Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, Author at Eggert Family Dentistry Blog

Piercing the Truth: What Your Mouth and Facial Jewelry Could Mean for Your Smile

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

When you’re considering a mouth or facial piercing, you’re likely thinking about self-expression and style—but it’s just as important to understand how that decision can affect your oral health. While piercings can be a meaningful way to express your individuality, research shows they can also introduce risks that may impact your teeth, gums, and it can even affect the way your dental team at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN is able to evaluate your oral health. Knowing the facts helps you make the best decision for your long-term smile.

One of the most immediate ways oral piercings affect your dental care is through radiographs (X-rays). Because most oral jewelry is made of metal, it can create significant “artifacts” or distortions on dental images. These streaks and shadows can obscure important structures, making it harder for us to detect cavities, bone loss, or other conditions accurately. This is why we ask you to remove your jewelry before imaging to ensure your radiographs are diagnostic and complete—because clear imaging is essential for catching problems early and protecting your health. We find some piercings can be very difficult to remove.

Beyond imaging challenges, the physical presence of lip, tongue, or intraoral piercings can directly affect your teeth and gums. Scientific studies consistently show an association between oral piercings and gingival recession, tooth fractures, and even tooth mobility. In fact, research has found gingival recession in up to 39% or more of piercing sites, along with complications like chipped teeth and soft tissue damage. You may not even notice these changes at first, which makes regular dental visits even more important for early detection and prevention.

The reason for these issues often comes down to repeated trauma. When jewelry rubs against your gums or teeth—or if you find yourself playing with it subconsciously—it can gradually wear away gum tissue and weaken the enamel. Over time, this can lead to exposed roots, increased sensitivity, and a higher risk of periodontal problems. Studies also show that lip piercings, in particular, are strongly associated with localized gum recession. But, even tongue piercings will contribute to chipped teeth and recession because the tongue is nearly always moving.

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, you’re supported by a team that understands your desire to express who you are—whether that includes piercings or not. Our goal is never to judge, but to make sure you have clear, science-based information before making decisions that affect your health. If you’re thinking about getting a piercing—or if you already have one—we can help you understand the risks, monitor any changes, and guide you toward protecting your smile for years to come. Keep in mind as well that your safety during dental procedures is a top priority for us and with some piercings, the chance of pulling or tugging on the jewelry could cause some serious damage.

Ultimately, you deserve to feel confident in both your self-expression and your oral health. Before moving forward with a mouth or facial piercing, we recommend that you take the time to weigh the potential risks and benefits. And if you already have one, staying proactive with your dental care is key. If it’s been a while since your last visit, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment with Eggert Family Dentistry—because your smile deserves expert care, no matter how you choose to express yourself. Call or text us today at 651.482.8412!

Celebrating the Women Who Shape Your Smile: A Women’s History Month Tribute

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

When you think about your dental care, you might picture your next cleaning or checkup—but behind every healthy smile is a long history of pioneering women who helped shape the profession you rely on today. During Women’s History Month, you have a special opportunity to reflect on the trailblazing dentists, hygienists, and dental assistants who broke barriers and elevated the standard of care you experience every time you sit in the dental chair.

You can trace the roots of modern dentistry to influential women like Lucy Hobbs Taylor, the first woman to earn a dental degree in the United States. She paved the way for women to enter the profession at a time when it was overwhelmingly male-dominated. You also benefit from the work of Irene Newman, one of the first dental hygienists, who helped establish preventive dental care as a cornerstone of oral health. These women didn’t just participate in dentistry—they transformed it, helping shift the focus toward education, prevention, and patient-centered care that you still experience today.

As you continue to explore the history of dentistry, you’ll find that dental assistants have also played a vital role in advancing patient care. Early pioneers in dental assisting helped create more efficient, comfortable, and supportive clinical environments, allowing dentists to focus more fully on your needs. Their contributions helped shape the team-based approach you benefit from today, where every member of the dental team plays an important role in your overall experience.

Right here in North Oaks, MN, you are supported by a truly exceptional, women-led team at Eggert Family Dentistry, even though we have Dr. Jeff Eggert, every other member of our magnificent team is a woman! From the highly skilled Dr. Elizabeth Eggert to our compassionate hygienists – Lea, Anna, and Lisa, as well as our dedicated dental assistants – Tracy and Heather, you are surrounded by professionals who embody the same spirit of care, innovation, and leadership as the women who came before them. Of course, we can’t forget our amazing administrative team as well – Kristina, Bekah, and Rebecca, without them the clinical skills would fall to the wayside and we might just break apart!

When you visit, you can feel confident knowing that each team member is committed to helping you achieve your best oral health in a welcoming and supportive environment. Our passion, expertise, and teamwork make every visit a positive one—and that’s something worth celebrating.

