Eggert Family Dentistry Blog -

My Journey with Adult Orthodontics and Porcelain Veneers – Cathy’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

For over 20 years Cathy has been a loyal patient with Eggert Family Dentistry and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert. Back in 2020 Cathy was having pain and she believed it to be due to her bony ridges growing on her lower right under her tongue. These bony growths are known as tori. Cathy noticed she had more pain in the evening and thought it was getting worse. Typically, tori aren’t dangerous, but they can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. They can also be linked to heavy forces being applied in your mouth. Dr. Elizabeth explained to Cathy that her bone was likely continuing to grow due to the heavy forces her muscles were placing on her teeth and bones. It was at that time that Cathy got serious about considering adult orthodontics because Dr. Elizabeth had mentioned the benefits of correcting her bite in the past and Cathy didn’t want to keep letting her muscles win!

What did Cathy want?

Cathy was not interested in removing the tori but was interested in Invisalign as an option for adult orthodontics. It was determined after a consultation with Dr. DeVoe that conventional braces were a better option for Cathy and so she agreed to follow his professional advice.

What was involved?

During orthodontic treatment, the wear pattern on Cathy’s teeth became more apparent because Dr. DeVoe had to choose whether to align her front teeth at her gum line or at the biting surface. Since Cathy shows a fair amount of gum tissue when she smiles, it was recommended to align the teeth at her gum level and change the tooth shapes with porcelain veneer restorations. Dr. Elizabeth talked with Cathy about how she could elect to only restore her front teeth and about the advantages, including color matching and tooth proportions, of restoring her six anterior teeth.

Cathy decided she wanted to change her tooth color and shape for all six of her front teeth and so Dr. DeVoe and Dr. Elizabeth coordinated her final orthodontic movements to set her up for porcelain veneers.

Cathy wanted whiter teeth so Dr. Elizabeth recommended that Cathy undergo Zoom in-office whitening to brighten all her teeth so the porcelain veneers could be made to the same brighter color. Cathy’s teeth responded well to the Zoom procedure.

Once the whitening was completed, Dr. Elizabeth did a wax-up for Cathy to see what her teeth would look like once the restorations were completed. A wax-up helps you be able to visualize the final outcome. Dr. Elizabeth was also able to do a mock-up of the wax-up in Cathy’s actual mouth, using a plastic material. This really helped Cahty see how the veneers would look before changing her teeth. After only seeing the wax-up, Cathy thought it looked nice, but said “It is hard to know without seeing it in my mouth.” Luckily, doing the mock-up worked and Cathy’s reaction was “Oh wow!” She was very pleased and was ready to move forward with the preparation for the veneers.

What does Cathy think?

When asked what Cathy thought about her restorations before actually proceeding she said, “I was nervous about the prep and what that would be like. I didn’t know how much tooth structure would be there, but I was also excited about correcting the teeth that were uneven.” After all the treatment was completed, she said she is very pleased with her results. When asked what she would say to a friend that has similar issues or is considering getting this type of treatment done she said, “I would say positive things about the outcome! I would let them know about the time frame and the prep appointments. It’s a commitment, but well worth it!”

Thank you Cathy for putting your trust in us! We love your results and look forward to serving you for many years to come!

Revolutionizing Dentistry: The Benefits of iTero Scanning at Eggert Family Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

In the ever-evolving landscape of dentistry, technology continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing patient care and experience. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert have embraced the cutting-edge iTero scanning system, revolutionizing the way dental procedures are conducted. With over a year of experience utilizing this advanced technology, the benefits are abundantly clear, making it an indispensable tool in our practice.

What can iTero do?

One of the most significant advantages of the iTero scanning system is its versatility. Drs. Jeff and Elizabeth Eggert harness its capabilities for a myriad of dental procedures, from Invisalign case scanning to full arch scans for occlusal (night) guards and partial dentures. This versatility streamlines the workflow, allowing for more efficient and precise treatment planning, ultimately leading to better outcomes for our patients.

