Tag: Invisalign

The Surprising Ways Oral Health Influences Inflammatory Diseases

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

You know oral health is important, but what you may not realize is that oral health impacts overall wellness. Many studies link poor oral health to serious systemic issues, including diabetes and heart disease. The culprits? Harmful bacteria and inflammation. Let’s take a closer look!

The Oral-Systemic Connection

Poor dietary and lifestyle habits, preexisting health conditions, dry mouth, or infrequent dental care can cause harmful bacteria to build up in a person’s mouth. When these bacteria are allowed to persist, they easily infect gums, often leading to gum disease, also known as periodontitis. From that point, they can seep into the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body.

Anytime your body perceives a threat, it will begin an inflammatory process to protect that part of the body and promote healing. In the case of an injury, for example, the body rushes white blood cells to the site of an injury to protect it and promote healing. With chronic inflammation, however, white blood cells perceive a constant threat over time, often sending white blood cells into nearby organs and systems. This can harm surrounding tissues and damage organs.

When harmful bacteria lodge in the gums, an inflammatory process begins. When these bacteria move through your bloodstream into other parts of your body, inflammation follows.

Thus, what begins as oral negligence can result in inflammatory diseases throughout the body.

Key Inflammatory Diseases Linked to Oral Health

Diabetes: Diabetes is a common inflammatory disease that can be linked to oral health…and it’s a two-way street.

People with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk for gum disease. That’s because higher glucose levels in the body mean higher glucose levels in the mouth. Elevated sugar levels in the mouth make it a more habitable place for harmful bacteria to grow and thrive, often leading to periodontal disease.

In another scenario, poor oral care can lead to periodontal disease, causing elevated blood sugar, contributing to insulin resistance, and leading to the development of diabetes or making diabetes more difficult to control.

Heart Disease: Heart disease is another inflammatory disease that can result from untreated gum disease. In fact, periodontitis increases a person’s risk for cardiovascular disease by 20%.

It all begins when harmful bacteria enter the bloodstream through inflamed gums and cause plaque to build up on the artery walls. When this plaque builds up, the artery walls narrow, restricting blood flow. This scenario puts a person at a higher risk of a heart attack or stroke. Bacteria can also build up on the heart valves, resulting in endocarditis.

Alzheimer’s Disease: Gum disease results in the formation of the bacteria porphyromonas gingivalis. These bacteria produce a toxic enzyme known as gingipains. Gingipains contribute to the buildup of beta-amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. When gingipains migrate to the brain, they can damage nerve cells essential for memory, leading to memory loss and, over time, Alzheimer’s disease.

Preventative Care to Protect Your Health

While the thought of oral health issues going systemic might make you nervous, prevention starts with simple steps that help you keep your mouth healthy!

  • Brush, floss, and swish with mouthwash daily to remove food particles before they turn into plaque, harden into tartar, and trap bacteria under the gum line, leading to gum disease. 
  • Limit the consumption of sugars and acidic foods. Avoid smoking, vaping, and other unhealthy lifestyle habits.
  • Visit Eggert Family Dentistry for routine professional cleanings. During these visits, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert will look closely for any inflammation or early signs of gum disease. They’re equipped with the knowledge and tools to help you maintain—or reclaim—a healthy mouth!

As we approach World Oral Health Day on Thursday, March 20, we want to empower you to take charge of your oral health and for a healthier mouth, a healthier body, and a happier life! Schedule your next recare visit with Eggert Family Dentistry by calling us at 651.482.8412. 

The Role of Dental Crowns in Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Believe it or not, dental crowns have been around since ancient times. Thought to have originated in Italy in the 700s BC, these first crowns were made of gold and communicated status among the aristocratic population. Fast forward two millennia to 1903, when Dr. Charles Land developed the first crown with hints of porcelain material as a way to repair a broken tooth.

Today, the role of crowns is two-fold. Crowns are both structural and aesthetic. Let’s take a closer look!

What Are Dental Crowns?

If you’ve heard people talk about crowns but you’re not entirely sure what they are, think of a crown like a hat or helmet for your tooth. This “helmet” fits snugly over your natural tooth, protecting it from splitting or breaking. Then it’s bonded into place. Before placing a crown, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert removes a small amount of enamel from your tooth to ensure a proper fit.