So as you honor Women’s History Month, why not celebrate by prioritizing your own dental health? You deserve to be cared for by a team that reflects the very best of dentistry’s past and present. Go ahead and call Eggert Family Dentistry to schedule your next appointment—because honestly, who wouldn’t want to be around such an amazing group of women (plus Dr. Jeff) while taking care of their smile? Call or text us today – 651-482-8412!

Why Professional Recare Appointments Do What Your Toothbrush Can’t

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Give Your Smile the Spring Cleaning It Deserves

Spring has a way of making us notice what we’ve been ignoring — the dust in the corners, the smudges on the windows, the cluttered drawer we meant to organize months ago. So we roll up our sleeves and give everything a proper refresh.

Your smile needs that same kind of care.

Brushing and flossing are your daily tidy-up routine, but even the most consistent at-home care can’t replace a professional cleaning and maintenance appointment. Over time, plaque collects in hard-to-reach places and hardens into tartar; once it does, your toothbrush simply can’t remove it.

A professional recare appointment targets that pesky buildup that hides beneath the gumline, in between teeth, in deep grooves, and around existing dental work. It’s like pulling the furniture away from the walls — Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff and their amazing hygiene team can reach the places your daily routine just can’t.

Skipping that professional cleaning? That’s when dustbunnies and tartar start collecting in all the places you can’t see.

Periodontal Disease: The Real Risk Lurking Beneath the Surface

When you skip spring cleaning at home, dust and grime don’t appear overnight. They build up gradually. You may not notice the impact until allergies flare or something starts to break down.

Periodontal (gum) disease works much the same way.

It often begins sneakily: slight inflammation. Occasional bleeding. Maybe a bit of tenderness. Like seasonal allergies, it’s noticeable, but easy to brush off. It doesn’t seem quite urgent enough to rearrange the furniture or call your dentists … even though that’s exactly when you should.

Meanwhile, beneath the surface, real damage is unfolding. Harmful bacteria accumulate below the gumline, breaking down the bone and connective tissue that support your teeth.

Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to:

Gum recession
Bone loss
Loose teeth
Tooth loss

And the effects don’t stop there. Chronic gum inflammation has been linked to heart disease, complications from diabetes, and other systemic health concerns throughout the body.

Professional recare visits are one of the most important tools Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff have for catching periodontal disease early. Skipping these visits gives the condition time to progress — often without obvious symptoms.

👉If you’d like a deeper look at why consistent exams matter, read Dr. Elizabeth Eggert’s post, Worried About Periodontal Disease? Don’t Skip Your Regular Dental Check-ups!

So, if you haven’t dusted behind the couch — or scheduled your recare appointment — consider this your reminder. Spring cleaning prevents small messes from turning into costly repairs.

So does preventive dental care.

When a Deeper Clean Is Needed: Scaling & Root Planing

When a spill on the carpet sits for too long, a quick pass with the vacuum just won’t cut it anymore. You need a more targeted treatment to fully restore the surface.

The same is true for periodontal concerns. When bacteria and hardened deposits collect beneath the gums, a standard recare cleaning can’t reach deeply enough to resolve the problem.

That’s when Drs. Elizabeth and Jeff Eggert may recommend scaling and root planing, also known as a deep cleaning — a focused therapeutic cleaning designed to remove buildup below the gumline and gently smooth the root surfaces of your teeth. By eliminating the bacteria and creating a cleaner surface, the gum tissue can begin to heal and reattach properly.

When identified early, periodontal disease is highly manageable. That’s exactly why routine recare appointments matter so much. Even if more targeted treatment — like scaling and root planing — becomes necessary, those regular visits allow Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff to catch concerns early, when they’re easier to treat and far less likely to require extensive intervention.

If you’d like a clearer understanding of what scaling and root planing involves and why it’s sometimes necessary, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert explains it in more detail in her post, Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing: What Does It Mean?

“But If I Brush Really Well … Do I Still Need Professional Recare?”

Daily brushing and flossing do absolutely matter. They remove plaque, freshen your breath, and maintain your smile between visits. In fact, avoiding common mistakes (like the ones Dr. Elizabeth Eggert outlines in her post, 8 Bad Brushing Habits) can dramatically improve your at-home results.

That being said, it’s important to understand that even the most consistent brushing routine has limits.

Imagine trying to deep clean your entire home with only paper towels. You could wipe down the counters every day, sure … but you wouldn’t be able to shampoo the carpets, reseal the grout, or inspect the wiring behind the walls.

That’s the difference between daily at-home care and professional recare.

Your toothbrush:

Removes soft plaque
Helps prevent surface stains
Maintains your basic oral health between visits

Your professional recare appointment:

Removes hardened tartar that cannot be brushed away
Measures gum pocket depths to detect early signs of periodontal disease
Cleans above and below the gumline with precision instruments
Evaluates existing fillings and restorations
Screens for cavities and oral cancer

In other words, it’s not “just another cleaning.” It’s a comprehensive evaluation and preventive service designed to protect your long-term health.

