Eggert Family Dentistry Blog -

Exploring the Benefits of Nasal Breathing

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Breathing is an unconscious act we perform thousands of times a day, yet the method by which we breathe—through the nose or mouth—significantly impacts our health. Nasal breathing offers numerous advantages over mouth breathing, influencing everything from oxygen uptake to dental health. Understanding these benefits and learning how to become a better nasal breather can lead to substantial improvements in your overall well-being. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert of Eggert Family Dentistry talk to their patients about nasal breathing many times each day. It is interesting how diseases of the mouth are linked to another feature on our face! Read on to learn more!

Benefits of Nasal Breathing

Breathing through your nose is the body’s natural and most efficient method. The nasal passages filter, warm, and humidify the air before it reaches your lungs, ensuring optimal conditions for gas exchange. This process enhances oxygen absorption and helps prevent respiratory issues. Additionally, nasal breathing produces nitric oxide, a molecule that plays a crucial role in dilating blood vessels, improving circulation, and boosting immune function. Check out this link describing how nasal breathing can impact an athlete’s performance: trainheroic.com.

In contrast, mouth breathing can lead to several health concerns. It often results in dry mouth, which diminishes saliva production—a natural defense against tooth decay and gum disease. Mouth breathing during sleep is associated with snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, conditions that disrupt restful sleep and can lead to daytime fatigue. Over time, habitual mouth breathing may even alter facial structures, leading to orthodontic issues.

Improving Nasal Breathing

Transitioning to nasal breathing requires conscious effort and practice. One effective method is the Buteyko technique, which emphasizes gentle, nasal-only breathing to improve respiratory efficiency. Patrick McKeown, in his book “Close Your Mouth,” outlines exercises such as controlled breath-holds and reduced breathing exercises to promote nasal breathing habits. Here is a link to more from Patrick McKeown: drchatterjee.com

Another strategy is to practice nasal breathing during physical activities. Start by focusing on maintaining nasal breathing during light exercises, gradually increasing intensity as your comfort improves. This practice not only enhances respiratory efficiency but also improves athletic performance by ensuring better oxygen delivery to muscles.

Role of Dental Professionals in Identifying Mouth Breathing

Dentists play a pivotal role in recognizing signs of mouth breathing. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert are adept at identifying symptoms associated with mouth breathing, such as dry mouth, inflamed gums, and certain tooth wear patterns, as well as increased tooth decay. They understand that mouth breathing can be linked to sleep disorders like sleep apnea and offer comprehensive evaluations to address these issues.

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Collaborative Approach to Encourage Nasal Breathing

If you’re identified as a mouth breather, Drs. Elizabeth and Jeff Eggert can guide you toward effective solutions. They may recommend myofunctional therapy, which involves exercises to strengthen the oral and facial muscles, promoting proper tongue posture and nasal breathing. For patients with sleep-related breathing disorders, they offer custom-fabricated oral appliances designed to maintain an open airway during sleep, thereby reducing reliance on mouth breathing.

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Incorporating nasal breathing into your daily routine can lead to significant health benefits, from improved dental health to better sleep quality. By understanding the advantages of nasal breathing and working with knowledgeable professionals like Drs. Elizabeth and Jeff Eggert, you can make meaningful strides toward enhanced well-being.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, whole body wellness is our goal for all our patients. We believe in “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles.” Call us today it will be our pleasure to help you with your comprehensive care and overall health! 651-482-8412.

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.

Elevating Dentistry: Dr. Eggert’s Insights from the AES Meeting & Other Updates

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Did you know that to be a licensed dentist in Minnesota, 50 hours of continuing education (CE) is required every 2 years? Did you also know that Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert of Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN participate in over 4 times the amount of required CE, by attending over 100 hours of dental education courses EVERY year?! We are so thankful to be able to take the extra time to be able to give our patients the latest and greatest experience in dentistry.

This month, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert attended the American Equilibration Society (AES) meeting in Chicago. The AES is a world-respected group that holds a meeting each year, originating as a group that focuses on temporal mandibular disorders (TMD). This group has evolved to include what’s up and coming in dentistry. This year’s theme for the meeting was “The Better Dentist Project.”