Furthermore, the iTero scanner eliminates the need for traditional impression materials, which can be uncomfortable and messy. Instead, patients experience a non-invasive, hassle-free scanning process that provides highly accurate digital impressions. This not only enhances patient comfort but also reduces the likelihood of errors, ensuring the success of procedures such as crown and bridge placements. While we aren’t yet able to scan for every procedure, we find we are able to use impression material less and less. We are excited to be attending this year’s Minnesota Dental Association’s dental meeting where Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth as well as Tracy and Heather, our magnificent dental assistants, will take a class about 3D printing capabilities in dentistry to see if we are able to move from traditional stone models to resin-based, printed models for tooth case planning! This would definitely decrease the number of impressions we have to take!

An iTero scan for restorative work, like making a crown.

The ability to see is real!

Beyond its practical applications, the iTero scanning system serves as a powerful educational tool for patients. Our patients love the ability to visualize their dental anatomy in real-time because it fosters a deeper understanding of their oral health and treatment options. Drs. Jeff and Elizabeth Eggert can effectively communicate treatment plans, demonstrating the potential outcomes with greater clarity, leading to informed decision-making and increased patient satisfaction. Our assistants, Tracy and Heather, have become scanning professionals and our hygienists are experimenting and learning the skill as well. As our hygienists continue to practice, they will be able to add a scan to your occasional recare visit to help us better understand changes over time of recession and wear!

Here’s an example of how iTero can do a simulation of how the teeth may move with Invisalign treatment.

Moreover, the digital nature of iTero scans enables seamless collaboration between dental professionals. Whether consulting with specialists or dental laboratories, the ability to share accurate digital impressions facilitates a higher level of precision and efficiency in treatment planning and execution. This collaborative approach ensures that our patients receive the best possible care, with all aspects of their treatment meticulously coordinated.

Ask for your scan today!

The adoption of the iTero scanning system at Eggert Family Dentistry represents a significant leap forward in dental technology. Drs. Jeff and Elizabeth Eggert leverage its versatility, accuracy, and educational capabilities to enhance every aspect of patient care. As they continue to harness the power of this innovative technology, our patients can rest assured knowing that they are receiving the highest standard of dental treatment available. Ask your hygienist or dental assistant if there is time at your appointment to take advantage of a free iTero scan for your mouth. Call us today at 651-482-8412 to stay on track with your dental care and schedule your next recare visit!

Protecting Your Smile: Understanding Acidity and Dental Decay

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Acidity in food and drinks is not just a concern for your digestive system; it also poses a significant threat to your dental health. When you consume acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits, sodas, and vinegar-based dressings, the acid attacks the enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth. Over time, this erosion weakens the enamel, leading to dental decay, cavities, and other oral health issues.

How to learn more about acidity?

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert are passionate about educating our patients about the harmful effects of acidity on dental health. By raising awareness about the link between acidity and tooth decay and tooth wear, we empower our patients to make informed choices about your diet and lifestyle. Armed with this knowledge, you can use your cell phone to easily access information about the acidity levels of various foods and drinks, helping you make healthier choices to protect your smile. Such an easy use of amazing technology! (And, maybe a nice way to keep your kids researching with their phones instead of always just playing games!)

What is pH?

The pH scale measures acidity, with lower pH values indicating higher acidity. You can utilize smartphone apps or online resources to look up the pH levels of different foods and beverages. One popular cell phone app that helps users learn about the acidity in their foods and beverages is “pH Scale & Acid Test.” This app provides a comprehensive database of pH values for a wide range of foods and drinks, allowing you to easily look up the acidity levels of various items.

Additionally, the app often includes user-friendly features such as color-coded ratings to indicate the acidity level of each item, making it simple for you to make informed choices about your diet and oral health. By choosing options with lower acidity (pH levels of 7 or more), such as water or milk, instead of highly acidic choices like soda or citrus juices, you can minimize the risk of enamel erosion and dental decay.

Here is a chart showing many acidic food and drink choices.