👉If you’re curious about the details, here’s exactly what to expect at your next recare appointment: What to Expect at Your Next Recare Visit: It’s More Than Just a Cleaning

Together, your toothbrush and your dental team form the ultimate cleaning partnership — keeping your smile healthy not just this season, but year-round.

P.S.: To answer the age-old question … yes, your dentist can tell how consistent your brushing and flossing have been.

While some patients wonder if they can skip professional cleanings as long as their at-home routine is solid, others take the opposite approach — assuming that regular dental visits make daily brushing and flossing optional.

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering how dentists always seem to know, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert has the answer in her post, Let’s Get Real: Can My Dentist Actually Tell if I’m Brushing and Flossing?

You need consistent at-home care and regular professional recare appointments. One cannot replace the other.

How Often Should You Schedule a “Smile Reset”?

For many patients, professional recare appointments are recommended every six months.

But just like some homes need more frequent upkeep, some smiles need more frequent care.

Patients with …

A history of periodontal disease
Diabetes
Dry mouth
A higher risk for buildup

… may benefit from visits every three months or less.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we personalize your recare schedule based on your specific needs. There’s no one-size-fits-all cleaning plan, because no two patients are alike.

Schedule Your Next Professional Recare Appointment

Spring inspires us to reset our homes — to clear out what’s been collecting and create a cleaner, healthier space. Why not give your smile the same attention?

Clear out the buildup.
Catch small issues early.
Protect your overall health.
Start fresh.

Whether it’s been 6 months or a few years since you’ve been to the dentist, you can schedule your next professional recare visit now. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth or Dr. Jeff and the amazing hygiene team, call our office at 651-482-8412.

Give your smile the deep clean it deserves — because even the best toothbrush can’t move the couch!

Rebuilding My Smile from the Ground Up – Lynn’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Lynn started as a patient of the practice with Dr. Jensen in 2000 and transitioned her dental care to Dr. Elizabeth in 2005, when she took over his practice. During this time, she had five teeth restored with porcelain crowns and continued to require additional restorations over the following years. In 2018, due to the ongoing restorative needs and the complexity of her case, Dr. Elizabeth recommended that Lynn undergo the “Records Process” to allow for a comprehensive evaluation and to develop a detailed treatment plan for her care. Lynn also was having many changes and challenges with her medical history, including serious balance, movement, and mobility movement changes.

Dr. Elizabeth guided Lynn through the Records Process to evaluate how her bite was currently functioning. This process included diagnostic models, clinical photographs, and radiographs of Lynn’s teeth, along with a comprehensive muscle and joint evaluation. These records allowed Dr. Elizabeth to assess and present the current condition of Lynn’s teeth, gums, jaw joints, and the function of her jaw muscles.

Based on the findings, it was recommended that Lynn begin splint therapy using an anterior deprogrammer. This step was necessary to help relax the jaw muscles and determine a stable, repeatable bite position. Part of the reason Lynn kept cracking and chipping her teeth was because she didn’t have a stable bite position. Restoring Lynn’s teeth without first establishing a consistent bite could have compromised the longevity of any work to be done. Once a stable bite position was identified through the deprogramming process, adjustments to her bite were planned with restorations to achieve the best long-term stability.

What was recommended?

As mentioned, Lynn started her splint therapy with an anterior deprogrammer, which should have helped her muscles relax into a more repeatable bite. However, one of the most important things to understand about splint therapy is that it does NOT always improve the condition (at least right away), but no matter if the condition stays the same, gets better, or gets worse, we learn something from this diagnostic process.

Lynn had a fairly difficult time adjusting to the anterior deprogrammer and found that her sleep was affected. She also had many other red flags for poor sleep quality, including the medical changes she was experiencing. Lynn elected to have a formal sleep test done and she was diagnosed with moderate sleep apnea, as well as having many arousal events each night. Lynn and Dr. Elizabeth changed Lynn’s splint therapy to the sleep-based Seattle Protocol and they learned that Lynn’s sleep, pain, and bite improved when her lower jaw was in a forward position. This helped Lynn and Dr. Elizabeth learn that Lynn’s teeth and tongue craved more room to function better. Lynn elected to undergo Invisalign treatment with Dr. Elizabeth. The goals for her treatment were to expand the room in her oral cavity and then restore her teeth to match this improved location for her bite.

Invisalign is a clear aligner orthodontic system and is used to gradually move teeth into their ideal positions. Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, removable aligners that apply gentle, controlled forces to shift the teeth over time. In Lynn’s case, Invisalign was used to properly align her teeth and create the correct spacing and positioning needed before completing her final restorative work. Establishing proper tooth alignment helped ensure a more stable bite and allowed for more predictable, long-lasting restorative results.

