TMJ, Splint, and Sleep Apnea Therapy Archives - Eggert Family Dentistry Blog

Waking Up Tired? Your Dentists at Eggert Family Dentistry Might Hold the Key to Better Sleep

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

The quality of our sleep can make or break the day ahead. There’s nothing like a clear head and boatloads of motivation after a solid night’s sleep! Consistent, quality sleep can set us up for success in all aspects of life. Conversely, over time, poor sleep can take a toll—affecting our focus, job performance, relationships, and overall well-being. Surprising to many, dental interventions like the Seattle Protocol and oral sleep appliances are often the key to better sleep. Read on to learn more!

Understanding Sleep-Disordered Breathing

Just because your head is on your pillow for 7-9 hours at night, you’re not guaranteed solid sleep. If you’re waking up feeling tired and you’re fighting daytime fatigue, you may be struggling with sleep-disordered breathing.

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) encompasses a range of conditions that interfere with normal airflow during sleep. The most commonly understood form of SDB—sleep apnea—occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked, often due to the jaw’s position or relaxed throat muscles and tissues. Symptoms can include loud snoring, gasping for air, morning headaches, dry mouth, and daytime fatigue, among others. There are many other patterns of sleep disordered breathing that aren’t as extreme as sleep apnea, but can still cause you to get poor quality sleep. Working to address any SDB is beneficial to your overall health.

The Role of Dentists in Treating Sleep Apnea

You might not expect your dentist to be the one to help with sleep issues, but they’re actually in a unique position to identify and treat sleep disordered breathing, including sleep apnea. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we specialize in evaluating the structure and function of your jaw and airway, as well as the status of your teeth, to determine whether they may be contributing to sleep dysfunction.

The Seattle Protocol and Its Benefits

So where does it all begin? The Seattle Protocol is a six-step process that helps patients with symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing and other conditions to determine whether a compromised airway is causing their ailments.

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

The Six-Step Seattle Protocol Process:

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

Once they gather information from the Seattle Protocol—and if they determine that sleep-disordered breathing is a factor for you—Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert can create a custom night guard or splint or sleep appliance that opens up your airway and curbs any inflammation or damage to your teeth, jaws, or soft tissue. These custom-fit devices gently reposition the jaw to keep the airway open while you sleep—reducing snoring and improving oxygen flow. These appliances are non-invasive, convenient, and generally more comfortable than a CPAP machine.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, our ultimate goal is to help you reclaim the rest your body and brain need to thrive.

Are You Struggling With Sleep?

Be mindful of your symptoms. Take note of how often you feel fatigued, whether you snore, or if you wake up frequently during the night. It’s also helpful to ask your partner about any sleep habits they’ve noticed. Partners often detect signs of sleep apnea or other disturbances that may go unnoticed by the person experiencing them. And, partners aren’t always willing to share what they know about your sleep habits unless you ask, since they don’t want to hurt your feelings!

Next, schedule a consultation with Eggert Family Dentistry. We’ll assess your symptoms and explore whether sleep-disordered breathing could be the underlying issue. If it is, we’ll work with you to create a customized treatment plan. Professional solutions, such as a tooth-based appliance or other interventions, can even contribute to better overall health.

You don’t have to suffer from inferior sleep. Give us a call at 651.482.8412 to set up your appointment with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert and see if dentistry holds the key to unlocking the key to better sleep for you!

“Can I Get a New Night Guard?” – Sleep Questions Addressed with the Seattle Protocol and a New Splint – Ann’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Ann returned to Eggert Family Dentistry a few years ago after concerns arose at her previous dental office, where she often felt she was being “up-sold” on dental recommendations. In addition, her husband and mom have been patients at Eggert Family Dentistry for years and have been very happy with their experiences. Ann made it very clear from the start that her main concern is overall tooth health, and while she wants a beautiful smile, she is happy with her smile, so she didn’t feel the need to discuss cosmetic options. Ann mentioned at her new patient appointment that she had undergone a sleep study and she was told she didn’t have sleep apnea, but she has been told she snores so she wonders if she is as rested as she could be. She was also told by her previous dentist that she had “TMJ” or Temporal Mandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) and wanted Dr. Elizabeth’s opinion on that. Ann really didn’t have many symptoms of TMD and she wanted to better understand what the previous dentist was seeing.

What was revealed during the records process?

