Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, Author at Eggert Family Dentistry Blog

The End of the Year Brings Time for Reflection

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

“Life has a curious way of throwing unexpected challenges our way, reminding us of its unpredictability and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.” This is how our blog from January this year begins. As many of you know, earlier this year, we shared the difficult news of Dr. Jeff Eggert’s brother, Matt, and his battle with Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer. At just 43 years old, Matt faced this aggressive disease with unwavering courage and an indomitable spirit. His team at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester were amazing at giving him more life when others had little hope. While his passing in September marked a heartbreaking end to his fight, his legacy lives on as a testament to strength, love, and the power of community.

Matt was a fighter until the very end. Even his last night in the hospital, when he no longer could talk, he kept wanting to communicate with Dr. Jeff about anything he maybe had missed. His journey was one of incredible perseverance and grace in the face of unimaginable challenges. In November, we had the privilege of coming together to honor Matt’s life at a memorial event that celebrated not just who he was but the impact he had on everyone around him. His obituary speaks for itself. The outpouring of love and support from friends, family, and colleagues was truly overwhelming. It was a beautiful reminder of the connections we share and the profound ways we can lift each other up in times of grief.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we are deeply grateful for the support we’ve received throughout this past year. Navigating such a personal loss has been made more bearable by the kindness and compassion shown by our patients, team members, and business associates. Your understanding and encouragement have meant the world to us, and we want to express our heartfelt thanks for standing by us during this time.

Life is short, and moments like these remind us of the importance of cherishing each day and the people who make our lives meaningful. As we move forward, we carry Matt’s memory with us, inspired by his courage and the love he shared with those around him. To all our patients, team members, and colleagues: thank you for being part of our journey and for allowing us to be part of yours. Your support and trust mean more than words can express, and we are honored to serve such an incredible community. Thank you!

What’s on Your Teeth’s Wishlist this Holiday?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If your teeth had a wish list, what would be on it? Likely, they’d be dreaming of a life full of health, strength, and sparkle. Teeth work hard for you every day, helping you eat, speak, and flash a confident smile. In return, they have a few simple wishes that can keep them at their best. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert are dedicated to helping your teeth fulfill these dreams. Let’s dive into what might top their wish list.

First on the list:

“Keep me clean and healthy!” Your teeth long for proper care, which includes brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. This keeps plaque at bay and prevents cavities and gum disease. Regular professional cleanings and exams are also a must. At Eggert Family Dentistry, our hygienists excel at keeping your teeth sparkling clean while checking for any potential issues. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert will also ensure your teeth and gums are in excellent shape by catching problems early and offering personalized care plans.

What else makes the list?

Second, your teeth might wish for a little extra protection. Think about custom-fit mouthguards if you grind your teeth at night or play sports. These simple tools can prevent cracks, chips, and wear and tear. Eggert Family Dentistry offers high-quality mouthguards tailored to your needs, helping your teeth stay strong and protected. Additionally, fluoride treatments and dental sealants might be on your teeth’s wish list to provide an extra shield against decay.

Lastly, your teeth probably dream of looking their best. Whether it’s whitening treatments to brighten your smile, orthodontic solutions to straighten your teeth, or restorative work like crowns and veneers to repair damage, Eggert Family Dentistry has you covered. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert combine expertise with state-of-the-art technology to make your smile’s wishes come true. When your teeth look great, you’ll feel more confident—and your teeth will thank you!

How to give your teeth what they desire?

Your teeth do so much for you, and they deserve a little pampering in return. By sticking to good oral hygiene habits, scheduling regular dental visits, and considering additional treatments when needed, you’ll help your teeth check everything off their wish list. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we’re here to make it happen. Call us today at 651-482-8412 to schedule an appointment and give your teeth the care they deserve!

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

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

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

Indulge in Holiday Goodness While Protecting Those Pearly Whites

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

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

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

Not at all!

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

1. Stay hydrated.

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

2. Incorporate fiber-rich foods.

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

3. Chew sugar-free gum.

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

Your Teeth Have a Wish List, Too!

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

Keep up with daily brushing and flossing.