What did she want?

Lynn wanted her teeth to look better, but she also wanted things to feel better. She wanted improved sleep, she wanted her teeth to last. She didn’t want to have to always be thinking about them – whether they would break or crack on her. Lynn expressed that she did not want “glowing white” teeth, but she did want her smile to appear noticeably whiter and more natural. Her goal was to achieve teeth that looked healthy, felt both functional, and beautiful. She wanted her new teeth done as quickly as possible, but she understood the benefits of the orthodontic treatment, which did take more time to undergo.

What was involved?

In just over a year, Lynn completed her Invisalign treatment. She was even able to continue her care during her winters in sunny Florida! Invisalign was very successful in expanding for more room for Lynn, but we knew that without restorations throughout her mouth, it would still be difficult to manage her bite long-term. Invisalign helped with improving her muscle stability, but her bite still was not always able to find a repeatable position due to the shapes of her original teeth.

A laboratory wax-up was done to create a blueprint of Lynn’s future restorations. Then, over the course of two days, nearly all her teeth were carefully prepared in preparation for the placement of porcelain crowns and veneers. These restorations would improve Lynn’s bite, function, and overall smile.

What does Lynn think?

Lynn told us that before undergoing this process with Dr. Elizabeth she was unsure what she even wanted or could ask for. “It was all unknowns.” Lynn was excited to have everything done though, especially because of the prospect of how it could improve her breathing and her health and because her husband had undergone some cosmetic tooth work himself.

After all that was involved, Lynn told us that she is very pleased with everything, even though she ran into medical complications and COVID along the way, in the end she notes, “It was effortless. It was surprisingly easy.”

She told us that if she was talking to someone thinking about undergoing a full mouth dental reconstruction, she would tell them “It’s worth it! It’s a long process, but it’s worth it and you’ll feel so much better in the end!”

Congratulations, Lynn! Thank you for putting your trust in us. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we truly believe in helping our patients achieve a lifetime of smiles and yours is a shining example. We were delighted to guide you through this journey and look forward to caring for you and your family for many years to come.

Breathe, Chew, Smile: How the Myobrace® System Can Transform Your Child’s Oral Development

Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Are you concerned about your child’s crooked teeth, mouth breathing, or strange chewing habits? If so, you’re not alone — and there’s a gentle, non-invasive way to help guide your child toward healthier oral and facial development. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert are using the Myobrace® System to help young patients improve the way their jaws and faces develop — often long before braces would typically be considered or tolerated by the kids.

So what exactly is the Myobrace System, and why is it different from traditional orthodontic approaches? Unlike braces or aligners that focus solely on straightening teeth, Myobrace addresses the root causes of misalignment — such as improper tongue posture, mouth breathing, and incorrect swallowing patterns. The system uses a series of gentle, removable oral appliances combined with simple daily exercises to train muscles and encourage the jaw and airway to develop in a healthy way. It’s designed around the idea that creating the right functional habits early on can naturally guide teeth into better positions, making orthodontic treatment more efficient and stable.

You might be wondering if Myobrace is right for your child. Generally, it’s ideal for children — particularly between ages 3 and 15 — whose facial structures and oral habits are still developing. If your child breathes through their mouth instead of their nose, has crowded or crooked teeth, exhibits an incorrect swallow, or struggles with speech issues related to tongue posture, Myobrace could offer significant benefits. By addressing these functional issues early, you can help promote proper jaw growth, reduce the need for complicated orthodontics down the line, and support overall health like better breathing and improved sleep.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert take a personalized, whole-child approach. They don’t just look at your child’s smile — they evaluate how the jaw, airway, tongue, and facial muscles are working together. During your visit, they’ll assess whether Myobrace appliances and targeted exercises are a good match for your family’s needs and will explain how each phase of treatment works. Their experience with this modality allows them to guide you through the journey with clarity and compassion, helping you see progress not just in the mirror — but in how your child functions day to day.

If you’re looking for a proactive, growth-focused option to help your child develop an ideal oral and facial structure — and a confident smile to match — Myobrace might be just what you’re looking for. Reach out to Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, Minnesota to learn more about how this innovative system could make a difference in your child’s health and future smile! Call or text us today! 651.482.8412. We look forward to meeting you and your family soon!

How Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert Care for Growing Smiles

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

One of the reasons families trust Eggert Family Dentistry is that care goes beyond “just checking teeth.” Drs. Elizabeth and Jeff Eggert take a personalized, child-focused approach that supports long-term health and development from the very beginning.

Setting the Foundation Early

Children’s visits are designed to be supportive, educational, and calm. The goal is to help kids develop healthy habits that actually last. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert welcome young patients as early as age one — the ideal age to begin monitoring growth and setting the foundation for lifelong oral health. (Of course, with emergency concerns before age one for your child, we encourage parents to reach out as well.)

