Take Charge of Your Dental Health in 2024!

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to focus more on your dental health? If not, it’s never too late to make it a priority! If you focus on keeping your teeth and gums healthy, your overall well-being (and your wallet) will thank you.

So how can you improve your dental health this year? Well, a healthy smile goes beyond just brushing and flossing — it also involves regular dental check-ups and “recare” visits. Let’s take a look at why improving your dental health should be high on your list, various ways you can improve your oral health, and some examples of easy dental resolutions you can follow in 2024.

The Link Between Dental Health and Overall Health

As the new year unfolds, many of us make resolutions to lead healthier lives, the classic resolution being to hit the gym. And while many think exercise and nutrition are the end-all-be-all of health, the truth is that our body’s wellbeing is a result of many interconnected systems, each affecting the other. Your dental health, for example, can impact various aspects of your overall health, including cardiovascular health, respiratory health, and even mental health.

Oral health’s impact on the heart: Study after study has shown that people who have poor oral health (such as gum disease or tooth loss) have higher rates of cardiovascular problems such as heart attack or stroke than people with good oral health. Researchers have proposed many theories as to why this connection exists, including bacteria from the mouth traveling through blood vessels, inflammation causing an immune response, or the correlating factor of smoking cigarettes. Whatever the cause, the relationship between oral health and cardiovascular health has been demonstrated many times over.

Oral health’s impact on the lungs: According to research, oral health directly impacts incidences and outcomes of lung diseases, such as pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In a healthy person, the lungs are usually able to fight off any bacteria that would accumulate in the mouth and travel through the respiratory system. However, when a person’s lungs are compromised by a pre-existing respiratory condition, the lung’s immune response is weaker. This makes it easier for bacteria that accumulates in an unclean mouth to travel to the lungs and cause infections.

Oral health’s impact on mental health: Studies since the COVID 19 pandemic have shown that mental health and oral health are correlated, with associations demonstrated between mental health problems and tooth loss, periodontal disease, and tooth decay. Dental decay and tooth loss can lead to more frequent pain, which often increases social isolation, and feelings of low self-esteem. All of this results in a lower quality of life, which often leads to poorer mental health.

Poor oral hygiene can have a domino effect on multiple systems of the body. By resolving to improve your dental health in 2024, you’re not just preserving your smile – you’re protecting the wellbeing of your entire body.

The Importance of Regular Recare Visits

Most people understand that brushing twice and flossing once daily are the pinnacles of good oral health. However, it’s equally important to schedule regular dental appointments, also known as recare visits — it is important to realize that these visits are much more than “just a cleaning.” It is essential to be committed to them and never skip out! When scheduled regularly, these appointments play a key part in preventing and detecting dental problems early on.

When you schedule a recare appointment with Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert can make sure that small problems like gingivitis and cavities don’t escalate into more significant (and expensive) issues, such as periodontal disease and tooth loss. When you come in for your appointment, not only will you get a professional teeth cleaning, but you’ll also receive a thorough check-up to ensure the health of your mouth and the quality of any dental restorations/devices such as fillings, crowns, dentures, or veneers.

Questions? Call Eggert Family Dentistry

Your smile is an essential part of your overall health, and when you prioritize your dental health, you’re investing in a lifetime of well-being. Call Eggert Family Dentistry at 651.482.8412 to schedule your recare appointment today or to ask any questions you have about dental health. Make 2024 the year you take charge of the health of your smile – your future self will thank you!

Illuminating Smiles: Navigating the Risks and Benefits of Tooth Whitening

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

A bright, radiant smile is often considered a universal symbol of health and vitality. As a result, tooth whitening procedures have gained immense popularity in recent years, promising to transform stained or discolored teeth into pearly whites. However, like any cosmetic procedure, tooth whitening comes with its own set of risks and benefits that individuals should carefully consider before embarking on their journey to a dazzling smile.