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

Swish with mouthwash.

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

Keep up with recommended recare visits.

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

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

“All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth” – Connor’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Connor started seeing Dr. Elizabeth in the fall of 2020. Connor was born without two lower teeth. The teeth were congenitally missing, a condition often known as hypodontia. To mask this, Connor had been wearing a metal wire retainer (Hawley retainer) with two teeth attached to it since his braces were removed many years prior. Why some people are born without certain teeth is unknown. While there are often genetic or heredity links, it isn’t always that parents pass this condition on to their children, in fact, it is often found to skip a generation. Treatments for congenitally missing teeth usually include bridges, dentures, or dental implants. Often orthodontic treatment is also necessary to make sure the spacing available is adequate.

What was recommended?

Dr. Elizabeth talked with Connor about treatment options for the future, should he ever decide that wearing a retainer full time wasn’t for him. In an ideal world, implants can replace congenitally missing teeth without altering any other teeth in the area. Connor did go for a consult with the oral surgeon, hoping to hear that he could undergo implant treatment whenever he was tired of wearing his retainer. Unfortunately, Connor doesn’t have enough space for implants.

What this means is that Connor will have to undergo orthodontic treatment (again) before any implant surgery can be done. Connor and his mom and dad weren’t excited about that option and wanted to know what alternative treatment options he has. Connor goes to college and does not feel that orthodontic treatment at this point in his life is what he wants.

Connor could choose traditional bridges, but Dr. Elizabeth was not in favor of this option because the bridges would be built on small anchor teeth. Initially, Connor planned to keep wearing his wire retainer, but then last summer, his retainer finally broke. Connor was tired of wearing a retainer so Dr. Elizabeth Eggert suggested Connor consider having bonded composite “bridges” completed. She talked with Connor about how conservative the preparation could be for the anchor teeth and was confident that the results could look good. Another advantage of the composite bonded “bridges” was that if Connor does decide to move forward with orthodontics and implants later in life, his neighboring teeth will still be in good shape.

What did he want?

After discussing the pros and cons with Dr. Elizabeth, Connor and his parents decided on composite bonded “bridges,” which is a type of fixed dental prosthesis for the replacement of a single missing tooth. The design of the bonded bridge consists of an artificial tooth made out of plastic filling material with a wing-like extension, which is bonded to the neighboring tooth or teeth. The tooth which supports the resin bonded bridge is called an abutment. The tooth which is replaced by the bonded bridge is called a pontic. Usually only minimal preparation is done to the abutment tooth and this treatment is considered minimally invasive.

What was involved?

After deciding to move forward with the composite bonded “bridge,” Dr. Elizabeth took impressions to get a model of Connor’s teeth so she could design the new restorations. Connor also wanted his teeth to be whiter so he did over-the-counter Crest White Strips to bleach his teeth. Connor then had an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth and in one day, he left the office with two new teeth as part of his composite bonded “bridges.”

What does he think?

Once the treatment was completed Connor was very happy with the esthetics and his bite. When we asked him some questions following treatment he said that he did not think much about having the procedure done, but just that it may take a while. He was surprised at how quick and easy the procedure appointment was and notes “I actually fell asleep for awhile I think!” Connor says “I love them! They’re super easy and they feel pretty normal already! It’s been great.” He would tell anyone that needed the same procedure to definitely do it! “It’s totally worth it.”

Thank you, Connor, for trusting us with your smile, we look forward to working with you for many years to come.

Thankful For My New Partials – Bob’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Bob initially was a long-time patient of Dr. Furey before Dr. Elizabeth came on the scene. Bob has autism and requires special care at his visits as he is often non-verbal, making it tricky to communicate or understand his needs. Bob comes to appointments with his mom, Marlene, who does what she can to help communicate Bob’s needs.

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders. Autistic disorders include Asperger Syndrome, Rett Syndrome, and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. The number of children with autism is on the rise according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Patients with ASD often have difficulties with social interactions, communication, and repetitive behavior. They process sensation atypically and may be overly sensitive to bright lights, loud sounds, touch, strong odors, or taste which can make dental visits a challenge for all involved.