A Bigger-Picture Approach to Children’s Oral Development

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks MN, the focus is not only on preventing cavities. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert also evaluate the bigger picture of your child’s development, including:

Bite patterns
Oral habits (thumb-sucking, pacifier use)
Facial development
Signs of mouth breathing, snoring, or airway concerns

This proactive approach helps families understand what’s happening now and what to watch for as their child grows. It can also help identify concerns early, before they become bigger issues. Left unnoticed, the issues may go on to affect your child’s sleep, breathing, and long-term development. Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff strongly believe in early interventions if appropriate because why allow children to develop on a path that could lead to long-term skill deficets? We all want our children to be the best they can be!

Some benefits of early intervention programs can lead to diminution of allergies, colds, sore throats, and ear infections. We see improvement in the nasal airway and nasal breathing over mouth breathing, which all lead to positive psychological benefits and healthier children.

Partnering with Parents Every Step of the Way

Families are always part of the conversation.

Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert work closely with parents to create supportive plans without adding stress. Clear guidance and shared decision-making will ensure you feel informed, involved, and confident every step of the way.

Learn more about their family-centered approach here:
Why Your Children Deserve Expert Dental Care at Eggert Family Dentistry

A Healthier Smile Starts Early

If you’re reading this and thinking, “I’m still not sure if this is a big deal …” we don’t blame you. These topics can feel confusing, especially when pediatricians don’t usually spend any time doing these evaluations OR even recommend families talk with dentists about them. Not to mention how the internet has a way of making everything sound urgent. The simple truth is, early awareness is powerful and the right guidance can make all the difference. Having an evaluation by age one for your child is KEY.

Thumb-sucking, pacifiers, and snoring are often normal in very early childhood, but when these habits last too long, they can have serious consequences to your child’s long-term oral health.

Children’s Dental Health Month is the perfect time to check in, ask questions, and feel confident you’re supporting your child’s healthiest development. If you’d like expert support, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert at Eggert Family Dentistry are here to help you navigate every stage of children’s oral development with reassurance and personalized care.

Call or text us at 651.482.8412 to schedule your next appointment. We can’t wait to see you soon!

What Thumb-Sucking, Pacifiers, and Snoring Mean for Children’s Oral Development

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Thumb-sucking. Pacifiers. Snoring.

If you’re a parent, you’ve probably dealt with at least one of the “big three” (if not all of them).

These habits may be incredibly common in early childhood. However, are they really a harmless phase or are they a cause for concern — how long is it really before these habits start affecting your child’s growth, sleep, and long-term oral health?

During Children’s Dental Health Month, Drs. Elizabeth and Jeff Eggert want parents to feel empowered when it comes to supporting children’s oral development. That means understanding what’s typical, what’s not, and which signs may be worth a closer look.

Let’s break it down together.

The Big Picture

When most people think of children’s dental care, they think of candy-induced cavities and teething pains. But the truth is, children’s oral development is about much more than teeth.

Your child’s mouth, jaw, tongue, airway, and facial muscles all work together to support things like:

Healthy breathing through the NOSE
Clear speech development
Proper swallowing patterns
Balanced facial and oral growth
Comfortable and restful sleep
Strong, aligned teeth and jaws

These early years are a major growth window. That’s why childhood habits like thumb-sucking, pacifier use, or chronic mouth breathing influence not just your child’s smile, but their overall development too.

Pacifiers and Thumb-Sucking: When to Start Paying Attention

If your baby uses a pacifier or sucks their thumb, take a deep breath. Many people find comfort in being able to soothe their children.

These habits can be soothing and developmentally normal in the earliest of childhood development. And, many babies naturally outgrow the need to use these interventions without any stress.

That said, the timing does matter. At some point, thumb-sucking and pacifiers do become cause for concern. Generally, concerns increase when:

The habit continues as teeth begin coming in
The habit becomes very frequent or intense

Some children may keep sucking habits longer than expected, especially during stressful transitions (new sibling, starting preschool, changes in routine). If that’s the case in your home, you’re not alone. It may simply be a sign that your child needs a little extra support and a gentle, consistent plan.

Drs. Elizabeth and Jeff Eggert often remind families it’s not about shame or pressure — it’s about guiding development at the right time and starting as early as possible to help the child break the habit.

The Long-Term Impact of Prolonged Sucking Habits

Thumb-sucking and pacifier use don’t automatically cause problems, but when they last too long or happen too often, they influence how the mouth grows.

Some possible changes include:

Open bite (front teeth don’t touch when biting down)
Protruding front teeth
Narrower palate (roof of the mouth)
Crowded teeth
Changes in jaw growth patterns

These changes can affect more than appearance. They may impact chewing, speech development, cognitive development, and how easily teeth stay clean.