Crowns are available in porcelain, metal, or a combination of the two. With the steadily improving porcelains over the years, porcelain remains the most popular choice among today’s dentists. It is highly durable, looks natural, and can be matched closely to the color of your existing teeth. Porcelain is both functional and aesthetic.

How Are Dental Crowns Created?

Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert begins by examining your tooth and taking any necessary imagery to check its health and structure. If they determine that a crown is the best choice for your tooth, they will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and reshaping it to ready it for the crown. Then, they will take an impression or scan of your tooth either electronically or with putty.

In many cases, our amazing dentists can create your crown the same day with our CEREC method. If they need to order your crown from an outside dental lab, they will fit you with a temporary acrylic crown, and you will schedule an appointment for your permanent crown two weeks later. Any crown you receive at Eggert Family Dentistry will match the color, shape, and size of your natural tooth for a flawless appearance!

When Are Dental Crowns The Best Choice?

By nature, teeth are subjected to significant wear and tear. Over time, they can develop cracks, fractures and even start to decay. In these instances, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert generally recommend dental crowns to strengthen these weak teeth and extend the life of the natural teeth as long as possible. Restoring the integrity of a tooth or teeth is a crown’s primary function.

A Crown’s Many Jobs

Indeed, crowns are champs when it comes to protecting compromised teeth. But crowns have other important jobs as well!

  • Crowns can be placed on the teeth adjacent to a missing tooth to anchor a dental bridge securely.
  • Crowns can cover discolored teeth, creating a brighter smile.
    Read Mary’s story!
  • Crowns should always be placed over a tooth after a root canal treatment to keep the tooth from cracking.
  • Crowns are placed on top of dental implants to restore function and appearance.

Extend Crown Life With Proper Maintenance

Crowns are durable, but they’re not indestructible. With proper care, crowns should last 5-15 years. In some cases, crowns must be prematurely replaced on account of poor dental hygiene or fractures to the crown itself. In most cases, however, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert replace crowns because acidic and sugary foods or dry mouth cause the underlying tooth to decay.

A crown is a lasting investment in your dental health. Use these tips to help extend its lifespan:

1. Maintain a consistent daily dental care routine.

When you brush and floss regularly, you remove harmful bacteria and sticky plaque from the surface of your teeth and between your crown and your gum line, decreasing the likelihood of tooth decay.

2. Wear a custom night guard if you grind your teeth.

Limit excessive bite force with a custom night guard. This is especially important if you’ve been diagnosed with bruxism. Learn more about the custom night guards we create for our Eggert Family Dentistry patients!

3. Limit your intake of sugary or acidic foods.

You might not think that sugary and acidic foods can affect a crown, but these substances can hang out around the gum line and cause the underlying natural tooth to deteriorate. They can also eat enamel on surrounding teeth, creating a visible contrast between the color of your natural teeth and your crown.

4. Steer clear of sticky or hard, crunchy foods.

Biting on hard candies, popcorn kernels, and other crunchy foods can weaken crowns or cause them to crack, just like your natural teeth can. Sticky foods like taffy and gooey candies can actually dislodge crowns while increasing your risk of tooth decay. Foods in these categories are best avoided.

If it’s been awhile since your last recare visit, schedule an appointment at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN. In addition to a thorough cleaning and careful inspection of your jaws, teeth, and gums, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert will closely inspect any existing dental work to make sure it’s structurally sound and doing its job and recommend dental crowns and other interventions when needed. Call us at 651.482.8412!

Kickstart the Year with a Brighter Smile: Exploring Safe and Effective Teeth-Whitening Options

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

The new year stretches before us like a blank canvas, brimming with opportunities and untapped potential. It is a time to dream boldly, embrace fresh beginnings, and seize the promise of brighter days ahead. If you’ve been dreaming about a whiter, brighter smile, make 2025 the year you make this dream a reality. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we offer three effective teeth-whitening options guaranteed to boost your confidence! However, before we look at whitening options, let’s cover some causes of tooth discoloration.

Why Does Tooth Discoloration Occur?