Dr. Elizabeth Eggert was lucky to hear presentations about Digital Smile design and what is happening with digital mock-ups for case planning. There is so much that can occur digitally, but the question always remains – will the digital result be better than the tried and true analog methods? There really are a lot of exciting things happening in this realm.

Another topic addressed during the meeting is a concept Dr. Elizabeth is familiar with, but doesn’t get the opportunity to put into practice very often. Did you know there is a strong connection between pain, including pain in the TMJ, and full-body alignment? Without the body in a neutral position, the muscles are pulling, and dysfunction often occurs. The splints Dr. Elizabeth fabricates help to give the body a different neurologic reference point, however, at times other forces in the feet, hips, spine, or shoulders fight the progress until we can also work with a physical therapist (PT) to help get the body in that neutral position. Dr. Elizabeth is excited to see the strides PT and dentistry can make together once we train more PT providers in this area.

Dr. Elizabeth heard Dr. Erin Elliott from Idaho talk about the State of the Union of Dental Sleep Medicine – the Past, Present, and Future. This talk was again a good review of concepts Dr. Elizabeth works to put into practice for her patients so they can be the best versions of themselves. Without adequate sleep, especially great sleep quality, it is impossible to thrive! Dr. Elliott works with many sleep appliances to help her patients and it was great to get her take on what is working best. There have been improvements in the materials available in the last few years and it was nice to get a summary of what’s out there.

The meeting wrapped up with new concepts in periodontal health, implants, and the future of dentistry (“Dentistry in the Metaverse”). It’s an exciting time to not only be a dentist, but to be a dental patient! Call us at 651-482-8412 to schedule your next dental visit. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert can’t wait to share their knowledge with you.

Understanding the Science Behind Emax and Zirconia Dental Crowns

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

When it comes to restoring your smile with a natural-looking and durable dental crown, your options have never been better. Modern all-porcelain crowns, such as Emax (lithium disilicate) and zirconia, provide strong and esthetically pleasing solutions for damaged or weakened teeth. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert carefully assess your dental needs to determine which material is best for your specific situation. Understanding the science behind these materials can help you feel confident in your dental care choices.

Emax (Lithium Disilicate): Strength and Beauty Combined

Emax crowns are made from lithium disilicate, a glass-ceramic material that offers an excellent balance of strength and translucency. This makes Emax an ideal choice for front teeth and other visible areas where appearance is crucial. The material mimics natural enamel remarkably well, allowing for a seamless blend with your surrounding teeth. Additionally, Emax crowns require minimal tooth preparation, which helps preserve more of your natural tooth structure. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert use Emax nearly every day because it provides a highly esthetic solution for your teeth. It is also our material of choice when fabricating CEREC “in-office and same-day” crowns.

Zirconia: The Ultimate in Durability

If strength is the primary concern, zirconia crowns are often the best option. Made from zirconium dioxide, a highly durable ceramic, zirconia crowns can withstand extreme biting forces, making them an excellent choice for second molars and patients who grind their teeth. They are resistant to chipping and cracking, ensuring long-term reliability. While zirconia crowns were once considered less natural-looking than Emax, modern advancements have improved their translucency, making them a more esthetic option than ever before. Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert may choose zirconia for you if you need a crown in a high-pressure area or have a history of bruxism (teeth grinding).

Choosing the Right Crown for You

The decision between Emax and zirconia depends on several factors, including the location of the tooth, your bite strength, and your cosmetic goals. Emax is often preferred for front teeth due to its lifelike appearance, while zirconia is recommended for back teeth where durability is key. At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert take a personalized approach, evaluating your unique needs to select the best material for your crown.

With today’s advanced dental materials, you no longer have to compromise between strength and esthetics. Whether you need the natural beauty of Emax or the resilience of zirconia, the team at Eggert Family Dentistry is committed to providing high-quality, long-lasting restorations that enhance both your smile and your dental health. If you’re considering a dental crown, schedule a consultation to learn which option is best for you! Call us today at 651-482-8412.