Understanding the Science Behind Tooth Whitening

To comprehend tooth whitening, we must delve into the science behind it. Tooth whitening primarily involves the use of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which break down into oxygen molecules. These oxygen molecules penetrate the enamel and dentin layers of the teeth, oxidizing and breaking down the pigmented molecules that cause discoloration. This chemical reaction is often referred to as “tooth bleaching.” The oxygen molecules also change how the light scatters within the tooth causing the tooth to look brighter.

Tooth whitening products mostly address the intrinsic (or internal) discoloration of the teeth. These products can also help with the extrinsic (or external) discoloration of teeth usually caused by staining due to aging, or consumption of staining substances like coffee, tea, or red wine. In general, tooth whitening does not really alter the natural color of teeth; rather, it restores them to their original, brighter shade.

Benefits of Tooth Whitening

The most obvious benefit of tooth whitening is an enhanced esthetic appeal. A brighter smile can boost confidence, improve self-esteem, and leave a lasting positive impression. Additionally, tooth whitening is a non-invasive procedure, making it a relatively quick and painless way to achieve noticeable results.

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert understand the transformative power of a radiant smile. Their commitment to providing personalized dental care includes offering tooth whitening services tailored to individual needs, ensuring patients achieve the results they desire.

Risks to Consider

While tooth whitening is generally safe, it’s not without some risks. Some individuals may experience tooth sensitivity or gum irritation as a side effect of the bleaching agents. Overuse or misuse of whitening products can lead to enamel erosion, making teeth more susceptible to cavities. It’s crucial to consult with a qualified dentist, like those at Eggert Family Dentistry, before starting any whitening regimen to ensure a customized approach that minimizes potential risks.

In the pursuit of a brighter, more confident smile, understanding the risks and benefits of tooth whitening is paramount. Eggert Family Dentistry, with its experienced team led by Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, offers a comprehensive approach to tooth whitening because we consider the unique needs and concerns of each patient. Ultimately, a radiant smile is not just about esthetics; it’s a reflection of overall dental health and well-being. Call us today to ask about tooth whitening options for you!  651-482-8412.

3 Teeth Whitening Treatments: How to Get A Snow-White Smile for the Holidays

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

The holiday season is officially here! At Eggert Family Dentistry, this is the time of year when many of our patients come to us wanting a smile that’s as white as snow for their holiday gatherings.

We understand how important it is for our patients to feel confident and beautiful in front of family and friends, and that’s why we offer a selection of effective teeth whitening solutions designed to suit a variety of preferences and schedules. Let’s take a look at the different options to help you decide which one is best for you!

Philips Zoom Whitening Treatment

One of our most popular whitening treatments is the Philips Zoom Whitening System. A swift and effective option, Zoom is performed in a single, two-hour appointment. We apply a professional whitening gel to your teeth and activate the gel with an LED light which allows the gel to better penetrate the teeth. This method can lighten your teeth by an impressive 4-10 shades! If you’re looking for a fast and effective treatment, you really can’t go wrong with Zoom.

KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching™ System

For those seeking a deep whitening treatment but have sensitive teeth, our KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching™ System might be the perfect fit. This option restores your teeth’s ability to absorb oxygen, allowing for effective whitening of up to an impressive 16 shades. The custom-made bleaching trays ensure a perfect fit, and the process involves little-to-no sensitivity. Kör is the most effective whitening system on the market and can bleach even tetracycline-stained teeth, which has been previously thought to be impossible to bleach!

Professional-Grade Strips and Whitening Trays

Over-the-counter whitening strips are a popular whitening option, however, the strips don’t provide coverage for the crevices of teeth. The part of the teeth along the gum line may also be missed. Extreme tooth sensitivity is common, and they only whiten teeth from two to four shades. That’s why Eggert Family Dentistry offers professional-grade whitening strips and trays. These are more effective and gentler on your teeth and gums than their over-the-counter counterparts. They can lighten your teeth 2-8 shades, and most people see results in as little as 2 weeks.

