Cosmetic Dentistry Archives - Page 6 of 13 - Eggert Family Dentistry Blog

Treatment Options for a Full Mouth Reconstruction

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If you’re experiencing constant dental pain, have frequent dental visits to address problems, or simply have multiple cracked, broken, missing, or badly worn teeth, it might be time to consider a full mouth reconstruction.

A full mouth reconstruction is a comprehensive dental treatment that involves restoring or replacing all of the teeth in a patient’s mouth. This process usually includes a combination of restorative, cosmetic, and orthodontic or surgical procedures. Many of our patients here at Eggert Family Dentistry report feeling transformed when the treatment process is finished! This process, while it can be long and involved, provides our patients with an attractive smile and a healthy mouth, free of pain or discomfort!

Who Needs a Full Mouth Reconstruction?

A full mouth reconstruction may be needed for a variety of reasons, including:

Severe tooth decay
Significant occlusal (bite) issues
Advanced gum disease
Trauma to the teeth and jaw
Congenital defects that affect the structure and function of the teeth and jaw
Long-term chronic illness
Oral cancer or cancer treatment

Because the reasons for full mouth reconstruction vary so widely, so too do the treatment options. A combination of treatments is usually required for a holistic and comprehensive treatment plan that suits each patient’s unique needs.

Treatment Options for Full Mouth Reconstruction

We offer a variety of effective treatment options for a full mouth reconstruction, including orthodontic treatment with Invisalign, dental implant coordination with our preferred oral surgeons, prosthetic implant options, and dental restorations like crowns or veneers. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert will work closely with you to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.

Orthodontic Treatment: Your occlusion, or how your teeth contact, must be addressed before we perform additional restorative procedures. Orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners like Invisalign, can be used to straighten crooked or misaligned teeth. Orthodontic treatments will improve your bite and the symmetry of your smile.

Dental Implants: Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth. They consist of titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone and provide a stable foundation for a replacement tooth, bridge, or even denture. Dental implants offer a permanent solution for missing teeth and can improve the appearance, function, and overall health of the mouth.

Dental Restorations: Dental restorations like Dental crowns or veneers are used to restore damaged or decayed teeth. They are custom-made to fit over the affected tooth and are designed to look and function like a natural tooth. Crowns and veneers can improve the strength and durability of a tooth and can also improve the appearance of a patient’s smile.

What to Expect From Eggert Family Dentistry

Here’s what you can expect when receiving a full mouth reconstruction at Eggert Family Dentistry.

Evaluation: You will come in for a consultation with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert, during which we’ll conduct a detailed evaluation of your muscles, jaws, and teeth. This is also where we’ll talk about any health considerations you have, as well as your esthetic goals.
Determining a treatment plan: Based on all of the above considerations, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert will work with you to determine a treatment plan that best suits your needs. We’ll answer any questions you may have so that you receive the perfect personalized solution.
Treatment: This treatment is a long-term project involving multiple visits, but we will be happy to walk you through every aspect of your treatment plan, so you have a clear idea of the timeline. We will also help you work with our preferred dental specialists if needed like an oral surgeon or orthodontist. Depending on which treatments you need, the full mouth reconstruction process can take anywhere from 6 months to two years.

Let’s Give You the Smile You’ve Been Dreaming Of

Eggert Family Dentistry is a highly respected dental practice that offers comprehensive full mouth reconstruction services. Dr. Jeff Eggert and Elizabeth Eggert and their team use state-of-the-art technology and techniques to help their patients achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile. If you are in need of a full mouth reconstruction, Eggert Family Dentistry is here for you. Contact us today or give us a call at 651.482.8412 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you achieve a healthy, confident smile!

Full Mouth Reconstruction: The Importance of Treatment Planning

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Whether you’re dealing with extensive tooth loss from injury or aging or severe tooth decay, if you have an array of dental issues that have been causing you problems, you may be a candidate for a full mouth reconstruction.

As with all complex processes, it’s imperative to plan your course of action ahead of time if you want the best outcome. For a full mouth reconstruction, Eggert Family Dentistry provides quality treatment planning which involves careful assessments, diagnosis, and treatment.