Bob also has a severe gag reflex, which makes it difficult for restorations to be done on his teeth without being sedated for the procedures.

What did Bob and his mom want?

Initially, Bob wanted his severe toothache addressed. It had been awhile since Bob had seen a dentist before Dr. Elizabeth saw him at Eggert Family Dentistry. Bob wore a flipper partial for his upper teeth that was breaking down. Bob also had evidence of the start of periodontal disease, as well as some teeth with severe cavities that needed attention. Bob was having intense pain with these teeth and it seemed like extractions were Bob’s best option, partially because he was unable to take good care of teeth so far back in his mouth due to his autistic disease, as well as his gag reflex.

Bob and his mom wanted Bob to be healthy and set up well since he was planning to move to a group home in the near future, as his mom was finding it more difficult to fully care for him as she gets older too.

It was decided to try to save as many teeth as possible for Bob, without extensive dental heroics and to make him partial dentures that would help him chew and “feel more complete.”

What is involved?

After extensive gathering of information and research, Dr. Elizabeth had a plan in place for Bob that was approved by Bob and his mom. Bob had his teeth extracted with an oral surgeon and after some healing time, they began working through the partials. Since Bob had such a severe gag reflex, Dr. Elizabeth was able to use the intraoral scanner to send images of Bob’s teeth to the dental lab to design his partial dentures.

Dr. Elizabeth worked with the lab and over the course of a few weeks, Bob was able to see his partials come to life. First, there was a try-in of the plastic frame for the partial denture. Then, Bob got to see what the teeth would look like before they were set in hard plastic. The dental lab sends denture teeth set-up in wax so changes can easily be made if desired. Bob and his mom liked the process and couldn’t wait to get Bob’s final partial dentures!

Unlike conventional metal based partial dentures which rely on metal clasps to provide stability on the teeth, flexible dentures are thinner and more lightweight and rest comfortably in the mouth secured with clasps that blend in better with natural teeth. Flexible partial dentures are designed to be comfortable and functional and should not restrict the ability to eat or speak. Bob’s partial dentures were made from a special, very strong plastic, called acetal. The dental lab suggested that acetal be used for Bob since it can be made very thin (to help with his gag reflex) and it is very strong (to help with Bob’s habit of grinding his teeth).

What do they think?

Bob was excited to get his partials and Marlene reports that he eats better with his new partials and he even is able to communicate verbally with her. When Dr. Elizabeth saw Bob for his follow-up denture adjustment appointments, he actually answered direct questions. He was so excited about his partials that he was more open to communicating with others! Bob hates to be without his partials and keeps a close eye on them during his teeth cleanings when he has to take them out. It was exciting to see such a transformation for him. Bob also started a job in a school cafeteria, we like to think at least partially because of increased confidence! Congratulations on your new partials Bob. It was our pleasure to be able to work closely with you on this project.

The Link Between Sleep Deprivation and Alzheimer’s Disease: How Eggert Family Dentistry Can Help

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining your overall health, and recent research highlights its profound impact on brain function. Studies show that a lack of sleep may increase your risk for Alzheimer’s disease, a devastating condition that affects memory and cognitive abilities. If you struggle with sleep, it’s essential to understand the connection and explore solutions to protect your brain health. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert can help you address sleep issues with custom dental appliances tailored to your needs.

What Do We Know?

Scientific evidence demonstrates a strong link between poor sleep and the development of Alzheimer’s disease. One pivotal study published in Nature Neuroscience revealed that sleep deprivation leads to the buildup of beta-amyloid, a toxic protein associated with Alzheimer’s. Normally, your brain clears beta-amyloid during deep sleep, but insufficient rest disrupts this process, allowing the protein to accumulate. Over time, this buildup can contribute to the progression of the disease.

Another study from Science Translational Medicine reinforced these findings, showing that just one night of sleep deprivation can significantly increase beta-amyloid levels. Chronic sleep issues, such as sleep apnea, can exacerbate the problem by repeatedly interrupting your sleep cycles, further impairing your brain’s ability to cleanse itself. These findings highlight the importance of addressing sleep problems early to minimize long-term risks to your brain health.