The Role of Dental Crowns in Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Believe it or not, dental crowns have been around since ancient times. Thought to have originated in Italy in the 700s BC, these first crowns were made of gold and communicated status among the aristocratic population. Fast forward two millennia to 1903, when Dr. Charles Land developed the first crown with hints of porcelain material as a way to repair a broken tooth.

Today, the role of crowns is two-fold. Crowns are both structural and aesthetic. Let’s take a closer look!

What Are Dental Crowns?

If you’ve heard people talk about crowns but you’re not entirely sure what they are, think of a crown like a hat or helmet for your tooth. This “helmet” fits snugly over your natural tooth, protecting it from splitting or breaking. Then it’s bonded into place. Before placing a crown, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert removes a small amount of enamel from your tooth to ensure a proper fit.

Crowns are available in porcelain, metal, or a combination of the two. With the steadily improving porcelains over the years, porcelain remains the most popular choice among today’s dentists. It is highly durable, looks natural, and can be matched closely to the color of your existing teeth. Porcelain is both functional and aesthetic.

How Are Dental Crowns Created?

Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert begins by examining your tooth and taking any necessary imagery to check its health and structure. If they determine that a crown is the best choice for your tooth, they will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and reshaping it to ready it for the crown. Then, they will take an impression or scan of your tooth either electronically or with putty.

In many cases, our amazing dentists can create your crown the same day with our CEREC method. If they need to order your crown from an outside dental lab, they will fit you with a temporary acrylic crown, and you will schedule an appointment for your permanent crown two weeks later. Any crown you receive at Eggert Family Dentistry will match the color, shape, and size of your natural tooth for a flawless appearance!

When Are Dental Crowns The Best Choice?

By nature, teeth are subjected to significant wear and tear. Over time, they can develop cracks, fractures and even start to decay. In these instances, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert generally recommend dental crowns to strengthen these weak teeth and extend the life of the natural teeth as long as possible. Restoring the integrity of a tooth or teeth is a crown’s primary function.

A Crown’s Many Jobs

Indeed, crowns are champs when it comes to protecting compromised teeth. But crowns have other important jobs as well!

Crowns can be placed on the teeth adjacent to a missing tooth to anchor a dental bridge securely.
Crowns can cover discolored teeth, creating a brighter smile.
Read Mary’s story!
Crowns should always be placed over a tooth after a root canal treatment to keep the tooth from cracking.
Crowns are placed on top of dental implants to restore function and appearance.

Extend Crown Life With Proper Maintenance

Crowns are durable, but they’re not indestructible. With proper care, crowns should last 5-15 years. In some cases, crowns must be prematurely replaced on account of poor dental hygiene or fractures to the crown itself. In most cases, however, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert replace crowns because acidic and sugary foods or dry mouth cause the underlying tooth to decay.

A crown is a lasting investment in your dental health. Use these tips to help extend its lifespan:

1. Maintain a consistent daily dental care routine.

When you brush and floss regularly, you remove harmful bacteria and sticky plaque from the surface of your teeth and between your crown and your gum line, decreasing the likelihood of tooth decay.

2. Wear a custom night guard if you grind your teeth.

Limit excessive bite force with a custom night guard. This is especially important if you’ve been diagnosed with bruxism. Learn more about the custom night guards we create for our Eggert Family Dentistry patients!

3. Limit your intake of sugary or acidic foods.

You might not think that sugary and acidic foods can affect a crown, but these substances can hang out around the gum line and cause the underlying natural tooth to deteriorate. They can also eat enamel on surrounding teeth, creating a visible contrast between the color of your natural teeth and your crown.

4. Steer clear of sticky or hard, crunchy foods.

Biting on hard candies, popcorn kernels, and other crunchy foods can weaken crowns or cause them to crack, just like your natural teeth can. Sticky foods like taffy and gooey candies can actually dislodge crowns while increasing your risk of tooth decay. Foods in these categories are best avoided.