Several factors can contribute to discoloration and dull your smile. Some of these include:

  • Tar in cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco
  • Inadequate brushing and flossing, which allows plaque and tartar to build up on your teeth’s surfaces.
  • Tannins, pigments, and acids in foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, sodas, berries, chocolate, balsamic vinegar, and tomato-based sauces
  • Aging unfortunately darkens teeth

So, while some bad habits may be at play, you can also make healthy lifestyle choices and deal with tooth discoloration. Consequently, tooth discoloration can affect anyone. With this in mind, let’s explore some options to help you whiten your smile.

KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching™ System

One exciting teeth-whitening option is the KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching™ System. This option restores your teeth’s ability to absorb oxygen, allowing for effective whitening of up to 16 shades. The custom-made bleaching trays ensure a perfect fit. Kör is the most effective whitening system on the market and can bleach even tetracycline-stained teeth—something previously thought to be impossible. If you’ve been wanting to whiten your teeth but are concerned about sensitivity, Kör could be the perfect solution for you!

Philips Zoom Whitening Treatment

As the name suggests, Phillips Zoom Whitening Treatment is fast and effective. Completed in a single two-hour visit, this whitening option can whiten your teeth by 4-10 shades.

Here’s how it works:

  1. We start by determining your teeth’s current shade.
  2. We prep your mouth and apply a thin layer of whitening gel.
  3. We illuminate your teeth with a blue LED light to accelerate the whitening process.
  4. We repeat this process three times in 15-minute intervals.
  5. We verify you’ve obtained your desired shade.
  6. We apply a post-treatment gel to protect your enamel and reduce any sensitivity.

Talk about instant results! After your Zoom whitening treatment, we send you home with trays and gel to help you maintain your bright white smile.

Feeling skeptical? Check out these Zoom success stories and view before-and-after photos! 

Professional-Grade Strips and Whitening Trays

A final, effective option we offer at Eggert Family Dentistry is professional-grade strips and whitening trays. Unlike over-the-counter teeth-whitening kits, these strips and trays help whiten the entire surface of the tooth—including the crevices between teeth. They also minimize sensitivity and whiten teeth anywhere from 2-8 shades, lending themselves to more comfortable and noticeable results than over-the-counter options.

If you’re going into 2025 with a less-than-confident smile, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert would love to help you explore which teeth-whitening option is right for you. Give our office a call at 651.482.8412 to schedule your appointment!

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

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

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

Indulge in Holiday Goodness While Protecting Those Pearly Whites

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

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

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

Not at all!

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

1. Stay hydrated.

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

2. Incorporate fiber-rich foods.

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

3. Chew sugar-free gum.

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

Your Teeth Have a Wish List, Too!

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

  • Keep up with daily brushing and flossing.

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

  • Swish with mouthwash.

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

  • Keep up with recommended recare visits.

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

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

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

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

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

The Ripple Effect of Gingivitis

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

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

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

Phew!

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

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

Prioritizing Oral Health Helps Protect Your Brain

Brush and floss regularly.

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

Eat healthy.

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

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

Live healthy.

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

  • Tobacco raises the risk of gum disease and slows down the gums’ healing process.
  • Alcohol is high in sugar and can kick off the gum disease cascade.
  • Vaping contains acidic compounds that can erode tooth enamel, damage the gums, and increase the risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease.

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

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

Control chronic conditions.

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

Schedule regular recare visits.

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

Other Factors That Affect Oral Health

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

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

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.

before and during bleaching

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!

Mary before and after

Mary Kay Before and After

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!

“I’d Like to Get Some Veneers” – The Dental Journey for Kris

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Kris came to Eggert Family Dentistry as a new patient in the summer of 2021, looking for a clinic closer to home after she had moved to the area.  Kris had been through Invisalign treatment in recent years, but her teeth had relapsed and she wasn’t happy with how things had changed.  She also noted that she had a small mouth and a gag reflex that made it difficult for her to tolerate x-rays.  Dr. Elizabeth was curious, wondering if Kris might have a compromised airway?  At her new patient appointment, Kris asked Dr. Elizabeth, “I’d like to get some veneers, but what would be involved?”   Kris told Dr. Elizabeth that previously a different dentist told her she would not be a candidate for veneers due to her bite.  Elizabeth believed that Kris would be a candidate for veneers, but suspected that some tooth movement first would be best.  So, Dr. Elizabeth welcomed Kris to undergo the records process with her in order to figure out how to get Kris the smile she deserves!