How to Maintain Your White Smile

Consistency is key in maintaining your whitening treatment for as long as possible. Follow any post-whitening care instructions provided by Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, using at-home maintenance products like personalized trays or a specific toothpaste for lasting results.

Avoid overconsumption of stain-causing foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, blueberries, and red wine to significantly extend your whitening results. That’s not to say you can’t ever enjoy these foods and drinks — just that you should do so in moderation, and always follow up with a thorough oral hygiene routine.

Regular dental check-ups at Eggert Family Dentistry are also essential for maintaining your oral health and the whiteness of your smile. With proper care, your smile will be sure to impress at any holiday gathering this year and beyond!

Get a Whiter, Brighter Smile Today!

This holiday season, don’t settle for over-the-counter solutions. Whether you prefer the speed of in-office treatments or the convenience of at-home options, Eggert Family Dentistry is here to guide you toward a brighter, more confident smile. Contact Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert at 651.482.8412, and let’s make your holiday smile shine!

Are There Any Restrictions After I Get a Crown?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

In the immediate hours after getting a dental crown, you may wonder, “What did Dr. Eggert say again?  Are there supposed to be any restrictions for me today?”  Well, wonder no more.  Here we will share several post-operative care measures that can contribute to a smoother recovery and enhance the longevity of your crown as well as improve your healing.

You maybe didn’t know, but our website has helpful post-operative instructions for most of the dental procedures done in our office including Crowns.

After the Preparation Appointment

After the preparation appointment, if you did not have a CEREC crown done, you are wearing a temporary crown or bridge.  This is held on with temporary cement.  Be sure to avoid sticky foods and gum so as to not pull the temporary off.  Also avoid hard or crunchy foods.  It is best to chew on the opposite side as much as possible.

Expect your gum tissues to be sore for a few days.  It helps to rinse with warm salt water (8 oz warm water and 1 teaspoon salt) 2-3 times daily for 3-5 days.  It also helps to take some over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or Tylenol for both gum soreness, tooth soreness, and jaw soreness.  Take that as directed in our office, for most patients that are able to take ibuprofen, we will recommend 600 mg of ibuprofen every 6 hours for the first 1-5 days.

It is important to brush and floss the temporary.  This will help the gum tissues heal faster.  Brush with small, circular, massaging strokes along the gumline.  While flossing, pull the floss out to the side if you experience a lot of resistance through the contact point of the tooth.  Occasionally temporary crowns will be splinted together, or in the case of a temporary bridge, use the floss threader as directed in our office.

Temporary crowns rarely come loose, but if yours happens to do so:

  • Don’t panic and try to save the temporary (i.e. don’t swallow it)
  • Attempt to re-fit the temporary on your tooth using toothpaste to hold it in place
  • Call our office right away to find a time for us to recement your temporary for you

What Are Some Symptoms I Should be Concerned About?

Occasionally teeth undergoing the preparation procedure will experience inflammation in the nerve.  This can happen with any tooth, but more commonly occurs in a tooth that has had a large filling or deep decay, cracking, fracture, or pain before the preparation procedure.  The inflammation in the nerve tissue can become irreversible, necessitating additional procedures for the tooth.  If you have any of the following signs or symptoms, call our office right away:

  • Prolonged pain after cold, hot, or chewing that gets worse over time
  • A dull ache that won’t go away
  • The need to take over-the-counter pain medicine for 5 days or more “around the clock”
  • Pain that wakes you up at night
  • Pain that gets worse over time instead of better
  • Swelling getting worse in the gums or tissues surrounding the tooth

After the Cementation Appointment

After the cementation appointment, the gum tissues and tooth may be sensitive and sore for a couple of days.  Use warm salt water rinses and over-the-counter pain medicine during this time if needed.  Brush and floss the new crown or bridge as you would any tooth.  If you experience any of the signs or symptoms listed above describing inflammation in the nerve, please call our office right away.  If you had a CEREC crown done, your preparation and cementation occurred all in one day.  The same instructions apply although there is no need to avoid sticky or crunchy foods.