Let’s take a look at the importance of treatment planning for a full mouth reconstruction:

1. Getting an Accurate Diagnosis and Assessment

Treatment planning for a full mouth reconstruction starts with a comprehensive dental examination as part of our Records Process. The Records Process includes gathering x-rays, photographs, and impressions of the teeth and gums. The examination will allow Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert to take note of any bite issues, jaw problems, or esthetic concerns. With this information, we can then make an accurate diagnosis that will help us develop a treatment plan that meets your specific needs and goals.

2. Creating a Customized Treatment Plan That Meets Your Unique Needs

Because every patient’s dental needs and goals are unique, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to a treatment plan for a full mouth reconstruction. A customized treatment plan will be developed based on your dental assessments and preferences.

At this stage, Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert will provide a detailed explanation of why we recommend a certain course of treatment and what it involves. This plan will outline the recommended procedures and expected timeline for completion. We will review the entire treatment plan with you, including follow-up visits, and provide you with instructions to support your treatment plan at home. During this stage, we may also create a dental mock-up, or a 3-D model of your smile that will show you the expected outcome of your treatment.

3. Taking A Comprehensive Approach to Treatment

A full mouth reconstruction typically involves multiple dental procedures, such as dental implants, crowns, bridges, and veneers. Oftentimes, ways to improve the bite, like splint therapy or orthodontics may also be indicated. Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert will work to improve the overall look of your smile. The entire treatment will likely take multiple office visits.

4. Minimizing Treatment Time and Cost

Treatment planning for a full mouth reconstruction is essential for minimizing treatment time and cost. By carefully outlining the procedures and optimizing their outcomes, we can reduce the number of visits needed and the duration of the treatment. Additionally, a detailed treatment plan will help you understand the cost of each procedure and plan accordingly, avoiding unexpected expenses.

5. Creating a Better Patient Experience

Treatment planning for a full mouth reconstruction is critical for ensuring a better patient experience. A comprehensive approach that addresses prior dental issues and meets all your goals will help minimize pain, discomfort, and anxiety during the treatment. Additionally, a detailed treatment plan will help you understand the process, prepare for the procedures, and have realistic expectations about the outcome.

Let the Experts at Eggert Family Dentistry Plan Your Treatment

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we understand that quality treatment planning is crucial for a successful full mouth reconstruction. If you’re considering a full mouth reconstruction, it’s essential to work with a qualified and experienced dentist who can develop a detailed treatment plan and guide you through the process. If you’re interested in talking to Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert about a full mouth reconstruction, contact us today or give us a call at 651.482.8412. We look forward to creating a plan to achieve your healthiest, most beautiful smile!

How Eggert Family Dentistry Uses “The Records Process” and Mock-Up Procedures to Create New Smiles

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Our smile is often the first thing that people notice about us, and it plays a significant role in our self-esteem and overall well-being. People who experience frequent dental problems, however, can feel robbed of that sense of contentment and confidence. Fortunately, advances in modern dentistry have made it possible to transform even the most challenging smiles into works of art.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we believe that everyone deserves to feel proud of their smile, which is why we use a combination of the records process and mock-up procedures to create new, beautiful smiles for our patients.

While the records process provides the foundation for developing a comprehensive treatment plan, dental mock-ups provide a visual “preview” of the proposed treatment outcome. Let’s explore how these techniques work and find out if they can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

What is The Records Process?

The records process is a crucial step in the diagnostic and treatment planning process. It involves gathering and organizing all the necessary information about your dental and medical history, current oral health status, and treatment goals to create a comprehensive care plan.

The records process typically includes the following steps:

Comprehensive dental exam: For this exam, Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and oral tissues. This may include taking dental x-rays, photographs, and impressions or scans of your teeth and bite.
Medical and dental history: We will then review your medical and dental history, including any medications or supplements you are taking, past dental treatments, any relevant medical conditions, or pain issues.
Diagnostic tests: We may order additional tests or procedures to aid in the diagnosis and treatment planning process. This may include periodontal (gum) assessments, oral cancer screenings, and sleep questionnaires.
Occlusal (Bite) Analysis: We will ask you to move your jaw through different motions as well as palpate your TMJ and muscles to check for consistencies with your bite.
Treatment plan: Based on the information gathered during the records process, we’ll develop a customized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. This plan may include splint, restorative, cosmetic, or orthodontic procedures, as well as recommendations for sleep or medical follow-up, at-home oral hygiene, or preventive care.