Dr. Elizabeth invited Ann to come back for The Records Process in order to help Ann understand her current dental conditions, including the status of her potential TMD. In the Records Process, we used models, photos, and x-rays, as well as results from an extensive analysis of how Ann’s teeth function. The details of The Records Process revealed that Ann had some evidence of an unstable bite and while it wasn’t causing Ann day-to-day problems, it has the potential to cause faster breakdown of her jaw joints, muscles, and teeth. In addition, with her snoring, Ann had the option of working through the Seattle Protocol, an innovative approach to treating sleep disordered breathing with dental resources, like dental splints. Even though Ann did have evidence of TMD (without current symptoms), she wasn’t interested in pursuing treatment for that, which may have included orthodontics, but she was interested in helping her snoring, so she elected to undergo the Seattle Protocol.

What was involved?

The Seattle Protocol helps us determine the jaw position that best alleviates the patient’s likely airway compromise. The protocol moves the patient through a series of diagnostic steps and treatments using various trial splints (using the myTap system) to find the most effective solution specific to each individual patient. The goal is to move through incremental vertical and horizontal increases to the jaw position. Each step builds upon the last, but patients don’t necessarily need to complete the entire process as the purpose of the protocol is to determine the phase that provides the best relief of the patient’s symptoms.

Seattle Protocol Six Steps

1. Nasal breathing therapy

2. Lower jaw orthotic trial splint

3. Lower jaw anterior repositioning trial splint

4. Dual arch trial splint

5. Dual arch repositioning trial splint

6. Dual arch repositioning trial splint in more forward position.

For Ann, like all patients starting with the Seattle Protocol, we started with Nose Clearing and Mouth Taping, with the goal of rerouting Ann’s breathing through her nose. Ann ended up moving through the first 4 stages and found relief from her snoring and reported sleeping better with stage 3.

What does Ann think?

We asked Ann what she thought about the process of undergoing the Seattle Protocol. She told us she found it very easy and the time went pretty quickly. “Both Dr. Eggert and Tracy helped me move fast through the treatment and my appointments always went smoothly and started on time.” She also found it to be really helpful and that the mouth taping was very beneficial, she even recommended it to some of her friends that she felt it would help.

Ann liked the different options of oral appliances and finding the right one for her after going through all the Seattle Protocol. We asked Ann what she would tell a friend or family member if they were having similar symptoms or issues and she said that she would highly recommend the treatment and working with Eggert Family Dentistry. “You really have to sleep on it! Literally, you have to sleep with the different splints as it is not possible to know how they will benefit you until you try them out. If one version does not work for you, you will know it.”

Congratulations Ann! Thank you for letting us be part of your journey. We’re happy to have found a conservative treatment option that addresses your goals and current conditions. We look forward to working with you and your family for many more years to come!

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.

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.

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

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

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

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

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

What was involved?

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

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

What does Mary Kay think?

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

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

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

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

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

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

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

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

Understanding TMD: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

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

What is TMD?

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

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

What Causes TMD?

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

These include:

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

Additional causes or activities that can aggravate TMD include:

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

Common Symptoms of TMD

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

Common symptoms include:

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

Diagnosing TMD

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

Treatment Options for TMD

TMD treatment runs the gamut:

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

Prevention for TMD

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

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

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

Which Splint is Right for You?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

When it comes to dental health, particularly addressing issues related to your bite, splints or also known as “dental appliances” can be a game-changer. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert offer a variety of splints designed to cater to your specific needs, ensuring you receive the best care possible. Understanding the different types of splints available and their benefits can help you make an informed decision about your dental health.

Splints Available at Eggert Family Dentistry, Explained!

One of the splints offered is the anterior deprogrammer. This appliance is designed to temporarily disengage the bite, allowing the muscles of the jaw to relax. It’s particularly useful for diagnosing bite problems and can provide relief from muscle pain caused by bruxism (teeth grinding). If you experience frequent headaches or jaw pain, an anterior deprogrammer might be recommended to help alleviate these symptoms and to determine if your bite is a contributing factor.

For those dealing with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), TMD splints or orthotics are an excellent option. These splints are custom-made to fit your mouth and are designed to reposition the jaw to a more comfortable position, reducing stress on the TMJ. Patients with TMD often suffer from jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, and difficulty in opening their mouths fully. A TMD splint can help reduce these symptoms by providing a stable and balanced bite.