Generally, you may want to avoid eating or drinking for a couple of hours after the procedure so you don’t accidentally bite your cheeks, lips, or tongue due to the local anesthetic used for your procedure.  It is also helpful to stick with easy to chew foods to minimize the stress for your tooth.

Once you have your final crown, practicing good oral hygiene remains essential.  It still is possible to get decay and gum disease even if your tooth has a crown.

After the placement of a dental crown, certain restrictions and considerations should be observed to ensure the optimal success and longevity of the restoration. While dental crowns are designed to restore the function and esthetics of a damaged tooth, it’s important to be mindful of so your crown can last for many years!

Eggert Family Dentistry, Your Dental Crown Experts

We’re here for you if you still have questions about what to do after your dental crown procedure.  Call our office today at 651-482-8412!  We look forward to working with you again soon!

Power of Sour: The Candy That Has Us Spooked

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Halloween is fast approaching, and while children rejoice at the prospect of consuming as much candy as possible, parents know that copious amounts of sugar can have monstrous effects on their teeth.

But not all Halloween candy is created equal! There is a certain kind of candy that, for dental professionals, is the stuff of nightmares. We’re talking of course, about sour candies.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we don’t want to take the fun out of Halloween, but we do want to arm you with the right information so you can make the best decisions for your family’s dental health! So, from sour gummy worms to WarHeads, let’s take a look at why sour candies are so harmful, and how you can protect your children’s dental health this Halloween.

Sugar, Sugar, Sugar

Sour candies are particularly damaging to your teeth. But in order to understand why, we need to first talk about how sugar affects your dental health.

Sugar feeds the harmful bacteria in the mouth that make up plaque. When these bacteria eat sugar, they produce acids that destroy tooth enamel, allowing these harmful bacteria strains to affect deeper layers of the tooth. This results in cavities and tooth decay, and can ultimately contribute to tooth loss.

Foods and candies containing high amounts of white processed sugar are particularly damaging because these foods leave a sticky residue on your teeth that is too strong for your saliva to wash away on its own. (That’s why it’s so important to brush your teeth after consuming sugary food and drink!)

How Sour Candy Affects Your Teeth

Sour candies are a double whammy – they’re sweet with sugar, allowing them to stick to your teeth, but they’re also more acidic, meaning they have a pH balance of less than 7.0.

This acid is what makes the candy sour, and unfortunately, it also weakens and wears away at your enamel. In fact, some sour candies are so acidic that they can actually burn the tongue, gums, and cheeks. Yikes!

To get an idea of the seriousness of the problem, here’s a chart that lists some popular candies along with their acidity. The lower the number, the more acidic the candy. And, keep in mind, this chart and research was done in 2007, the number of sour candies has exploded in the last 15 years so there are many, many more!

You’ll notice that one of the worst offenders, WarHeads Sour Spray, has an acidity of 1.6 — very close to battery acid. Talk about spooky!

This predicament is made worse when you consider that kids will often challenge each other to see who can hold a sour candy in their mouth for the longest time (looking at you, WarHeads!). This keeps the acidity high in the mouth for long periods of time and saliva doesn’t have the chance to neutralize the environment back to a healthy pH.

The Worst Types of Halloween Candy

Certain types of candy are especially bad for your teeth. Along with the chart we mentioned earlier, you should refer back to this list so that you’re ready when your child brings home their Halloween candy haul.

Hard Sugar Candy

(Examples: Lollipops, JollyRanchers, JawBreakers)

When it comes to dental health, the length of sugar exposure is directly related to the likelihood of tooth decay. Hard candies require you to suck on them until they dissolve, meaning the candy is in your mouth for much longer. This increases the amount of time your teeth are exposed to sugar, thereby increasing the chance of tooth decay. And, if the hard candy is sour, then your teeth are also exposed to a prolonged acid attack. As if that weren’t enough, hard candies can also break or chip your teeth!