The earlier these issues are noticed, the easier it can be to support healthier growth patterns with simple, proactive guidance.

If you want to learn more about how thumb-sucking and pacifier use affects dental and facial development in children, Eggert Family Dentistry has a great resource here: How Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Use Affects Dental and Facial Development in Children

Snoring, Mouth Breathing, and Children’s Oral Development

This is a big one, and it’s often overlooked.

Many parents assume snoring is “just cute,” especially if their child seems otherwise healthy or if their pediatrician doesn’t say anything. But in pediatric dentistry, snoring is a HUGE red flag into letting us know that developmental issues are occurring.

Why Snoring Deserves a Closer Look

Oxygen is essential for every system in the body. Your child’s brain, immune system, growth, and mood all depend on steady, high-quality breathing — especially at night when their body and brain are doing so much of their development and repair.

Snoring is a sign that your child’s airflow is partially blocked. That can lead to lighter, more disrupted sleep, even if your child stays in bed all night. Over time, poor sleep quality can show up as daytime symptoms that don’t seem connected at first, such as fatigue, irritability, trouble focusing, or hyperactive behavior.

Mouth Breathing Changes How the Mouth Grows

When kids cannot breathe comfortably through their nose, their bodies will adapt to get enough air. This manifests as mouth breathing.

Mouth breathing matters because it affects more than airflow. It changes the way the tongue, lips, and jaw rest throughout the day and night. The tongue is designed to rest gently against the roof of the mouth, where it supports healthy palate development and guides both how the jaws grow as well as how the nasal airway grows. When the tongue rests low instead, the palate develops higher and narrower and the jaws grow with less space for teeth and proper alignment.

Over time, mouth breathing contributes to:

A narrow palate and crowded teeth
Bite issues (such as open bites or crossbites)
A longer, more vertical facial growth pattern
Dry mouth (which increases plaque buildup and cavity risk)
Gum irritation and inflammation
More plaque buildup due to reduced saliva protection

Understanding Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders

Orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) involve how the tongue, lips, and facial muscles function at rest and during swallowing and speech. These patterns often develop alongside chronic mouth breathing and can impact everything from speech clarity to bite development.

Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, Minnesota explains this in more detail here: Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder and Its Effect on Breathing

Airway Issues Affect More Than Sleep

When breathing is disrupted at night, parents may notice signs like:

Daytime fatigue (even after a full night in bed)
Difficulty focusing or brain fog
Behavioral changes or irritability, including signs and symptoms of ADHD
Bedwetting
Teeth grinding

This is why Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert encourage parents to take snoring seriously. It influences children’s oral development, sleep quality, and overall health as they grow.

You can also explore the connection between snoring, mouth breathing, and oral health here: The Impact of Healthy Childhood Habits on Airway and Oral Health

Simple Steps Parents Can Take at Home

You don’t need to panic, or do everything at once. Small steps make a big difference, especially when they’re consistent.

Helping Kids Move Away From Thumb-Sucking and Pacifiers

If your child is still thumb-sucking or relying heavily on a pacifier past the age of 6 months to one year, a gentle, supportive approach is often the most effective. Kids tend to use these habits for comfort; with the right plan, they can transition away from them without stress.

The first step is to simply spot the pattern. Pay attention to when your child typically starts reaching for that thumb or pacifier. It’s often during bedtime, screen time, car rides, or stressful moments.

Once you know what triggers it, you can respond more intentionally instead of feeling like you’re constantly correcting it. Try supportive strategies like:

Praise progress, not perfection
Offer comfort replacements (stuffed animal, blanket, sensory toy)
Use a simple reward chart for “thumb-free” time
Create a bedtime routine that reduces anxiety

Avoid punishment or shaming. It should feel like you and your child versus the thumb or pacifier — not you versus your child. Many kids don’t even realize they’re doing it, much less that it’s a problem.To your child, it feels good, they don’t understand the implications of altered growth.

Encouraging Nasal Breathing and Better Sleep

Breathing through the nose and keeping the tongue in a healthy resting position play a bigger role in children’s oral development than most parents realize.

If you want to encourage better habits at home, start with small, realistic changes:

Have your child use saline nasal spray daily to keep the nasal airway clear and open
Address allergies with your pediatrician if needed
Use gentle “lips together and breathe through your nose” reminders
Encourage side sleeping so your child’s tongue doesn’t block their airway
Use a humidifier to reduce nighttime congestion
If other options aren’t working, use Myobrace Therapy with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert [link to myobrace blog and this month’s patient of the month blog]

These small habits can support better sleep, healthier facial growth, and a more balanced bite.

When It’s Time to Ask a Professional

Some habits simply fade with time. Others can quietly shape how your child’s mouth, jaw, and airway develop. Well before these become long-lasting habits with emerging side effects, it is worth scheduling an evaluation with Eggert Family Dentistry so you can catch concerns early and get guidance that’s specific to your child.