Solutions with your Eggert Family Dentistry Team

At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert specialize in helping patients overcome sleep issues that may be contributing to poor rest. They can fabricate custom oral appliances designed to improve your sleep quality, particularly if you suffer from conditions like obstructive sleep apnea. These appliances gently reposition your jaw to keep your airway open during sleep, reducing interruptions and allowing your body to enter the restorative stages of rest.

Using the Seattle Protocol, the Eggert Family Dentistry team carefully determines the best type of sleep appliance for you. This method involves a series of diagnostic steps to ensure the appliance is optimized for your specific needs. By combining cutting-edge technology with personalized care, they provide effective solutions to help you sleep better and protect your brain health.

If you’re struggling with poor sleep or have concerns about its impact on your overall health, Eggert Family Dentistry can help. By addressing sleep problems with tailored dental solutions, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert not only improve your sleep but also support your long-term cognitive well-being. Don’t let poor sleep jeopardize your future—schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward better rest and a healthier brain. Call us today 651-482-8412 or visit our website.

The Link Between Periodontal Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease: What You Need to Know

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Keeping our teeth clean for the sake of a healthy mouth is nothing new. Over 5000 years ago, the ancient Egyptians created chew sticks—bamboo sticks with frayed ends—to get food out of their teeth and freshen their breath. They also developed toothpaste made from a combination of powdered ashes. However, in the past 30 years, we’ve learned that the benefits of proper oral hygiene extend far beyond a healthy mouth. In this post, we’ll focus on the link between periodontal disease and Alzheimer’s disease and steps each of us can take to invest in our oral health.

The Ripple Effect of Gingivitis

Every disease process begins somewhere, and periodontal disease is no exception. Periodontal disease starts when harmful bacteria in your mouth form sticky plaque. If thorough brushing and flossing aren’t part of your routine, this plaque can hang out on your teeth and harden into tartar. Tartar is virtually impossible to remove on your own and requires dental skill and instruments to do. If tartar is allowed to persist, it irritates and inflames the surrounding gum tissue, leading to a condition known as gingivitis.

Unfortunately, the cascade doesn’t always stop there. Left untreated, gingivitis can quickly escalate. Gum tissue and bone can start wearing down, and because the bone levels deteriorate, teeth can become loose or even fall out. At the same time, the bacteria that is inflaming the gums can leach into the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body.

This bacteria can cause plaque to build up in a person’s arteries, resulting in atherosclerosis, and putting a person at a higher risk for a heart attack. But it doesn’t stop there. That same bacteria can travel to the brain and destroy nerve cells, leading to memory loss, or Alzheimer’s.

Phew!

Learn more in this summary of a study from the journal of Science Advances.

Fortunately, there are some effective steps each one of us can take to ward off the disease process before it begins!

Prioritizing Oral Health Helps Protect Your Brain

Brush and floss regularly.

Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert can’t stress enough the importance of routine brushing and flossing. When you clean the surface of your teeth and in between your teeth, you remove residual food particles before they have a chance to break down and cause harmful bacteria to grow. In other words, regular brushing and flossing helps ward off gingivitis and periodontal disease. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert also recommend using fluoridated toothpaste and swishing with a fluoridated mouthwash to keep your enamel strong.

Eat healthy.

The foods we eat have a surprising impact on our oral health and overall wellness. A diet low in sugars and starches minimizes the production of enamel-eating acid that leads to gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. We’ve established that these destructive bacteria that causes gingivitis and periodontitis can wreak havoc not only on your mouth but also on your heart and brain.

On the flip side, foods rich in healthy fats and omega fatty acids, such as nuts, olive oil, and fish, increase the production of acetylcholine, a chemical that helps your brain create new memories. Avocados, also high in healthy fats, can prevent high blood pressure and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. And remember to incorporate proteins and foods rich in Vitamin D for optimal brain wellness.

Live healthy.

Tobacco, alcohol, and vaping can interrupt your mouth’s healthy microbiome and contribute to the disease process.

Tobacco raises the risk of gum disease and slows down the gums’ healing process.