Chewy or Sticky Candy

(Examples: Gummy worms, LaffyTaffy, caramels)

The stickier the candy, the worse it is for your teeth. That’s because sticky candy can easily get stuck in the nooks and crannies of your teeth, and is difficult to remove. As we’ve already mentioned, the longer a candy is in your mouth, the higher the likelihood of tooth decay. So even when you’re finished eating your gummy worms, the gummy worms are likely still in your mouth for hours afterward!

Sour Candy

(Examples: Sour Punch Straws, Sour Patch Kids, Warheads, Sour Skittles)

As we’ve mentioned, sour candies are highly acidic. Acid attacks the teeth by weakening and wearing away tooth enamel, and teeth without protective enamel are more likely to suffer from tooth decay. Each time you put a sour candy in your mouth, your teeth experience an acid attack that lasts about 20 minutes!

Tips To Protect Your Family’s Teeth

Luckily, there are a few ways you can protect your children’s teeth this Halloween.

  • Dental health education: Teach your children about the importance of dental hygiene. Explain what happens when acid wears away at a tooth’s enamel, and they might think twice about sucking on that WarHead!
  • Prevention: Consider making an appointment with Eggert Family Dentistry to have a dental sealant applied to your child’s teeth before Halloween rolls around. Sealants are a thin coating that protects the enamel of each tooth and prevents decay.
  • Sweet alternatives: If your child is reaching for their Halloween candy haul too often, encourage them to grab some of their favorite fresh fruits and vegetables instead. These won’t stick to their teeth and contain less sugar, but still taste great!
  • Good habits: Make sure your child brushes their teeth twice a day, and maybe more if they are eating a lot of sugary candy.  Be careful though of brushing too soon after eating sour things. Brushing will abrade away enamel under acid attack. It is best to allow your saliva to neutralize for awhile before brushing if you’ve eaten sour things.
  • Non-food alternatives: Consider offering your child a trade — extra screen time for 3 pieces of Halloween candy, a sleepover with friends for 5 pieces, a movie ticket for 10 pieces, etc.

At the end of the day, brushing, flossing, and recare appointments throughout the year will help protect your child’s teeth, especially during the spookiest time of year! Call us at 651.482.8412 to schedule your family members’ recare appointments today. We look forward to giving your family a healthier, happier smile!

The Fizz Dilemma: How Carbonated Water Affects Your Tooth Enamel

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Carbonated water, with its effervescent charm, has gained immense popularity among health-conscious individuals and soda lovers alike. It offers a refreshing alternative to sugary sodas. But have you ever wondered if those satisfying bubbles could be harming your pearly whites? In this article, we delve into the science behind the effects of carbonated water on tooth enamel, explore alternatives, and discuss how Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, Dentists at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, can help you maintain a radiant and healthy smile.

Understanding Carbonated Water

Carbonated water, also known as sparkling water or seltzer, is water infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure, creating delightful bubbles and fizz. While it’s often considered a healthier alternative to sugary beverages, it’s not without its concerns when it comes to your dental health.

The Science Behind It

When you enjoy a bubbly sip of carbonated water, the carbon dioxide dissolves in the water to form carbonic acid. It’s this mild acid that raises concerns for your tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth. It’s primarily composed of minerals, particularly hydroxyapatite, which can be vulnerable to acid erosion.

Carbonated water is mildly acidic, with a pH around 4.5, making it more acidic than tap water (pH 7). Regularly exposing your teeth to acidic substances can weaken and erode the enamel over time, leaving your teeth more susceptible to cavities and sensitivity.

Carbonated Water vs. Soda Pop

Surprisingly, carbonated water may be just as bad for your teeth as soda pop, albeit in a slightly less severe way. The carbonic acid in sparkling water can erode enamel gradually, while soda contains not only acid but also sugars that bacteria feed on, producing harmful acids. This can lead to more immediate and severe tooth decay.