Consider scheduling an evaluation if you notice:

Frequent snoring
Mouth breathing during the day or night
A pacifier or thumb-sucking habit that isn’t improving with time
Bite changes (open bite, teeth shifting forward)
Speech concerns
Tongue thrusting

Even if everything turns out to be normal, having Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert take a look can give you clarity and peace of mind. Sometimes the best next step is simply getting answers and reassurance

Call or text us at 651.482.8412 to schedule your next appointment. We can’t wait to see you soon!

My Healthy Smile with Myobrace – Nathaniel’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month! This month, we’re proud to highlight our Patient of the Month – Nathaniel! Nathaniel is now 8 years old and has been part of our dental family for several years. During his initial visit, at age 5, mom wanted to know if anything could be done about the crowding Nathaniel had with his lower permanent teeth, which were starting to erupt. Dr. Jeff Eggert thought it would be a good idea to see what Nathaniel looked like at his next 6-month check-up appointment to see how he would grow. Unfortunately, Nathaniel had minimal growth in this period and there would be no room for his next set of permanent lower teeth to come in. Early detection and intervention is key to working with patients like Nathaniel so Dr. Jeff sent Nathaniel to Dr. Brian DeVoe of DeVoe Orthodontics for an evaluation.

What was recommended?

Dr. DeVoe wasn’t sure that he could successfully do anything orthodontically for Nathaniel yet since his permanent molars weren’t erupted. He talked with the family about the option to extract some primary (baby) teeth so the permanent teeth would have space to erupt.

Nathaniel’s mom is very progressive and she wondered if that was the only option. She really wanted to help with Nathaniel’s growth and development. Dr. Jeff then asked Dr. Elizabeth Eggert for help as she has had success bringing children like Nathaniel through Myobrace Therapy.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we pride ourselves on bringing “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles” to all our patients. This means that we spend extra time with our smallest patients looking for any clues that growth and development is not occurring ideally at every one of their visits.

For Nathaniel, he had some indications of an underdeveloped airway, which will often lead to a small oral space (small mouth) and crowding. Nathaniel specifically was showing under developed upper and lower jaws, tilted head and shoulders, long/thick eyelashes, a deep bite, excessive gingival display, mouth breathing, a tongue tie, straining with swallowing, snoring, tossing and turning during sleep, sweating at night, waking up a funny position, chronic allergies, chronic runny nose, and the tendency to interrupt. There are so many “red-flags” for interruptions to growth and so many of them aren’t familiar to the general population. We work hard to educate all of the parents in our practice so they can help make the best decisions for their kids.

What was involved?

Myobrace Therapy is great for early intervention and for some people, it can even help decrease time in orthodontics or eliminate the need for orthodontics all together! Myobrace is built on the idea that muscle function is critical in jaw development. It is designed to support proper jaw development, encourage healthy oral habits, create space for developing teeth, and promote better airway support and function. There are many appliances available to train the muscles and therefore develop the oral cavity. The treatment requires commitment at home, follow-up visits with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, and takes time during growth.

For Nathaniel, his jaw was so small that we started with the “Infant Trainer” appliance. The appliances are prefabricated, soft, flexible, and with special design features for training the tongue and lip for ideal positioning. Myobrace can also be used to help children correct habits like mouth breathing, thumb sucking, and tongue thrusting. Myobrace works the patient through a series of similar, yet more rigid appliances that encourage growth and development.

Nathiel wore his Myobrace every night and a few hours each day. He worked on tongue, cheek, and lip muscle exercises each night with his father. He came to visit with Dr. Elizabeth about every 3-4 months and through the course of 12 months, changing to the next appliance when appropriate, we saw significant growth in Nathaniel’s mouth – he even had enough room for his teeth to grow in – without extractions!

What does he think?

Nathaniel found it very easy to wear the appliances and he was very committed and compliant. This makes for the most successful Myobrace outcome!

What does his mom think?

Nathaniel’s mother admitted to us that she was a little skeptical before starting Myobrace Therapy and she wasn’t sure it would work. “I didn’t have much knowledge about the theory behind it, so there was definitely some uncertainty.” She wanted Nathaniel to avoid extractions at his young age and she wanted to keep his visits to the dentist easy and successful so that motivated her to commit to the treatment.

After completing the process, she says she would absolutely recommend it. “The whole experience was a learning process for us – understanding what was going on and how it works. I now realize that my uncertainty was just a lack of knowledge. I understand that it works with the muscles, and we had to do our part with the exercises.”

When we asked what she would say to friends or family with similar conditions she said, “I would say try it and do your best to follow the instructions. It works with natural growth, which is a big plus. It’s especially good for young children.”