Patient Stories:

The records process is essential for ensuring accurate diagnoses, effective treatment planning, and successful outcomes. It also provides a baseline for monitoring our patients’ progress and adjusting treatment plans as needed.

For example, our patient “M” had recently undergone corrective jaw surgery, but was still experiencing issues with his bite. To make sure we got a holistic picture of M’s oral issues post-op, we put him through the records process and were able to determine that he needed to have his front teeth lengthened slightly to correct his occlusal imbalance. (Read M’s full story here.)

The records process also helps us to determine external factors that may be contributing to our patients’ dental problems. For example, our patient Tom needed a full mouth reconstruction, but we were concerned that his bruxism would damage his new implants if we didn’t correct the underlying cause of it. Because the records process provided comprehensive knowledge of Tom’s other symptoms, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert was able to recommend further treatment that allowed Tom to sleep better and breathe easier at night. (Read Tom’s full story here.)

What is a Dental Mock-Up?

If the records process is the “blueprint” for your treatment plan, then the dental mock-up is the architectural model.

A dental mock-up is a procedure used to create a three-dimensional replica of your teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues. It involves creating a temporary model of the desired outcome of a dental procedure, such as a full mouth reconstruction, to allow you and Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert to preview the results before moving forward with the treatment.

During the mock-up process, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert will use dental material, such as wax or composite resin, to build up or reshape your teeth. This will allow you to see how your new smile will look and make any necessary adjustments.

Dental mock-ups are most commonly used for cosmetic procedures, such as porcelain veneers or an arch of new dental crowns. They are a valuable tool for both our office and our patients, as they allow for better communication and collaboration in the treatment planning process.

Are You Experiencing Constant Dental Problems?

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we take a holistic approach to oral health and want to make sure our patients not only have a beautiful smile, but a comfortable one too. If you’re experiencing a constellation of oral health problems and are interested in learning more about these unique smile-transformation techniques, please contact us or call us at 651.482.8412 to schedule an appointment!

The Power of a Great Bite – Steve’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Steve came to us in 2020 and talked to us about how his bite never felt right after a new crown had been done at another dental office. Steve said that he even had undergone two rounds of Invisalign trying to make his bite feel normal again. He told us he chose our office because he researched and found that Dr. Elizabeth Eggert had the experience he was looking for in regard to helping people feel better about their bites. He told us, “I am not happy with my bite and I really just want my jaw to feel better.” He was not concerned cosmetically about his teeth, but wanted to be comfortable with his bite and to be able to eat again without feeling like he would break his teeth.

What was involved?

Steve underwent the Records Process and some interesting things were noted from the analysis. Dr. Elizabeth was able to obtain Steve’s pre-Invisalign records and noticed that he started with spaces between many of his front teeth.

Pre-Initial Invisalign

The analysis helped her find that Steve had a strained muscle and jaw position and therefore, it made sense for Steve to start his treatment with splint therapy to help find a consistent bite position for jaw and muscle comfort. The best appliance for Steve was an Anterior Deprogrammer to help his muscles release and decrease pressure and stress on his functional system. After splint therapy, it was clear that Steve’s bite had unevenly high points and his body seemed to crave more space in his mouth because his lower jaw wanted to be forward from where it was. It was almost like he was “locked” into an uncomfortable position. Dr. Elizabeth suspected that because Steve’s first Invisalign treatments closed the spaces between his teeth, that a cascade of muscle imbalances followed for him.

She recommended that Steve undergo Invisalign AGAIN in order to open the spaces back up and then restore his teeth to fill in the gaps.

Invisalign helped gain space back and Steve’s muscles were finally able to relax again, however his teeth still hit somewhat unevenly in the back. Therefore, equilibration was also completed for Steve to even out the bite forces on his teeth now that his muscles were in a calm position. After the 3^rd round of Invisalign and the equilibration, Steve told us “My muscles feel REALLY GOOD!”

Before restoring his anterior teeth with porcelain veneers to fill in the gaps, Steve also wanted the rest of his teeth whiter. Steve completed the Zoom bleaching procedure and brightened up at least 5 shades!