Alternatives to Carbonated Water

If you’re concerned about your dental health but still want a refreshing beverage, there are alternative choices. Plain water is, of course, the best option for your teeth, as it is pH-neutral and doesn’t pose any risks to your tooth enamel. Herbal teas and unsweetened iced tea are also great alternatives. If you prefer carbonation, you can limit your consumption of carbonated water to meal time and consider switching to unflavored options or those with added minerals like calcium, which can help counteract the acidity.

Eggert Family Dentistry: Your Dental Health Allies

Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, our dentists at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, are dedicated to helping you maintain excellent oral health. They provide expert dental care, including preventive services, dental hygiene, and advice on maintaining strong and healthy teeth. Regular dental recare visits with check-ups and professional cleanings are crucial to addressing any enamel erosion concerns and maintaining your radiant smile.

Recently, Dr. Elizabeth completed an exam for a patient we hadn’t seen in over a year. This patient had 3 fillings recommended in January, 2022 due to decay between her teeth. Unfortunately, now, not even two years later, she has 8 fillings recommended and 2 crowns because her decay rate is rampant. When Dr. Elizabeth suspected something in the diet or a health change, she questioned this patient and together they determined the patient often drinks over 4 carbonated waters each day, sipping them throughout the day.

While carbonated water may have a milder impact on your tooth enamel compared to soda pop, it’s essential to be mindful of its acidic nature. You can enjoy sparkling water in moderation and opt for alternatives that are more tooth-friendly.

And when it comes to safeguarding your dental health, trust Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, to guide you on your journey to healthy, vibrant teeth. Your smile is worth preserving, and they’re here to help you do just that. Call us today to schedule your next recare visit! 651.482.8412!

Comprehensive Dental Care for All Ages: Why Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert Should Be Your Family Dentists in North Oaks, MN

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Are you searching for a family dentist who can cater to the dental needs of your entire family, from kids to teenagers, adults and even seniors? Look no further than Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, leading dentists in North Oaks, MN. We offer comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of transitioning all of your family members to our practice and highlight the value we bring in ensuring your family’s proper dental development.

The All-Inclusive Approach

Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert have earned a stellar reputation for our family-friendly dental practice. Our commitment to providing top-notch care for patients of all ages sets us apart as your go-to family dentists. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we take a comprehensive approach to oral health, including not only detection of decay and periodontal disease, but of growth and development issues, airway issues, sleep issues, and a whole lot more.

Transitioning Children and Teenagers

It’s common for kids to start their dental journey with a pediatric dentist, and this can be appropriate up to a certain age. However, as children grow and develop adult teeth, it becomes essential to transition them to a family-friendly dentist. Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert have the expertise to handle the unique dental needs of kids, teenagers, and young adults, ensuring that their oral health is carefully monitored during crucial stages of development.

Detecting Decay and Ensuring Proper Development

One of the most critical reasons to transition your child or teenager to Eggert Family Dentistry is our ability to detect dental issues early. Untreated cavities can lead to more significant problems in the future. By having your child seen regularly, you can address any decay or orthodontic concerns before they worsen.

Furthermore, ensuring proper dental development during adolescence is crucial. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we pay close attention to tooth alignment, bite issues, and orthodontic needs. Detecting and addressing these concerns early can lead to a smoother and more effective treatment plan, potentially saving you time, money, and discomfort down the road.

We Don’t Want to Scare You, But Check These Out!

This month being Halloween, we want to share a couple patient stories. These are SCARY situations where we wish we could have been introduced to the patients earlier and caught things before they became so serious. Luckily Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth know what to do to help these patients, but prevention is always our goal!

Here is an example of a teenage patient undergoing orthodontics and who was working with a pediatric dentist. Unfortunately, this patient had a cavity that got so deep before Dr. Elizabeth found it that she had to build up a serious amount of the tooth to bring it back to health.

Here is another example of excessive decay. This is a senior citizen who was going regularly to another general dental office, but her decay got so deep, she has to lose an anchorage tooth of her front tooth bridge. The patient has to invest in a new bridge in order to keep her front teeth from going missing.

Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert have seen countless families benefit from their all-encompassing approach to dentistry. It is also so rewarding to see trends in families and to be able to stop disease on the early side by paying attention. Schedule an appointment today for all your family members and experience the difference that dedicated, all-ages dental care can make. We can’t wait to bring your family to ours! 651.482.8412.

From Crowded to Confident – Matthew’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Matthew has been a patient of the practice for nearly 20 years, starting with Dr. Furey and then transitioning to Dr. Jeff.  As a teenager he underwent traditional orthodontics and felt that his teeth were straight.  Unfortunately, like so many, Matthew had periods of not wearing his retainers and his teeth moved over time, especially his lower front teeth.  As Matthew entered his 30’s it was starting to bother him more and he asked Dr. Jeff if Invisalign would be right for him.  Dr. Elizabeth met with Matthew and together, they determined that Invisalign would be able to help bring his smile back to where he was as a teenager.

What was involved?

Dr. Elizabeth sent impressions, photos, and x-rays of Matthew’s teeth to Invisalign where they created a 3D simulation of how his teeth could move with Invisalign treatment.  Matthew was very happy with the simulation, which showed a significant improvement to his crowding.  He decided to move forward with Invisalign.

As part of Matthew’s Invisalign treatment, Dr. Elizabeth included “Bite Ramps” on his aligners because he clenches his teeth very heavily.  Bite ramps prevent patients from being able to bite down completely and clench.  It helps give the muscles a “stop” point and reminds the muscles to stay in a more relaxed position.  Matthew liked his bite ramps as his muscles felt very good while wearing the aligners.

Matthew’s case was expected to consist of 20 aligners that he would wear for 10-14 days at a time.  Matthew was very compliant and consistent in wearing his aligners as instructed and was able to complete his case after the 20 aligners as expected.

What does Matthew think?

Matthew thought it was something he wanted to do because he wanted to straighten his teeth and after looking into Invisalign he decided it was the best option for him.  What he liked most about the process was that it did not take as much time and it wasn’t painful at all!  When asked what he would tell a friend that was considering Invisalign treatment he said he would highly recommend it.  It is definitely an investment in your time and money, but it is worth it!

Matthew’s case was expected to consist of 20 aligners that he would wear for 10-14 days at a time.  Matthew was very compliant and consistent in wearing his aligners as instructed and was able to complete his case after the 20 aligners as expected.

 

Revolutionizing Dental Care with the iTero Scanning Unit at Eggert Family Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

In the northeast suburbs of the Twin Cities, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert of Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, are taking dental care to new heights with the innovative iTero scanning unit. This cutting-edge technology is not only streamlining the process of scanning for Invisalign cases, but also enhancing a wide range of other dental procedures, ensuring patients receive top-notch care in a comfortable and efficient manner.

The Power of iTero:  A Game-Changer in Dental Scanning

Traditional dental impressions were once synonymous with discomfort, gooey molds, and anxious waiting. Fortunately, times are changing. Dental scanning units, like the iTero, are starting to change the way we are able to approach dental care. Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff are now able to use these state-of-the-art scanning units to complete your care, helping to make the patient experience smoother and more precise.

The iTero scanner is a handheld device that uses advanced digital technology to create a 3D model/scan of a patient’s teeth and gums. This can eliminate the need for messy impression materials, while still delivering highly accurate results. The process is non-invasive, comfortable, and efficient, drastically reducing chair time!

Enhancing Invisalign Treatment

At Eggert Family Dentistry, you will see the iTero scanning unit used most often as an invaluable tool for Dr. Elizabeth to scan for her Invisalign cases. Patients seeking orthodontic solutions can now bid farewell to traditional impressions and welcome the iTero experience!

The scanner captures thousands of images per second, allowing her to create a comprehensive digital model of your teeth. This scan/3D model is then used by Invisalign to plan the tooth movements with pinpoint accuracy, ensuring the aligners fit perfectly and deliver optimal results. The iTero technology even allows for us to simulate Invisalign movements during an average recare visit! Ask your hygienist about this today!

