TMD Archives - Eggert Family Dentistry Blog

“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.

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.

Smile Through Stress: Managing Mental Well-being for Better Oral Health

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Did you know that stress can affect your oral health?

Stress is, unfortunately, part of all of our lives. And while most people are aware of the effect stress can have on their physical health, often the link between stress and oral health isn’t as clear.

And yet stress can have a significant impact on your oral health. The effects of chronic stress can show up in your mouth, teeth, gums, and jaws as gum disease, teeth grinding, jaw clenching, and more. Understanding how stress can affect your oral health is essential to maintaining a healthy smile.

Here, we’ll explore the effects of stress on oral health along with some practical strategies to manage stress and support your smile.

Stress and Oral Health: Unraveling the Connection

Learning to recognize the conditions caused or worsened by stress is vital to timely intervention. Chronic stress can lead to a number of oral health problems, including:

Bruxism: The Grind Behind Stress

Stress can cause tension in your jaw, which can lead to bruxism. Bruxism is a condition where you unconsciously grind or clench your teeth. Many people with this problem are unaware of it as it happens most often while they are sleeping, however, it can even happen during the day without conscious awareness of it.

Because the force exerted while clenching or grinding is often much more than that exerted while chewing, it can result in significantly worn-down teeth, jaw pain, headaches, damage to dental restorations, and in many cases, even fractures.

If you think you may be grinding or clenching your teeth, talk with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert in North Oaks, MN about obtaining a custom-fitted night guard to help protect your teeth from stress-related wear and tear.

Gum Disease: Stressing Out Your Gums

Stress can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections and your gums more susceptible to inflammation and gum disease. Gum inflammation, bleeding, tenderness, and periodontal disease are more likely when you are under chronic stress.

If you notice your gums are red or swollen or that they bleed when you brush or floss, make an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert right away as bleeding in the gums is a sure sign of unwanted inflammation

Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ): Stressing Over Your Jaw

TMD (or more commonly called “TMJ”) is a disorder affecting the jaw joint, causing symptoms like jaw pain, stiffness, clicking or popping, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth. Chronic stress can cause you to clench your teeth and jaw, which can stress the temporomandibular joints, leading to TMD. Lack of sleep due to stress can further exacerbate this issue.

If you notice any signs of TMD, speak with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert at Eggert Family Dentistry. Similar to bruxism, we may recommend an appliance to ease your jaw discomfort and protect your joints from wear.

Canker Sores: Stress Taking Its Toll Inside Your Mouth

Stress can also bring on canker sores inside your mouth, which can cause pain and discomfort. Canker sores are small round ulcers in your mouth, often found on the inside of your cheeks and lips or on your tongue and gums.

While these sores typically go away on their own, it’s helpful to understand what causes them and how to mitigate your discomfort while they heal. While the specific cause of canker sores is still unknown, there does seem to be a strong link between canker sores and stress.

If you experience canker sores, you can help manage your discomfort by:

Swishing a warm salt water solution around your mouth multiple times per day (8 oz warm water and 1 tsp salt)
Drinking cold liquids through a straw
Eating soft foods
Avoiding sugary, salty, spicy, acidic, or very hot foods
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush when brushing your teeth

When you are under significant stress, it can be tempting to neglect your regular oral hygiene routine. But maintaining routine brushing, flossing, and dental visits with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert is vital to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.

Managing Stress to Preserve Oral Health

In addition to maintaining a consistent oral health regimen, implementing some or all of the following healthy habits can help improve your body’s resilience to stress and support your oral health.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water. Maintaining adequate hydration helps support saliva production and overall oral health.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Include a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains in your daily diet. Limit sugary treats, caffeine, and alcohol — too much of these can exacerbate stress and negatively impact your oral health.

Get Regular Exercise

When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, a natural stress reliever. Being active also helps promote better sleep, which aids in stress management and benefits your physical and dental health.

Prioritize Quality Sleep

Stick to a regular sleeping schedule to ensure adequate sleep. Establish a bedtime routine that helps you relax and ease tension in your jaw. This could include a jaw massage, gentle stretching, deep breathing techniques, or aromatherapy.

Implement Stress-Relief Techniques

Stress-relief techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness meditation, a warm bath, and yoga can help you unwind, relax your jaw, and lower overall stress levels. Experiment with a variety of stress-relief techniques to find the ones that work best for you.

Ask for Help

If stress feels overwhelming or becomes chronic, consider seeking professional support from a therapist or counselor who specializes in stress and anxiety management. Having someone to talk through stressful feelings with can be immensely beneficial to your mental and physical health (including your oral health!).