What does Steve think?

Steve is very happy with the final results and said that during the procedure he did not have any worries.

“I think it was a good process and I didn’t have any sensitivity with my teeth.” He told us his muscles and bite feel much more stable and he no longer gets the feeling that he is going to break his teeth. He said “The timeline was good and it went by fast.” His family also likes the results, but Steve says “It really wasn’t about the cosmetic aspect for me, but it was worth it to have the stability in my bite!”

Congratulations Steve – your results are amazing! We are so happy we were able to get your bite back for you. This case was a fun puzzler for Dr. Elizabeth because she was able to figure out how important your “pre-condition” was to a future successful outcome! We appreciate you putting your trust in us!

12 Days of Christmas, Eggert Family Dentistry Style!

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Maintain healthy teeth and enjoy a little holiday fun with the 12 days of Christmas, Eggert Family Dentistry style! (We dare you not to hum along!)

The 12 Days of Eggert Family Dentistry Christmas

On the 1st day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…1 Records Process for a healthier mouth in 2023!

On the 2nd day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…2 recare visits for healthy teeth. (Here’s what you can expect at your next recare visit!)

On the 3rd day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…3 fillings for my cavities. (Did you know there are different types of dental fillings? Learn all about them!)

On the 4th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…4 sealants to prevent my kiddos’ cavities. (Learn how to spot and prevent cavities and keep your kids’ mouths healthy!)

On the 5th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…5 ways to improve my smile. (So I can show off those pearly whites!)

On the 6th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…6 Seattle Protocol Steps to help me sleep. (This gradual, gentle, and reversible process helps us identify solutions for our patients with airway issues.)

On the 7th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…7 steps to whiter teeth (with the Zoom whitening system!)

On the 8th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…8 Invisalign trays to straighten my teeth. (Enough for the first four months of my Invisalign treatment!)

On the 9th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…9 new toothbrushes for healthy teeth. (Are you changing your toothbrush every 3-4 months? If not, you should be!)

On the 10th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…10 experienced team members! (Our team works together to bring you the best dental care possible. We love our patients!)

On the 11th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…11 (plus more) tips for healthier, brighter and whiter teeth this holiday season. (Our blog is full of some great oral health tips and other resources. Check them out here.)

On the 12th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…12 (and more!) Eggert Comforts to ease dental phobias. (If you’re afraid of the dentist, you’re not alone! We’ll help make you as comfortable as possible.)

Happy Holidays from Eggert Family Dentistry!

From all of us at Eggert Family Dentistry, we wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a wonderful 2023! And as you look toward the year ahead, there’s no time like the present to schedule your recare visits! Contact us to schedule your next visit with Dr. Elizabet Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert today.

9 Oral Health Gift Ideas for the Holidays

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Not sure what to buy for your loved ones this holiday season? Why not give them the gift of a healthy, happy mouth? Not only are dental hygiene gifts practical, but they can also be fun! Better yet, they’re usually highly appreciated. This holiday season, check off your gift-list with this round-up of 9 creative oral health gift ideas.

1.) Electric Toothbrush ($20-200)

Did you know that an electric toothbrush has been proven to decrease more plaque and gingivitis than a manual toothbrush? While these toothbrushes are definitely more of an investment than their manual counterparts, dentists like Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert agree: they’re absolutely worth it! When you give a family member or friend one of these toothbrushes, you can feel good knowing that their oral health is about to improve dramatically!

2.) Fancy Toothpaste ($10-55)

Have you dived into the world of luxury toothpastes before? If not, you’re in for a treat, literally. From fancy toothpastes that reportedly taste like cocktails, to gel toothpastes that harness the power of oxygen to heal your gums, there are so many options to choose from that will delight and amaze your giftees!

3.) Dental Travel Kit ($3-10)

Do you have a frequent flier in your life? A digital nomad? A dental travel kit will make an excellent stocking-stuffer for anyone who’s been bitten by the travel bug. It’s not always convenient to carry around a full size brush, floss, toothpaste tube, and bottle of mouthwash with you everywhere you go, so having mini versions of these that can fit in a small bag is ideal.