What did Kris want?

Kris’ main objective was to have whiter and bigger teeth.  She wanted to be able to eat without any limitations and have her teeth show in her smile.  She was sure it would give her so much more confidence.  She had friends who had had veneers done on their teeth and she loved the result.  What she didn’t know until undergoing the records process was why her teeth had relapsed after her last Invisalign treatment and why she had such a severe gag reflex.  Dr. Elizabeth noticed that her tooth positions were putting strain on her tongue and it looked like her tongue craved more space.  Dr. Elizabeth believed by addressing this, she could help Kris have a much more stable end result, a better airway, and set her up for beautiful veneers.  Therefore, Kris started her treatment with Invisalign.   

What was involved?

Kris underwent Invisalign treatment with goals to improve her crowding, expand her arch, create space for porcelain veneers, level her gum tissue, and provide comforting support for her joints and muscles.  After less than a year of Invisalign, Kris was then ready to plan for her restorations.  Before starting the restorations, Kris underwent Zoom Whitening in-office bleaching at Eggert Family Dentistry for both her upper and lower arches to help achieve the brightness she wanted.  A mock-up was done as well, to verify the shape of her future veneers.  Once Kris was happy with the color of the teeth that would stay natural and after she approved her mock-up, Kris was ready to prepare the teeth for veneers.  She spent part of the day with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and went through the procedures needed to get her teeth ready for her veneers.  After about 3 weeks with temporary veneers, Kris came back to seat her veneers.  Kris chose to veneer 8 teeth on her upper arch.

What does Kris think of her results?

Before undergoing procedures to get her veneers, Kris told us “I was really nervous because I didn’t know what to expect.  It seemed overwhelming in the beginning.”  Yet, she was very confident in Dr. Elizabeth and was excited to start the journey.  Kris told us that she didn’t mind the whole process and after undergoing everything, she understands the need for it to take some time.

Kris is very happy with her results.  She told us “Thank you!  I love it so much!  I am super happy with everything!”  She also shared, “I think it’s so funny that people at work and my friends can tell something is different but cannot pinpoint what it is!”  She would definitely recommend the treatment to others and says, “It is a team effort and you have to do everything that is expected of you for the best results.”  Kris feels that having a better smile is fantastic.   She would tell anyone thinking of having the treatment done “Do it in a heartbeat!  Of course, it is an investment but it’s not as bad as you think and definitely worth it!”

Congratulations Kris – you look fabulous and we appreciate your trust in us to help us live out our motto of providing “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles!”

Oral Facial Development and the Origins of Mewing

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Facial development plays a crucial role in many aspects of life, including breathing, eating, talking, and even your overall appearance. The way your face grows and develops is influenced by various factors, including genetics, environmental influences, and habits that you may not even realize are affecting you or your children. Understanding the connection between facial structure and function can help you make better decisions for your health and well-being. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert are here to guide you in recognizing and correcting any issues related to facial development.

Why is facial development important?

One of the most important aspects of facial development is how it impacts your ability to breathe properly. The position of your jaws, the width of your palate, and the alignment of your teeth all contribute to how well you can breathe through your nose. Improper development in these areas can lead to mouth breathing, which is less efficient and can contribute to a range of health issues, including sleep apnea and other breathing disorders. This is why it’s so important to pay attention to the development of your child’s facial structure from an early age.

Eating is another daily activity that is deeply affected by the development of your facial structure. If your jaw is misaligned or your teeth are crowded, it can make chewing difficult and uncomfortable. This can lead to improper digestion, as food may not be adequately broken down before it reaches your stomach. Additionally, the position of your teeth and jaw can affect how you swallow, which is another important part of the eating process. Ensuring that your facial structure is developing properly can help prevent these issues and promote better overall health.

Talking is a vital part of communication, and your facial development plays a key role in your ability to speak clearly and confidently. The position of your teeth, tongue, and jaw all contribute to the formation of sounds. If there are issues with the development of your facial structure, it can lead to speech impediments or difficulties in articulation. This can be especially challenging for children as they learn to speak, and it’s something that parents should be aware of as their children grow.

What is “mewing” and how is it related to facial development?