Alcohol is high in sugar and can kick off the gum disease cascade.

Vaping contains acidic compounds that can erode tooth enamel, damage the gums, and increase the risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease.

These three habits cause dehydration, reducing saliva production. And because the primary function of saliva is to rinse harmful bacteria from the mouth, these bacteria may persist and grow, leading to eventual periodontal disease. Additionally, in excess, these habits can increase a person’s risk of oral cancer, which can metastasize throughout the body.

Conversely, limiting or avoiding these substances will promote a healthy mouth, brain, and body for life!

Control chronic conditions.

Some chronic conditions, such as diabetes, can increase a person’s risk of gum disease. Carefully managing diabetes and other chronic conditions with diet and medication is a first line of defense against periodontal disease. In addition, be mindful of any routine medications that cause a dry mouth, and take necessary steps to increase saliva production to ward off destructive bacteria.

Schedule regular recare visits.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we know that one of the most important investments you can make toward oral health and wellness is routine wellness visits with us at Eggert Family Dentistry. At each recare visit, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert performs several crucial assessments, interprets x-rays, and prescribes a fluoride treatment for your teeth. They proactively care for your teeth, search for early signs of periodontal disease, and take steps to correct or counteract any issues they detect.

Other Factors That Affect Oral Health

Lastly, be aware that other factors, including hormonal changes and genetics, can impact your oral health and ultimately, your brain health. Talk with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert if you have any oral health concerns!

The link between periodontal disease and Alzheimer’s disease is undeniable, proving that Alzheimer’s disease can start in the mouth. Follow these tips to maintain oral wellness! If you need to set up your next recare visit, reach out to us at 651.482.8412!

November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month: Why It Matters

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Every November, Alzheimer’s Awareness Month brings attention to a disease that affects millions worldwide. Designated in 1983 by President Ronald Reagan, this month highlights the need for greater understanding, support, and research surrounding Alzheimer’s disease. The initiative aims to educate the public about the disease, support caregivers, and encourage participation in advocacy and fundraising efforts. For those whose lives have been touched by Alzheimer’s, November is a time to unite in the fight against this devastating condition.

Alzheimer’s Disease, Explained

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that destroys memory and cognitive functions. It was first identified in 1906 by Dr. Alois Alzheimer, who described the case of a woman with severe memory loss and unusual changes in her brain. Today, the disease is recognized as the most common form of dementia, accounting for up to 70% of dementia cases worldwide. Over 55 million people globally live with dementia, and the Alzheimer’s Association projects this number will exceed 130 million by 2050 if no effective treatments are developed.

Statistics reveal the widespread impact of Alzheimer’s across age groups. In the United States, approximately 6.7 million people aged 65 and older live with the disease, representing nearly 1 in 9 seniors. Early-onset Alzheimer’s, which affects individuals under 65, accounts for about 5% of cases and highlights that this disease is not limited to the elderly. Globally, the highest prevalence rates are seen in aging populations in Europe and North America, but cases are rising rapidly in countries with developing healthcare systems. These numbers underscore the urgent need for awareness and research.

How We Create Awareness

Throughout November, various events and initiatives aim to shine a light on Alzheimer’s disease. Walks to End Alzheimer’s, organized by the Alzheimer’s Association, occur in cities nationwide to raise funds and foster community support. Many landmarks and buildings are lit in purple, the official color of Alzheimer’s awareness, to honor those affected. Educational webinars, caregiving workshops, and memory screenings are also widely available during the month to help individuals and families navigate this complex condition.

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is a vital opportunity to rally support for those living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. By participating in events, learning more about the disease, and advocating for increased funding and research, you can play a role in combating this global challenge. Together, we can work toward a future where Alzheimer’s is preventable, treatable, and ultimately, curable.

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, we are happy to take this opportunity to learn more and share about this debilitating disease. As care-givers that build life-long relationships with our patients, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert have had to treat the dental needs of many patients and family members affected by Alzheimer’s. Our hearts go out to those touched by this disease. We hope we all do what we can to find a solution. Give someone you know with Alzheimer’s a hug today!

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!