Stress and oral health are inextricably linked. Taking the time and energy to invest in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being leads to improved health and happiness, and a reduced likelihood of developing stress-related oral health issues.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we know your mental health affects your oral health and we believe they are equally important components of overall wellness. If you’re concerned your oral health is being compromised by stress or anxiety, we recommend making an appointment with your primary physician as well as with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert at 651.482.8412. We’re always here to help!

How Occlusal Equilibration Helps Jaw Pain and TMD

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, as many as 12 million U.S. adults suffer from pain in the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ), a disorder known as TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder).

If you suffer from TMJ dysfunction, you know how painful it can be. When your jaw is misaligned, it can cause agonizing joint problems as well as increased wear on your teeth.

Jaw pain caused by TMD is often solved using devices like splints and mouthguards, or even surgery. But if you have jaw pain related to TMD, there’s another solution that could help: occlusal equilibration.

Read on to learn more about this procedure and how occlusal equilibration helps jaw pain and misalignment.

Is Your Jaw Pain Caused by Jaw Misalignment?

Jaw pain can be caused by a number of factors. Some of the most common causes include: decayed or abscessed teeth, gum infection, migraines, sinus or ear infections, heart disease, bruxism (teeth grinding), and TMD.

The treatment for your jaw pain will depend on what is causing it. If your jaw pain is caused by jaw misalignment or TMD, occlusal equilibration could help relieve it.

But how do you know if your TMJ is causing your TMD and jaw pain?

The simple answer, of course, is to visit Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert to determine the cause of your jaw pain. But if you are experiencing the following symptoms, TMD may be at the root of your pain:

Discomfort when chewing
Teeth grinding
Locking or clicking jaw
Chipped or broken teeth
Receding gums
Loose teeth
Stiffness in the jaw or neck

What Is Occlusal Equilibration?

Occlusal equilibration is the process of subtly and precisely reshaping the biting surfaces of your teeth to correct the alignment of your bite and positioning of your jaws.

A well-aligned jaw allows your upper and lower teeth to fit together properly when you bite down. But when your jaw is misaligned, your bite becomes uneven, putting stress on individual teeth as well as the jaw joint and especially the surrounding muscles. When the misalignment is corrected with occlusal equilibration, those muscles relax, reducing or eliminating pain and sensitivity.

This procedure is generally pain-free, and doesn’t require anesthesia. It’s quick and affordable, and the adjustments are generally so slight that they don’t change the appearance of your teeth.

How Occlusal Equilibration Helps Jaw Pain and TMJ

When something keeps your bite from being evenly distributed throughout your mouth (tooth loss, clenching, grinding, and so on), it can cause occlusal trauma.

This can manifest as worn or chipped teeth, sensitive areas on the teeth, gum recession, headaches, or a “popping” sound when you open and close your mouth. In addition, an uneven bite places pressure on teeth and this can accelerate periodontal disease including bone loss and loosening of teeth.

Occlusal equilibration redistributes that pressure so your bite is even, eliminating spots of excess pressure and allowing the bones and ligaments to heal.

During this procedure, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert will note all of the areas where your teeth don’t align properly, then re-shape and adjust on the teeth using the dental handpiece. This restores your correct mouth structure and alleviates pain caused by misaligned jaws.

Many of our patients who have had occlusal equilibration have seen results quickly, saying they can feel the difference in their bite within even minutes of the procedure.

Determining if Occlusal Equilibration Is Right for You

At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff both love helping their patients who would benefit from occlusal equilibration and they can help you determine if this treatment is right for you.

The first step is to schedule a diagnostic appointment, where Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert will assess your mouth’s structure and analyze how your teeth move against one another. This will allow them to determine if adjusting the biting surfaces of your teeth could help reposition your jaws properly. If they determine occlusal equilibration is right for you, our office will help you schedule a separate appointment for the procedure.

Ready to find out if occlusal equilibration could help your jaw pain? Contact us to schedule your diagnostic appointment.

Acute Jaw Pain: What Causes It and How Do We Treat It?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Chronic or intense jaw pain can be debilitating, making it difficult to speak or eat properly. When the pain is severe enough, it can even disrupt your sleep or limit your ability to function normally in your everyday life.

Jaw pain can include jaw tenderness, pain when you bite down, pain in or around your ears, and headaches. There are many possible causes of jaw pain, so it can be challenging to diagnose what is causing it.

Read on to learn some of the common causes of acute jaw pain and how we treat it here at Eggert Family Dentistry using a device called the Aqualizer®.