One trend that has gained significant attention in recent years is “mewing,” a technique that involves positioning your tongue against the roof of your mouth to encourage proper facial development. This practice was popularized by Dr. John Mew, an orthodontist who believed that proper tongue posture could help shape the face and improve issues like misaligned teeth and poor jaw structure. Mewing has become especially popular among the younger generation, largely due to social media platforms where influencers and health enthusiasts share their experiences and results. The idea behind mewing is that by maintaining good tongue posture, you can promote a more attractive facial structure and prevent issues related to improper development.

The popularity of mewing highlights a growing awareness of the importance of facial development, particularly among young people who are interested in improving their appearance and overall health. While mewing can be beneficial, it’s important to approach it with caution and to seek professional advice to ensure that you’re doing it correctly and not causing any harm. Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert at Eggert Family Dentistry are knowledgeable about these trends and can help you determine whether mewing or other techniques might be appropriate for you or your child.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert are dedicated to helping you and your family maintain healthy facial development. They can assess your facial structure, identify any potential issues, and provide guidance on how to address them. Whether it’s through orthodontic treatment, guidance on proper habits, or education on practices like mewing, they are here to support you in achieving optimal health and well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, to schedule an appointment and learn more about how you can promote proper facial development for yourself and your children. Call us today, 651-482-8412!

How Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Use Affects Dental and Facial Development in Children

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Use Affects Dental and Facial Development in Children

Thumb sucking and pacifier use are common soothing behaviors for infants and toddlers. While these habits provide comfort and are appropriate for the first few months of life, they can significantly affect your child’s dental and facial development if they continue too long. As a parent, understanding the potential consequences of prolonged thumb sucking and pacifier use is crucial for ensuring your child’s healthy development.

What happens?

When thumb sucking or pacifier use persists beyond the age of 12 months, it can start to impact the alignment of your child’s teeth and the shape of their jaws. These habits create constant pressure on the developing mouth, which can lead to problems such as an open bite, where the front teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed, or a crossbite, where the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting down. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, have seen firsthand how these habits can alter a child’s dental structure, leading to the need for orthodontic or other interventions.

In addition to dental alignment issues, thumb sucking and pacifier use can also affect the overall facial development of your child. Prolonged use of a pacifier or habitual thumb sucking can lead to changes in the shape of the jaw bones and the position of the teeth, which can impact the symmetry and esthetics of your child’s face. This can also contribute to speech and swallowing difficulties due to improper tongue positioning.   

What can be done?

The good news is that the sooner you help your child break these habits, the more likely they are to develop a healthy dental and facial structure. Stopping thumb sucking and pacifier use at a young age allows your child’s mouth and jaw to develop correctly because they can get their tongue in a position that promotes proper development. This can then prevent the need for extensive dental work later on. You might be surprised by the positive changes that occur when these habits are stopped early, as the mouth and facial muscles begin to realign naturally. Here are some before and after photos of during pacifier use and after simply stopping pacifier use. You can see the teeth have mostly self-corrected on their own.

How to help your child give up their pacifier or thumb

To help your child give up their pacifier, consider gradually reducing its use by limiting it to certain times, such as bedtime only. You can also introduce a reward system to encourage your child to go without the pacifier during the day. If your child is older, you might try explaining why it’s important to stop using the pacifier, using age-appropriate language to help them understand. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert often recommend these strategies to parents at Eggert Family Dentistry, as they have proven effective in many cases.

For thumb sucking, positive reinforcement is key, especially since you can’t keep the thumb away from the child! Praise your child when they refrain from sucking their thumb, and consider offering a small reward for keeping their thumb out of their mouth. You can also try using a bandage or a thumb guard to remind your child not to suck their thumb. If the habit is particularly persistent, consulting with the dentists at Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert, can provide additional guidance and support tailored to your child’s needs. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we have found setting young children up with the Myobrace Infant Trainer can prove especially effective because it develops correct muscle posture as well as gives the child something to keep in their mouth.

By addressing thumb sucking and pacifier use early, you can help ensure your child develops a healthy, beautiful smile. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert are here to support you and your child through every stage of their dental development, offering personalized advice and care to help your child achieve the best possible outcomes. Call us today with questions about how to help you and your family!  651-482-8412.