4.) Sugar free gum and mints ($1-20)

These gifts make great stocking-stuffers! Sugar free gum is good for your dental health because it stimulates saliva production which keeps your mouth healthy (it also freshens your breath!) Sugar free mints have these same benefits without the chewing, which make them perfect for people who prefer not to chew gum. You’ve also maybe heard us talk about Xylimelts, a mild mint product with xylitol. They keep your saliva production up as well as help you fight cavities!

5.) Water Flossers ($10-200)

If you’ve got someone in your life who has braces, or someone who struggles with carpal tunnel, arthritis, or other dexterity limitations, a water flosser such as the Waterpik would make a perfect oral health gift. Water flossers flush bacteria and food particles out from between the teeth and below the gums where floss can’t always reach. The water pressure also stimulates the gums, leading to an overall healthier mouth. While water flossers don’t replace actual flossing, they can make a great addition to your oral health routine!

6.) Professional Whitening Treatment ($650-1350)

Store-bought whiteners don’t whiten any bonding, veneers, or caps and crowns. Additionally, they can be mildly to extremely painful for people with sensitive teeth. If you really want to make somebody smile this holiday season, get them a professional Zoom or Kör whitening treatment. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we recommend Zoom whitening treatments for those who are looking for less expensive, quicker results. For people who have extreme sensitivity or tetracycline stained teeth, we recommend you take the Kör route, instead.

7.) Eco-Friendly Dental Supplies ($5-25)

Delight your eco-conscious friends and family with some ingenious eco-friendly dental supplies. From certified-vegan bamboo toothbrushes, to mint-flavored (non-vegan) zero-waste silk floss, to plastic-free chewable toothpaste tablets with fluoride, these products are both earth-conscious and budget friendly!

8.) Oral Care Subscription Box ($30-55)

Of all the subscription boxes out there, we think oral care has to be the most practical. After all, you use your toothbrush, floss, toothpaste, and mouthwash daily! It makes sense to restock on these products every month. Of course, you’ll want to shop around—some popular oral care subscription boxes include the eco-conscious Nudge and Bazoo, and Cocofloss for those who like fun floss flavors.

9.) Invisalign

The best gift you could give a person is a perfect smile! Invisalign is the name for clear aligners that act like braces, but are more discreet—almost invisible! Invisalign relies on the natural processes in your mouth to subtly reposition your teeth over time. Whether you’ve got a teenager looking for an alternative to braces, or an adult who wants to discreetly perfect their smile, contact Eggert Family Dentistry. We’ll be happy to create a custom Invisalign treatment plan for you and your family!

Have questions about Zoom and Kör whitening treatments, or Invisalign aligners? Call Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert today at 651.482.8412 We look forward to helping you check off your holiday shopping list this year!

Teeth Bleaching vs. Veneers

By: Dr. Elizabeth Egger

If you’re a coffee-lover or a wine connoisseur, you’ve probably considered a couple teeth-whitening solutions before. In fact, there are so many foods and drinks that can stain our teeth, you’d be hard pressed to find a person who wasn’t interested in making their smile whiter and brighter!

If at-home treatments like whitening toothpastes and whitening strips aren’t giving you the results you’re looking for, you might want to consider an in-office whitening treatment. When it comes to choosing between bleaching your teeth and having veneers made, however, there’s a lot to consider. The option that’s best for you is usually based on your level of staining, your budget, and your tooth sensitivity. Here’s a little about the professional options we offer:

Opalescence Go!

Pros:

Can take it home with you from your dental appointment
Effective
Inexpensive
Non-invasive

Cons:

Takes about 10 days at home
More sensitivity than other professional options
Not effective on restorations
Won’t remove deep stains
More “gooey” to use

Zoom! Whitening

Pros:

Fast, takes 2 hours in-office
Effective (8 shades whiter)
Less expensive than Kor
Non-invasive

Cons:

Possibly more sensitivity than Kor
Not effective on restorations (bonding, veneers)
Won’t remove deep stains

The Zoom! bleaching process is very simple. Dr. Elizabeth or Dr. Jeff’s team will first isolate your teeth, then apply peroxide gel to your teeth. A low heat light is placed close to your teeth that activates the whitening gel. You will undergo up to four 15-minute cycles during your session.