Another specialized appliance is the Tanner appliance, which is used for treating bruxism and in designing a new bite. The Tanner appliance is a full lower arch anatomical splint. It is the best adjusted version of a TMD splint and it often is worn only at night. This appliance helps us to determine where the muscles sit in a comfortable position and analyze the tooth position there. Often after wearing a Tanner appliance, you will have a great idea of how the positioning of your teeth affects your overall health and well-being and it helps us plan for a new bite so you can enjoy the improved effects day in and day out!

For those who need a more flexible solution, softguards offer a comfortable and adaptable option. Made from a softer material, these guards are ideal for light bruxism. They are especially useful for patients who may not tolerate harder materials well or those who need a lot more support for their joints over their muscles. If you experience occasional teeth grinding or clenching, a softguard may provide the necessary protection without discomfort.

Essix retainers are another versatile option, primarily used to maintain tooth alignment after orthodontic treatment. These clear, thin, removable retainers are comfortable and virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for post-orthodontic care. If you’ve recently had braces or other orthodontic work done, an Essix retainer will help keep your teeth in their new positions. For some people, it can help protect teeth from the effects of bruxism, but typically, for moderate to heavy bruxism, the retainers will wear out quickly.

For more comprehensive protection, custom fit occlusal guards (also known as night guards) are highly effective. These guards are tailored to fit your mouth precisely, providing robust protection against moderate and severe bruxism. They are made from durable materials and are designed to withstand significant grinding and clenching forces. The downside to a standard occlusal guard is that if the bruxism is caused by an airway compromise, by wearing the occlusal guard, the airway collapse may be more significant while wearing the appliance because it helps to keep your muscles relaxed. Therefore, an accurate diagnosis of why you are bruxing is important.

The Seattle Protocol is an innovative approach to diagnosing and treating TMD and related issues where airway compromise is suspected. This protocol involves a series of diagnostic steps and treatments, including the use of various trial splints to find the most effective solution for each patient. By systematically evaluating different treatment options, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert can pinpoint the best appliance to best improve your airway, which should improve any signs or symptoms you are having from sleep apnea. If you find yourself waking up tired or experiencing frequent sleep interruptions, the Seattle Protocol is a suitable option to explore.

Finally, for patients suffering from diagnosed mild or moderate sleep apnea, a mandibular advancement appliance can be a lifesaver. This device works by holding the lower jaw forward, keeping the airway open during sleep. If you suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, this appliance can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall health by reducing snoring and apneic events and associated risks. You will find your sleep quality will improve significantly because your body can get the oxygen it needs!

How You Can Get Help

At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert utilize a comprehensive evaluation process known as the Records Process to determine the best splint for your needs. This process involves a thorough examination of your bite, jaw function, and overall oral health. By analyzing this data, they can recommend the most appropriate splint to address your specific issues. Whether you need relief from TMD, protection from bruxism, or help with sleep apnea, Eggert Family Dentistry will guide you through each step, ensuring you receive the best possible care tailored to your needs.

Choosing the right splint can make a significant difference in your dental health and overall well-being. At Eggert Family Dentistry, you can trust that you will receive personalized, expert care designed to meet your unique needs. Call us today! 651-482-8412!

The Impact of Teeth Grinding on Your Oral Health: Risks and Consequences

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Clenching or grinding your teeth — also known as bruxism — is common, but that doesn’t mean it’s something you should ignore.

While some consequences of bruxism are simply annoying, others are more serious and can negatively affect your oral health. Let’s take a few minutes to dive into the impact of teeth grinding, signs to watch for, serious consequences that can occur, and how to treat and prevent it.

Understanding Teeth Grinding and Its Causes

Teeth grinding can affect children and adults alike. Small children are notorious for grinding when they’re cutting baby or permanent teeth, but they generally grow out of it. Not everyone grows out of bruxism, however, and adults often report their sleeping partners grinding so loudly it actually wakes them up out of a sound sleep!

While you might think of bruxism occurring only when you’re asleep (sleep bruxism or SB), it can occur just as frequently during your awake hours (awake bruxism or AB). In either case, the person generally doesn’t realize they’re clenching or grinding their teeth and often attributes their symptoms to the wrong causes.

Teeth grinding — and the uncomfortable side effects of it — generally has one of several root causes: improper alignment of teeth; stress, anxiety, anger; caffeine consumption, alcohol consumption; tobacco use; prescription medications; or airway issues.

Stress

Stress affects the human body in a variety of ways. It causes surges of adrenaline and cortisol, as well as increased heart rate and breathing.