If it’s been awhile since your last recare visit, schedule an appointment at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN. In addition to a thorough cleaning and careful inspection of your jaws, teeth, and gums, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert will closely inspect any existing dental work to make sure it’s structurally sound and doing its job and recommend dental crowns and other interventions when needed. Call us at 651.482.8412!

“I Want a Bright and Beautiful Smile!” – Shelley’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Shelley has been a long-time patient of Eggert Family Dentistry and was interested in Invisalign treatment as she felt that her teeth were crooked and she wanted to have a smile that she felt good about in family pictures. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert recommended that she go through the complete Records Process to analyze her bite and airway as well. Dr. Elizabeth wondered if there was more at play due to information that Shelley has shared with us over the years. Shelley also wanted to learn more about sleep appliances as she uses a CPAP.

What did she want?

Shelley wanted to have a white, bright, and beautiful smile. She wanted to feel good about her smile in family pictures, and with the many moments in the future that would be captured, she wanted to be confident about her smile and be able to enjoy and cherish these memories.

What was recommended?

Through the records process and with information from her doctor, it was determined that the position of Shelley’s front teeth and the existing wear likely are at least partially due to airway compromises, both at night and during the day. To correct the crowding, it was recommended that Shelley start with Invisalign. Through this process, Dr. Elizabeth would be able to unravel the crowding. However, it was noted Shelley’s tongue and arch form needed more space than her teeth would allow, so Invisalign would create spacing between her teeth. Dr. Elizabeth talked with Shelley about restoring her upper front teeth with crowns or veneers after Invisalign to account for the space discrepancy and to help protect the enamel that Shelley has worn away over the years.

What was involved?

Once the Invisalign was completed, Shelley did some whitening to brighten her smile and prepare for her restorations. Impressions were taken to develop a wax-up or “blue print.” It was only necessary to do restorations for Shelley’s upper front six teeth to help with the spacing issue and to better protect her enamel. Shelley was happy with the wax-up and so Dr. Elizabeth Eggert prepared her teeth and the restorations were fabricated. It was necessary to do more extensive porcelain restorations for Shelley – crowns that covered the whole tooth, because of existing fillings in those teeth. Zirconia crowns were done. Zirconia is a very strong all-porcelain material that has become very esthetic as well. More and more, it is being chosen for even front teeth.

What does she think?

We asked Shelley what she thought once the Invisalign and restorations were all completed and what she thought about the whole process. She said, “This is awesome and I’ve gotten a lot of compliments.” “Everything was great and went very smoothly – you guys were perfect!” When asked what advice she would offer a friend or family member thinking of changing their smile, she said, “Prepare and be patient, but I’m so happy I did this!” Congratulations Shelley! We love working with patients like you! If you’ve been thinking about improving your smile, contact us today to learn more about what Eggert Family Dentistry can do for you! 651-482-8412.

Unlocking A Brighter Smile with Zoom Whitening – Kimberly’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

At Eggert Family Dentistry we find that a lot of our patients are interested in professional teeth whitening and want to know the options that we offer. They are often looking for quick results, lower chances of sensitivity, longevity, and an affordable cost for the treatment. One of our most popular options that checks all of these boxes is the Zoom Whitening System. This procedure includes an in-office whitening treatment, which can brighten your teeth up to 8 shades, as well as take-home bleaching trays, which help to set and maintain the color. Using a special whitening gel and a blue LED light, in just 2 hours you will have a brighter smile.

Where did Kimberly start?

Kimberly and her family have been loyal patients of Eggert Family Dentistry for a very long time, always consistent with recare appointments and they follow through with recommended treatment by Dr. Elizabeth. Recently, Kimberly decided that she wanted to brighten her smile and set-up an appointment for the Zoom Whitening procedure.

What did Kimberly want?

Kimberly, like so many of us, had staining to her teeth and noticed that in the last few years, her teeth were getting darker and more yellow. She wanted to whiten them quickly and decided that the Zoom Whitening procedure was perfect for her needs. She was afraid that the over-the-counter whitening strip options would cause sensitivity. She also had heard from friends that the white strips can take numerous applications for very minimal improvements.

What was involved?