Common Causes of Jaw Pain

While over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatories can temporarily reduce jaw pain, to properly treat it you need to determine the root cause.

There are several conditions that can contribute to severe jaw pain, some of which are related to dental health, but not all. It’s important to consult both Dr. Eggert and your physician to diagnose the cause of your jaw pain. They will do a thorough exam, which may include dental X-rays, CT scans, or blood work.

The most common causes of jaw pain include:

Decayed or Abscessed Teeth

Pain from tooth decay or a tooth abscess can radiate to the jaw. Treatment may include fillings, crowns, a root canal, or extraction, depending on the severity of the problem.

Gum Infection

A gum infection is usually caused by bacteria that multiplies due to poor oral hygiene. The most effective initial treatment is a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing. Occasionally adding localized antibiotics can also improve the infection. Improved oral hygiene can help manage the gum disease caused by a gum infection and hopefully prevent future acute incidents.

Cluster Headaches or Migraines

A migraine typically presents as a throbbing headache on one side of the head, while a cluster headache usually starts as pain behind or around one of the eyes. Both can also send pain to the jaw. There are also times when overuse of the jaw muscles or jaw joint can send pain signals that manifest as cluster headaches or migraines.

Sinus or Ear Infections

Infections of the sinuses or ear canals can also cause pain to radiate to the jaw. When sinuses or ears become infected, often an excess of mucus puts pressure on the jaw joint, causing pain.

Heart Attack or Angina

Jaw pain can sometimes accompany a heart attack or angina. During a heart attack, pain can radiate to the arms, back, neck, or jaw. Women are especially likely to experience jaw pain on the left side when having a heart attack.

If you experience any of the following symptoms along with your jaw pain (even if you don’t have chest pain) you should immediately call 911:

Chest discomfort
Shortness of breath
Sweating
Nausea
Feeling faint

Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition commonly caused by compression of the trigeminal nerve—a large, three-part cranial nerve that provides sensation to a large portion of the face, including the upper and lower jaws. This condition causes brief but excruciating jaw and facial pain on one side of the face. It can feel like shooting, stabbing, or electrical pain, and can mimic dental pain. Treatment for trigeminal neuralgia typically involves medication or surgery.

TMJ or TMD

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, or Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) are the most common causes of jaw pain. The temporomandibular joints are the hinge joints on each side of your jaw. Pain can originate in either the joints themselves or the muscles surrounding the joints. This condition can be difficult to treat because there are multiple potential causes, including: muscle pain, jaw joint injury, overstimulation of the jaw joint, a displaced disc, or arthritis of the protective disc that cushions the jaw joint.

Damage to the jaw joint or the muscles that control your jaw movement can be caused by several factors, including:

Grinding your teeth
Involuntarily clenching your jaw due to stress or anxiety
Jaw joint trauma, such as a sports injury or other facial injury
Upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS) and lack of reparative sleep

TMJ or TMD muscle tension can often be treated with muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory drugs, or a custom fitted dental orthotic (similar in concept and shape to a mouth guard). Joint dysfunction is generally treated with anti-inflammatories and sometimes arthroscopic surgery.

Bruxism

A person with Bruxism grinds or clenches their teeth, either while sleeping or even throughout the day—and in most cases, they don’t realize they’re doing it. Bruxism is generally caused by stress, and it can, in turn, cause jaw pain. Bruxism can often be treated using a custom fitted dental orthotic—a splint typically worn at night, but sometimes with some day use if needed.

Treating Acute Jaw Pain with the Aqualizer®

At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff use a device called the Aqualizer® to treat acute jaw pain.

The Aqualizer® is a self-adjusting dental splint used to diagnose how much a patient’s dental bite contributes to their jaw or facial pain. The extent that it helps relieve this pain indicates whether dental treatment will be an effective solution.

The Aqualizer® works by allowing the jaw muscles to automatically reposition the jaw to where it naturally works best. It allows the body to correct bite distortions to restore optimal function and balance. Biting down on the Aqualizer® causes the fluid contained in the device to distribute the bite force evenly across the bite, relieving jaw pressure and pain.

This device is meant to be used short-term and is helpful for acute jaw pain related to TMJ or Bruxism. In addition to treating jaw pain, it can also bring relief to chronic neck, shoulder, and migraine pain. It can be very helpful in narrowing in on a diagnosis for your problem.

Are You Suffering with Acute Jaw Pain? Schedule a Visit Today

If you are experiencing jaw pain, Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff are here to help. Schedule an exam today to determine the cause of your jaw pain and to discuss your treatment options, including whether an Aqualizer® may be right for you. To schedule an appointment, call our office at 651-482-8412.