When this happens, our bodies shift from “rest and digest” mode into “fight or flight” mode, and our muscles tense up and prepare for action. This tension is often noticeable in our neck, shoulders, and hips. Our jaw muscles often tense up too, and we grind unconsciously to cope with the pressure.

Caffeine

We love coffee and other foods and beverages with caffeine because they give us energy. But they’re also a muscle stimulant and can increase muscle activity in the jaw, resulting in grinding.

Tobacco

Just like caffeine, tobacco is a stimulant and increases muscle activity in the jaw.

Alcohol

Not only does alcohol consumption affect our sleep patterns, but it actually alters the neurotransmitters in our brain. Consequently, jaw muscles can overcompensate and become tense, resulting in grinding.

Also, if not properly managed, alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration, which makes our mouth dry and can lead to teeth grinding.

Airway Issues

Sleep disordered breathing can result in teeth grinding. If you’re having a difficult time breathing at night, you may unconsciously move your teeth around or grind them to open up your airway. This also occurs during the day, unconsciously. For example, if your body feels that your airway is more “open” with your jaw in a position that puts more stress on your teeth, but less stress on your airway, your body will choose to keep your airway open over keeping pressures off your teeth.

Prescription Medications

Some prescription medications, including antidepressants and psychiatric meds, can alter neurotransmitters in the brain and cause jaw tension and teeth grinding.

Tip: If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth as a result of a prescription medicine, talk to your prescribing doctor to see if your dosage can safely be adjusted or if there is another medication choice you can try.

Impact of Teeth Grinding: Signs and Symptoms

Do you think you or your loved one might be dealing with bruxism? Here are some signs to watch for:

Tooth damage: chipped, worn down, fractured, or loose teeth
Tooth sensitivity
Headaches or earaches
A jaw that clicks or doesn’t open and close smoothly
A sore jaw
Irritated cheek tissue
Tongue indentations
Gum recession
Gingivitis
Damaged dental work

Tip: If you catch yourself clenching or grinding, place the tip of your tongue on the roof of your mouth behind your top teeth. This will automatically unclench your teeth and relax your jaw. This isn’t a permanent fix but can help provide relief from jaw tension in the moment.

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Changes

You and your loved ones don’t need to live with the uncomfortable and potentially damaging effects of teeth grinding.

Successful treatment of bruxism addresses the root cause: If the root cause is physiological, dentistry, orthodontia, or airway treatment could help; If the root cause is stress, managing it is imperative. In other words, there are several effective treatment options! Let’s take a closer look:

Splint/Occlusal Appliance

In order to protect your teeth from chipping, cracking, or wearing down during sleep bruxism, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert can create a custom in-mouth appliance, or splint. This splint will fit your teeth perfectly, protect their surfaces, and absorb bite force. There are different ways to design splints based on your individual needs. Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth are happy to help you determine which might be best!

Dental Restorations

When teeth grinding has been undetected or left untreated for a long time, teeth can become permanently damaged.

If needed, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert can create crowns or veneers for your teeth to restore their strength and integrity and improve the appearance of your worn-down teeth. Properly shaping the teeth can also help relieve extra pressure on your jaw.

Orthodontia

If Dr. Elizabeth or Dr. Jeff determines that the root cause of bruxism is due to severely misaligned teeth or jaw bones, they will refer you to an orthodontist for a consultation or sometimes we can even do the orthodontics in our office with Inivisalign. Braces and other orthodontic interventions can widen your palate, realign teeth, and reposition the jaw, correcting your bite. They can even help with breathing issues!

Treatment for Airway Issues

If Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert suspects that sleep disordered breathing is a factor for you, they will schedule an evaluation and discuss possible treatment options, including the reputable Seattle Protocol.

Botox

If the grinding is persistent and the effects are severe, Botox injections can provide temporary relief. Botox is a neurotoxin that can be injected and has been found to temporarily relax muscles and reduce nerve signals in the jaw that lend themselves to teeth grinding.

De-Stressing Techniques:

If you’re under significant stress and it’s the likely cause of your teeth grinding condition, pursuing de-stressing techniques, such as therapy, breathwork, stretching, and journaling, can help reduce stress or help you manage it better. These interventions can also help alleviate overall body tension and stress-induced pain.

If you’re dealing with symptoms of teeth grinding, we’d encourage you to schedule a bruxism evaluation appointment with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert. Give our office a call at 651.482.8412 to schedule your appointment.