Kimberly came to our office for a 2-hour appointment. The Zoom Whitening procedure is performed in the office and starts with photographs, obtaining an initial shade, and taking impressions to create custom bleaching trays. After these initial steps, Kimberly relaxed in the dental chair as our assistant, Heather, applied a barrier layer for her gum tissues before the bleach was applied. Kimberly sat through four 15-minute sessions where the Zoom LED light shined onto her teeth with the bleaching gel. Zoom uses this light to activate the gel, which in turn accelerates the bleaching process. Essentially, the light energy speeds up the chemical reaction that whitens the teeth. While the LED light is bright and blue, some people mistakenly think it emits UV rays, but this is not the case at all. The blue light is perfectly safe!

While Kimberly was enjoying time to herself, Heather was busy fabricating her at-home bleaching trays so she could have them as soon as possible to help set the color at home. These trays can also be used to apply a desensitizing gel, if necessary.

What does Kimberly think?

“I was curious of how the process worked and wondered if it would work for me?” Kimberly found it to be very easy and she told us she was very pleased with the results. She would tell her friends that it was an easy process! Now with the trays that were designed especially for her and included in the treatment, she can continue to brighten her smile at home for even whiter results or she can use the trays when her teeth start taking on some discoloration again, therefore allowing her to keep her confident with her beautiful new smile for many years to come!

The History of Tooth Whitening

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

When you think of tooth whitening, you may imagine the sleek kits available today or the sparkling smiles from toothpaste commercials. But did you know that the quest for whiter teeth has been around for centuries? Tooth whitening has evolved significantly, both in its methods and its understanding. By exploring its history and how it works scientifically, you can better appreciate the advancements that have made achieving a bright smile safer and more effective than ever.

Your journey through the history of tooth whitening would take you back to ancient Egypt, where beauty and hygiene were held in high esteem. Egyptians reportedly used a mixture of ground pumice stone and vinegar to clean and whiten their teeth. This is actually a very primitive version of the prophy polishing paste now used by your friendly hygienists at Eggert Family Dentistry! The Romans had their unique methods as well, often using urine—yes, urine—because of its ammonia content, which has bleaching properties. These practices, while effective to some extent, were harsh and likely caused damage to the teeth over time.

Fast forward to the 18th and 19th centuries, when barbers doubled as dentists. You might be surprised to learn that they performed tooth whitening by filing teeth and applying acid. While it might have temporarily brightened teeth, it also eroded enamel and left teeth vulnerable to decay. It wasn’t until the 20th century that safer and more scientifically sound methods began to emerge, paving the way for modern whitening techniques.

Today, tooth whitening is backed by science and advanced formulations. But how does it actually work? When you use whitening products, you’re likely interacting with two primary active ingredients: hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These compounds penetrate the porous enamel of your teeth to break down stains at a molecular level. Whether the discoloration is caused by coffee, tea, red wine, smoking, or simply aging, these ingredients oxidize the chromogens (colored compounds) into smaller, less visible molecules, making your teeth appear whiter. There is also the effect of extra oxygen penetrating inside the teeth, therefore scattering the light differently and allowing the teeth to appear brighter!

You may wonder whether tooth whitening is safe. Thanks to rigorous testing and regulation, modern whitening products are designed to be both effective and gentle. However, overuse or misuse can lead to sensitivity or enamel damage. That’s why it’s essential to follow product instructions carefully or consult Dr. Elizabeth or Dr. Jeff Eggert of Eggert Family Dentistry. Many products now incorporate desensitizing agents like potassium nitrate or fluoride to minimize discomfort.

Understanding the history and science of tooth whitening helps you make informed decisions about your oral health. Whether you choose at-home kits, professional treatments at Eggert Family Dentistry, or whitening toothpaste, you’re partaking in a practice with deep historical roots and a bright future. So next time you flash your pearly whites, you’ll know just how far humanity has come in the pursuit of that radiant smile.

Make 2025 your year to make history! Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert would love to help you explore your teeth-whitening options. Give our office a call at 651.482.8412 to schedule your appointment!

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.