Kör Whitening

Pros:

Extremely effective (up to 16 shades whiter)
Non-invasive
Removes even tetracycline staining
Least amount of sensitivity

Cons:

About double the cost of Zoom!
Not effective on restorations (bonding, veneers)
Time-consuming – sometimes requires 4 in-office sessions and time at home

The Kör treatment was developed by Dr. Rod Kurthy in response to the lack of consistency in results of traditional whitening products, and complaints of sensitivity from patients post-treatment. This treatment is extremely effective, bleaching some patients’ teeth up to 16 shades whiter! It’s also the least sensitive option due to the science Dr. Kurthy used to develop his product, making it the perfect option for people with extremely sensitive teeth.

The Kör treatment involves both at-home and in-office processes. After an impression appointment and two weeks prior to your in-office appointment, Dr. Jeff or Dr. Elizabeth will give you an at-home kit that includes a dental tray and a special gel. This tray must be worn overnight, every night before your appointment. The at-home treatment allows for longer exposure to the gel, resulting in even whiter teeth.

When you come in for your appointment two weeks later, Dr. Elizabeth or Dr. Jeff’s team will apply a breathing gel to your teeth to finish the treatment. Sometimes a second in-office appointment is also needed, depending on the desired results.

Veneers as a Whitening Solution

Pros:

Extremely effective (you may choose your shade of white)
Completely masks all staining
Long-term results

Cons:

More costly
Alters tooth structure
Some tooth sensitivity
Time-consuming

Teeth bleaching works very well for lighter stains caused by food and drink. For more stubborn staining that can’t be removed by the bleaching process, you may consider getting veneers. This is the most involved whitening option of the three listed in this post.

Veneers are a very thin ceramic shell that covers your existing tooth structure. In placing these new veneers on your teeth, you can fix the look of issues such as staining, cracked teeth, spaces, misaligned teeth, chipped teeth, and more.

The process of getting veneers involves at least two to three visits to Eggert Family Dentistry. During the first visit, we will discuss the shape and look of your veneers and develop a plan together. On the second visit, we will prepare your teeth for the placement of the veneers by removing a thin layer of enamel. We will also take an impression of your teeth, and provide you with a beautiful temporary solution to cover your teeth over the next few weeks. Your final visit will take place two to three weeks later, during which Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert will place your brand-new veneers.

Let Eggert Family Dentistry Brighten Your Smile!

If you’re unsatisfied with the results of over-the-counter whitening treatments, call Eggert Family Dentistry at 651.482.8412 to discuss potential in-office whitening solutions and schedule an appointment. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert will be able to help you decide which option is right for you. We look forward to helping you achieve the smile you’ve been dreaming of!

Dry Mouth and Diabetes: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

By: Dr. Elizaabeth Eggert

While anyone can experience dry mouth, it’s one of the most common side effects of diabetes I and II. Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is an uncomfortable condition in which your body under-produces saliva, leaving your mouth feeling dry, rough, sticky, and just plain uncomfortable.

As we expanded on in a recent blog, saliva is extremely beneficial for your dental health. Since dry mouth is a reduction in the amount of saliva produced in your mouth, this condition can wreak havoc with your oral health.

But here’s the good news: dry mouth is a completely manageable condition that can be managed with at-home techniques, or treated here at Eggert Family Dentistry. But first, let’s explore the connection between dry mouth and diabetes.

Why Does Diabetes Cause Dry Mouth?

The two most common causes of dry mouth in people with diabetes are high blood sugar and the side effects of diabetes medications.

High Blood Sugar:

High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, is a common side effect of diabetes that isn’t well managed. While healthcare providers aren’t quite sure why high blood sugar causes dry mouth, chronic dry mouth is often the first noticeable symptom that someone with diabetes experiences.

Diabetes Medications:

Side effects of certain diabetes medications, including Metformin, include dry mouth. ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors, which are used to treat hypertension and diabetes, can also cause dry mouth.

Symptoms of dry mouth include:

Bad breath
Burning feeling in the mouth
Difficulty eating, chewing, swallowing, or speaking
Dry, cracked lips
Mouth that feels dry nearly all the time
Sores or infections in the mouth
Tongue that feels rough and dry

If you experience these symptoms consistently, be sure to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to make sure it isn’t a sign of another underlying condition. If your case of dry mouth is diabetes-related, you’ll be happy to know that it’s manageable at home and in our office!