When the Puzzle Pieces Aren’t Fitting Together, How to Improve Crowded Teeth – Lisa’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Dr. Elizabeth Eggert has been working with Lisa since 2016. Initially, Lisa was having issues due to a cracked tooth on her lower right side. After a crown was done for that tooth, it historically and occasionally flares up for Lisa. Dr. Elizabeth noticed that due to Lisa’s crowded teeth, the teeth in her lower jaw sit at an angulation toward her tongue, instead of straight up and down. This puts extra forces on teeth and often will contribute to cracking. Lisa also admitted that she finds herself clenching her teeth together, most of the day and probably at night. This also produces more force than the teeth are prepared to handle. Therefore, the fact that Lisa’s teeth are often sensitive comes as no surprise.

Initially, Lisa thought she would try a standard occlusal guard (or night guard) to help alleviate the pressure she experiences from clenching her teeth. Lisa wore the appliance regularly and she believed it helped, but she still had sensitivity from time to time and when a second tooth started having symptoms of cracked tooth syndrome on her lower right, she knew it was time to take action. She decided she wanted a more permanent solution to her bruxism and that is when the discussion of Invisalign began.

What did Lisa want?

Lisa wanted to straighten her teeth, avoid getting more cracked teeth, and help stop her grinding at night. Lisa didn’t want to have the wires and brackets of traditional braces, so she was excited about the option of Invisalign. When Dr. Elizabeth was planning Lisa’s case, she helped Lisa notice that the small lateral incisors on her upper jaw played a role in why the bottom teeth were crowded. Because of the smaller lateral incisors, the lower teeth had to be more “squished in” and crowded. Dr. Elizabeth talked with Lisa about how after Invisalign treatment, there would be spaces left between her teeth on the upper arch. Luckily, Dr. Elizabeth had a solution, which involved widening those teeth with veneers. Lisa was excited about the prospect of straight teeth and understood why the veneer restorations were necessary so she decided to go forward with treatment.

What was involved?

Lisa underwent the Invisalign records process with Dr. Elizabeth so a treatment simulation could be done. Her treatment was expected to take 10-12 months with the goals of unraveling the crowding, creating space for upper veneers, and providing support for her joints and muscles.

To help with her bruxism, Dr. Elizabeth added bite ramps to Lisa’s Invisalign aligners. These are a way to help keep her muscle more calm because they don’t allow for easy clenching. Despite the bite ramps, Lisa’s strong muscles did continue to clench somewhat, although things were improving for her joints and muscles throughout treatment. Her continuous clenching did slow down her progress and after her initial set of 20 aligners, Lisa’s bite still wasn’t quite perfect. Therefore, Dr. Elizabeth recommended a “refinement” treatment with Invisalign and Lisa’s treatment continued on for another 6 months. During this time, Dr. Elizabeth also gave Lisa exercises to help stretch her jaw muscles so that her clenching wouldn’t continue to impede the progress for her Invisalign treatment.

After 18 months of Invisalign, it was time to plan for Lisa’s veneer restorations. Some simple bite equilibration was also needed for Lisa to finalize her bite position and give her solid stops for her back teeth. Lisa wanted whiter teeth so she decided to try the Opalescence Go! professional white strip whitening system to brighten her smile. Lisa chose to only restore her 2 lateral incisors. Dr. Elizabeth reviewed the pros and cons of completing veneers for her upper 4 front teeth, including better size proportioning, and continued color matching, but Lisa felt that 2 veneers was the right choice for her. So, a laboratory wax-up was done as a blue print for the final restorations and the 2 porcelain veneers were completed for her upper lateral incisors. Lisa was very excited about finishing her treatment after spending the time to move her teeth into a better position!

What does Lisa think of her results?

When we asked Lisa what she thought about undergoing the procedures before she had things done, she said “I kind of knew what Invisalign did – it was going to straighten my teeth and work out problems like cracks in my teeth and help me stop grinding at night.” Lisa didn’t understand that the spacing issues she had were causing her crowding until we started analyzing things.

The process took longer than she was initially expecting, but she understood that her clenching was slowing things down so she worked hard to do her exercises. In the end, she is happy with how everything looks and the outcome. “It looks good!” She really is hoping to slow down any new cracks from forming on her teeth. In talking with anyone considering similar treatment, Lisa would tell them to talk to Dr. Elizabeth because this too may be an option for you and it is definitely a better alternative to brackets!