Interceptive treatment like Myobrace Therapy can make a tremendous difference in a child’s life. Nathaniel did an outstanding job and had an amazing outcome! Thank you for putting your trust in us. We look forward to working with Nathaniel and his family for many years to come!

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we’re passionate about helping our patients achieve healthy, confident smiles. We would love the opportunity to answer your questions and discuss whether Myobrace Therapy is right for anyone in your life.

Why Cannabis Use Can Make Dental Numbing More Difficult—and How We Help You Stay Comfortable

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

No matter what side of the argument you might be on – you can’t ignore all the references and now availability of marijuana products ever since cannabis was legalized in Minnesota in 2023. Unfortunately, we’re noticing a change in how we have to do dentistry because of these new laws. When you come in for dental treatment, one of the most important factors for a smooth and comfortable experience is effective local anesthesia. What many people don’t realize is that using marijuana, THC, cannabis, or related products can directly affect how well dental numbing works. If you use these substances regularly or close to your appointment time, you may find that getting fully numb is more difficult, which can make dental procedures longer, more uncomfortable, and more challenging to complete.

Cannabis interacts with your nervous system and pain receptors in ways that can interfere with local anesthetics. THC can alter how your body processes medications and may increase your tolerance to numbing agents. This means you may need more anesthetic than usual, or the numbness may wear off faster than expected. For you, this can translate into increased sensitivity during treatment, even when everything is being done correctly. It also makes your dental procedure less safe and makes it much harder for Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert to do their best job for you.

Another concern is that cannabis use can increase anxiety, heart rate, and blood pressure in some people—especially in a dental setting where stress may already be present. If you are feeling tense or anxious, your body may respond by making it harder for anesthesia to work effectively. This combination of altered pain response and heightened anxiety can make dental care more difficult than it needs to be.

The good news is that there are many safe and effective ways to reduce dental anxiety without interfering with anesthesia. You can focus on slow, controlled breathing, listen to music or podcasts during your appointment, and communicate openly about what makes you nervous. Scheduling morning appointments, limiting caffeine beforehand, and practicing relaxation techniques (without cannabis) can also make a big difference in how calm and comfortable you feel.

It’s especially important that you are honest with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert about any marijuana or THC use, even if it feels uncomfortable to mention. This information helps your dental team make the safest decisions for your care, adjust treatment plans if needed, and avoid unnecessary discomfort. Our number one goal is your safety and to ensure your treatment goes as smoothly as possible. Withholding important information about your use of recreational substances seriously impacts results.

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, you are in expert hands. Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert have extensive experience helping patients feel comfortable, informed, and safe during dental care. They understand how medications, substances, and anxiety can affect your treatment, and they take the time to personalize your care. By working together and communicating openly, you can achieve excellent dental outcomes—comfortably and confidently. Please call us today with any questions about this topic or to schedule your next appointment with Eggert Family Dentistry – 651-482-8412!

When Memory Fades, Advocacy Matters: Why a Trusted Companion Makes Dental Care Safer and Smoother

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

When you or a loved one begins showing signs of cognitive decline, even routine dental appointments can become more complicated. Clear communication, informed consent, and follow-through on care instructions all depend on accurate recall and good decision-making. Having a consistent advocate—such as a trusted family member or friend—attend dental appointments with you can make a meaningful difference in both safety and quality of care.

If your recall ability is questionable, attending appointments alone can be challenging for everyone involved. You may have difficulty remembering medical history details, understanding treatment options, or accurately reporting symptoms. Important conversations about risks, benefits, timelines, and home care can be misunderstood or forgotten. This can slow down progress, lead to repeated explanations, or even result in delays in necessary treatment.

A consistent advocate helps bridge these gaps. When someone familiar with your health history and preferences is present, your dental team at Eggert Family Dentistry can communicate more effectively and confidently. Your advocate can help ask questions, clarify instructions, and ensure that recommendations are understood and followed. This teamwork allows your care to move forward more efficiently and reduces unnecessary stress for you.

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, Minnesota, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert take patient privacy very seriously. They work diligently to protect your personal health information and follow all privacy regulations. At the same time, they recognize that there are situations where collaborating with a trusted advocate is not only appropriate, but essential to providing safe, ethical, and compassionate care.

When it’s clear that you may struggle to make complex healthcare decisions alone, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert thoughtfully involve family members or friends—with your permission or when legally appropriate—to support your best interests. This balanced approach respects your dignity while ensuring that important decisions are made with clarity and care. Their goal is always to protect you, not just your smile.

Ultimately, sending a patient with cognitive challenges to a dental appointment alone can create confusion and slow down care that could otherwise move forward smoothly. By bringing a consistent advocate with you, you help your dental team provide better, safer, and more personalized treatment. At Eggert Family Dentistry, you can trust that your well-being, privacy, and long-term health are always at the center of every decision. Call us today for your next appointment – 651-482-8412.