How to Manage Dry Mouth With Diabetes

Everyone has different advice on how to manage dry mouth when you have diabetes, but all advice follows the same thread:

1.) Make sure you’re hitting your targets

2.) Take steps to moisten your mouth and encourage saliva production.

Here are some at-home remedies for managing dry mouth:

Manage your blood sugar levels.
Avoid salty, spicy, or sugary drinks and foods.
Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.
Avoid caffeine, which can dry out your mouth.
Chew gum or suck on hard candies that do not contain sugar.
Do not use tobacco.
Limit alcohol consumption.
Use alcohol-free mouthwash.
Use lip balm (to manage chapped lips).
Use a humidifier while you sleep at night.

To manage the effects of dry mouth on your dental health, brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly. Because dry mouth accelerates the process of tooth decay and gum disease, you want to be extra vigilant when it comes to taking care of your teeth!

How Eggert Family Dentistry Can Help

For patients with severe dry mouth, Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth can prescribe medications that stimulate saliva production, such as pilocarpine (Salagen) or cevimeline (Evoxac).

With the right medications and at-home management, dry mouth can be a thing of the past! Let Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff be your partner in managing the effects of diabetes on your dental health. Contact us or call us at 651.482.8412 to schedule an appointment today!

What Your Saliva Can Tell You About Your Oral Health

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Saliva: you know, that stuff we normally call “spit.” While most people may cringe and call it “gross,” dentists know that saliva is actually a healthy mouth’s best friend!

Healthy saliva production is a good indicator that your oral health is in tip-top shape. On the other hand, if your saliva production or the consistency of your saliva is unusual, it may be a warning sign of some underlying conditions that need to be addressed.

What is Saliva?

Saliva is a clear liquid that’s created by your mouth 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Produced by the salivary glands, saliva keeps your mouth moist and comfortable, but it also performs a number of other important functions.

Within your saliva are tiny amounts of some very important substances, including mucus, proteins, minerals, electrolytes, antibacterial compounds and enzymes. These minerals and enzymes have a huge role to play when it comes to your overall health. For example, the enzyme amylase allows saliva to aid in digestion, by turning starches into sugars which your body can more easily absorb. Unsurprisingly, saliva also plays a key role in your oral health, protecting you from a host of dental problems.

3 Ways Saliva Protects Your Mouth

Apart from good dental health habits, when it comes to fighting off bacteria and disease in your mouth, consider saliva your superhero. From killing germs and preventing bad breath, to defending against gum disease and tooth decay, you can count on your saliva to save the day! But how does it do it?

Every time you swallow, saliva sweeps away food and bacteria. This reduces the amount of bacteria in your mouth and neutralizes acids that would otherwise break down enamel and cause tooth decay.
Saliva also contains antimicrobial agents that kill disease-causing bacteria. Without this daily “cleaning service,” you’d find that you’d develop gingivitis, gum disease, and other oral infections much faster.
When acid does manage to damage tooth enamel, saliva actually repairs the tooth’s protective surface in a process called remineralization. Calcium, phosphorus, fluoride, and other minerals contained in saliva work together to coat and repair your enamel.

Saliva Symptoms and What They Mean

Aside from protecting your mouth, sometimes your saliva can be a key indicator that something is wrong in your body. Unusual production or consistency in your saliva can be a red flag to let you know that there’s a problem.

Not Enough Saliva

This is a condition known as dry mouth. Without enough saliva to coat your mouth, it can feel dry, sticky, and very uncomfortable. Dry mouth can be caused by a number of things, including:

Dehydration
Certain medications
Medical treatments
Diabetes
Anemia
Hypertension

…and more. Depending on the cause, dry mouth can be relieved by hydration, special oral rinses, medication to promote saliva production, and more.

Too Much Saliva:

Also known as hypersalivation, having too much saliva in your mouth can be just as uncomfortable as dry mouth. You may find yourself having to constantly spit or swallow throughout the day, which can even cause anxiety. Causes of hypersalivation include:

Nausea
Inability to swallow
Inability to keep mouth closed
Sinus or throat infections
Ulcers, inflammation, or pain in the mouth
Parkinson’s disease

…and more. In minor cases, hyper salivation can be treated at home with remedies such as brushing your teeth and using mouthwash to temporarily dry out the mouth. Hypersalivation can also be treated with medication, periodic botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, or in extreme cases, surgery.

