her arch, create space for porcelain veneers, level her gum tissue, and provide comforting support for her joints and muscles. After less than a year of Invisalign, Kris was then ready to plan for her restorations. Before starting the restorations, Kris underwent Zoom Whitening in-office bleaching at Eggert Family Dentistry for both her upper and lower arches to help achieve the brightness she wanted. A mock-up was done as well, to verify the shape of her future veneers. Once Kris was happy with the color of the teeth that would stay natural and after she approved her mock-up, Kris was ready to prepare the teeth for veneers. She spent part of the day with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and went through the procedures needed to get her teeth ready for her veneers. After about 3 weeks with temporary veneers, Kris came back to seat her veneers. Kris chose to veneer 8 teeth on her upper arch.

What does Kris think of her results?

Before undergoing procedures to get her veneers, Kris told us “I was really nervous because I didn’t know what to expect. It seemed overwhelming in the beginning.” Yet, she was very confident in Dr. Elizabeth and was excited to start the journey. Kris told us that she didn’t mind the whole process and after undergoing everything, she understands the need for it to take some time.

Kris is very happy with her results. She told us “Thank you! I love it so much! I am super happy with everything!” She also shared, “I think it’s so funny that people at work and my friends can tell something is different but cannot pinpoint what it is!” She would definitely recommend the treatment to others and says, “It is a team effort and you have to do everything that is expected of you for the best results.” Kris feels that having a better smile is fantastic. She would tell anyone thinking of having the treatment done “Do it in a heartbeat! Of course, it is an investment but it’s not as bad as you think and definitely worth it!”

Congratulations Kris – you look fabulous and we appreciate your trust in us to help us live out our motto of providing “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles!”

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!