Beyond Invisalign:  The Versatility of iTero

While iTero has revolutionized Invisalign treatment, its benefits extend far beyond orthodontics. Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff can utilize the iTero scanning unit in various other dental procedures, such as crowns, bridges, and dental implants. The scanner’s accuracy and precision are essential in ensuring the success of these treatments.

The iTero scanner is particularly advantageous when it comes to the fabrication of restorations like crowns and bridges. With the digital model at their disposal, the doctors can collaborate with dental laboratories more effectively, resulting in restorations that fit seamlessly and look natural.

A Brighter, More Comfortable Future in Dentistry

The iTero scanning unit at Eggert Family Dentistry represents the future of dental care. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert are committed to providing their patients with the best possible experience, and iTero technology plays a vital role in achieving this goal. With this innovative tool, they can offer better dental care, ultimately leading to healthier, happier smiles.

If you’re seeking dental treatment that embraces cutting-edge technology to deliver superior results, look no further than Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN. Call us today for your consultation. We look forward to meeting with you! 651.482.8412.

Root Canal Myths vs. Facts: Debunking Common Misconceptions

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Many patients have a great deal of anxiety around root canals. This is usually because they’ve heard stories over the years about the pain and suffering others have had to undergo before, during, and after their root canal treatments.

Luckily, that’s all they are: stories. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we want to dispel the root canal myths and give you the facts. Without further ado, let’s break down the most common root canal myths so you can put those anxieties to rest and feel good about your upcoming root canal treatment.

6 Common Root Canal Myths

Myth #1: Root Canal Treatment is Painful

Fact: While this may have been true decades ago, we are pleased to report that modern medicine and anesthesia has come a long way since then! As such, a root canal procedure shouldn’t be any more disagreeable than a filling. Furthermore, Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth are very experienced in pain management and will make sure your procedure is as comfortable as possible.

Myth #2: Root Canal Treatment Causes Illness

Fact: Be careful what you read on the internet or see on the streaming networks! This misinformation is based on a poorly researched study conducted about a century ago that claimed root canals could cause illnesses, and has since been debunked. Currently, there is no scientific evidence linking root canal treatment with the development of disease in other parts of the body.

Myth #3: If My Tooth Doesn’t Hurt, I Don’t Need a Root Canal

Fact: While it’s true that most infected teeth cause toothaches, there are cases in which an infected tooth presents with no pain. That’s why it’s important to make regular appointments with Eggert Family Dentistry—Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert are trained to be able to test the tooth and detect when a root canal is needed to save the tooth, even if there is no initial pain.

Myth #4: It’s Better to Pull a Tooth Than Have a Root Canal Treatment

Fact: Saving the natural tooth is always your best option, as no artificial tooth replacement, even implants, will truly be able to look or function as well as a natural tooth. Root canal treatment has a high success rate and once treated, it’s highly likely that your tooth will continue to last a lifetime! Furthermore, root canal procedures only take a couple short appointments, while implants can be a larger time commitment.

Myth #5: Root Canals Remove the Roots of the Tooth

Fact: The root is what anchors your tooth to the jawbone, and so the root is never removed during a root canal treatment. Instead, the infected or inflamed pulp of the tooth is removed so that the root of your tooth can be healthy again.

Myth #6: Root Canals Require Multiple Long Appointments

Fact: At Eggert Family Dentistry, you can expect the entire root canal procedure to take about 90 minutes with a total of two visits. The first visit will be the main root canal procedure, and the second visit will be when we will fit a permanent crown or other restoration to protect the treated tooth and restore your bite.

Need a Root Canal Procedure? Schedule an Appointment

If you believe you have an infected tooth, it’s important that you have it treated as soon as possible to relieve your discomfort and prevent the spread of infection. At Eggert Family Dentistry, our patients enjoy successful, comfortable root canal procedures thanks to the compassionate care of Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert. To schedule an appointment, call our office at 651-482-8412, today!