Unusual Consistency

If your saliva is thick and opaque, that may be a sign that you have a yeast infection called oral thrush. This condition is more common in children and the elderly, and is treated with antifungal medications taken orally.

If your saliva is bloody, that may be an indication that you have developed gum disease. Bloody saliva will be most noticeable in the sink after brushing or flossing. If you think you have gum disease, call Eggert Family Dentistry and schedule an appointment right away. Treatments for gum disease include periodontal scaling and root planing.

Have Concerns About Your Saliva?

If you find that you’re producing excessive amounts of saliva, are experiencing bouts of dry mouth, or have noticed an unusual consistency in your saliva, call our office to schedule an appointment. Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert will be able to diagnose any problems and recommend or prescribe any treatments you may need. Call us today at 651-482-8412.

Diabetes and Your Dental Health

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If you have type I or type II diabetes, you’re at a higher risk for developing cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis. That means it’s especially important that you take good care of your teeth and gums by brushing and flossing regularly.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with diabetes, Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff Eggert can answer any questions you may have about how to best take care of your oral health. With the right strategies, managing the effects of diabetes on your dental health can be easy! Read on for more information about how diabetes can affect your dental health, and how the team at Eggert Family Dentistry can help.

What is Diabetes?

To understand how diabetes affects your dental health, we need to understand how diabetes works.

Most of the food you eat is processed as sugar. When your blood sugar reaches a certain level, a hormone called insulin is released. Insulin allows the sugar in your blood to be transferred to cells and used as energy.

With diabetes, however, your body doesn’t make enough insulin, or can’t use it as well as it should. Without enough insulin, too much sugar stays in your bloodstream.

High blood sugar can also weaken white blood cells, which are your body’s main way to fight infections. Over time, this decreased immune response can cause serious health problems, such as heart disease, vision loss, and kidney disease.

How Does Diabetes Affect Dental Health?

Everyone has billions of tiny bacteria living in their mouths. Some are good bacteria, and some are bad. When a person doesn’t brush their teeth or floss enough, the bad bacteria surrounding your teeth are given the opportunity to enter the gums and cause irritation, inflammation, and bleeding.

According to the American Diabetes Association, “If you have diabetes—especially if you’re not meeting your targets—you will have more of an inflammatory response [to the bad bacteria], which could result in a loss of supporting tissue for your teeth.” Too much loss of this gum and bone tissue that supports a tooth could result in the tooth needing to be removed.

To put it simply, diabetes accelerates the negative effects of bad bacteria in your mouth. While it may take a while for someone without diabetes to develop cavities and gum disease, for someone with diabetes, these processes occur at an accelerated rate and the damage is more severe.

Once you have an infection, diabetes can make it hard for your body to fight it. High blood sugar can weaken white blood cells, which means your overall immune response is also weakened.

Diabetes can also cause dry mouth. The lack of saliva from dry mouth means food debris, sugar, acid and bacteria don’t get washed away as easily. This leads to the formation of more plaque, which erodes the enamel and causes the aforementioned infections.

How to Protect Your Dental Health

Developing and maintaining good oral health is the best way to prevent cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease, whether you have diabetes or not. But if you do have diabetes, it’s extra important that you create good dental health habits.

The cornerstones of good dental health are:

Brushing your teeth twice a day
Flossing between your teeth once a day
Regularly scheduling dentist cleanings/appointments

Good blood sugar control will also help your body fight any bacterial or fungal infections in your mouth. The better you’re hitting your targets, the better equipped your body will be to protect itself against gingivitis and gum disease. It will also help relieve dry mouth caused by diabetes.

Don’t Let Diabetes Hurt Your Dental Health—Eggert Dentistry Can Help!

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, come see Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert. We have experience in helping our patients with diabetes protect against tooth decay, gingivitis, periodontal disease, and more with regularly scheduled recare visits and fluoride treatments.

To talk with us about any questions you may have, or to schedule an appointment, call our office at 651.482.8412. We’re here to help you maintain a happy, healthy mouth! We provide “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles!”