The growing popularity of “sour” candy

You may not realize, but sucking and chewing sour candies has become a popular and seemingly harmless treat, especially among young children. The American Dental Association and the Minnesota Dental Association started a campaign in 2008 called “The Power of Sour” to help educate against this type of treat. Unfortunately, the popularity of sour candy keeps increasing and many adults have now jumped in on this trend. The acidity of these candies is increasing all the erosive tooth wear we see here at Eggert Family Dentistry. Teeth with acidic erosion will often look discolored, taking on a brown, yellow, or grey appearance. Teeth can also look sharp or rounded, depending on where the acid attack is occurring the mouth.

The following chart gives examples of popular sour candies.

We’re here to help!

In addition to empowering patients with dietary guidance, Eggert Family Dentistry employs advanced technology to detect dental decay at its earliest stages. Enhanced radiographic technology, including digital radiograph sensors and a state-of-the-art CBCT machine, allows Drs. Jeff and Elizabeth Eggert to identify even the smallest signs of decay before they become more serious issues. Early detection enables prompt intervention, preserving tooth structure and preventing the need for more extensive treatments down the line.

By combining patient education with cutting-edge diagnostic tools, Eggert Family Dentistry prioritizes preventive care and early intervention in the fight against dental decay from acid attack! Drs. Jeff and Elizabeth Eggert are committed to helping you maintain healthy smiles for years to come, emphasizing the importance of acidity awareness and regular dental recare visits and check-ups. With proactive measures and informed choices, you can safeguard your dental health and help us fulfill our motto of providing “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles!” Call us today to ask your acidic food and drink questions! 651-482-8412.

Understanding Laser Dentistry: How Does It Work and What Can It Treat?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Just like all technology, dentistry has changed over the years. Laser dentistry, introduced in 1994, is an exciting industry advancement. While laser dentistry isn’t a substitution for drills and cutting tools in most scenarios, it’s the perfect complement to traditional methods and boasts many benefits!

What is laser dentistry?

A laser is a beam of focused light that emits energy to cut or vaporize matter. There are two common types of lasers used in dentistry: hard-tissue lasers and soft-tissue lasers.

How does laser dentistry work?

Hard-tissue lasers cut through bone and can sometimes cut through teeth. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert have experimented with these hard-tissue lasers and find they take extra time to prepare a tooth for a filling and can be slow to remove decay. We choose not to use hard-tissue lasers in our practice because we know time is important to our patients.

Soft-tissue lasers have even more practical functions for dentistry! Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert use soft-tissue lasers to reshape gums and vaporize diseased tissue. They also use lasers to lengthen crowns for better access to a tooth’s structure or for cosmetic purposes, such as reducing a “gummy” smile. If you’re dealing with sensitive teeth, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert may use a soft-tissue laser to seal dentin tubules in your tooth, eliminating that sensitivity. At Eggert Family Dentistry, soft-tissue lasers are also used to perform biopsies, remove benign oral tumors, remove lesions in the mouth, and expose partially erupted molars.

What are the benefits of laser dentistry?

After its introduction in the mid-90s, laser dentistry has been widely adopted by dentists and prized by patients for its many benefits.

Benefits include:

Less pain: Because laser dentistry is minimally invasive, patients generally experience less pain and discomfort after the procedure.

Less bleeding: Laser light energy has a natural clotting effect, reducing bleeding and swelling and accelerating soft-tissue healing. In many cases, sutures are not required following a laser dentistry procedure!

Less damage or irritation to surrounding tissues: Because lasers facilitate utmost precision, tissues around surgical areas remain undisturbed.

Less fear: Lasers are silent and minimally invasive, making them a particularly great choice for children who can be intimidated by the noise and pressure of a drill.

Enhanced effects from teeth whitening procedures: When you see Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert for professional teeth whitening, they may a laser to speed up the whitening process.

If you would like to learn more about our laser dentistry services or other new and exciting dental technology here at Eggert Family Dentistry, give us a call at 651.482.8412. We would love to tell you about how we use laser technology to benefit our patients!

Replacing My Old “Cap” – Marcia’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Marcia is a loyal long-time patient of Dr. Elizabeth Eggert’s since she started Eggert Family Dentistry in 2005. Marcia has had multiple crowns placed by Dr. Elizabeth over the years. For many years, Marcia talked with Dr. Elizabeth about the discoloration she noticed on her front tooth. Marcia had a history of a root canal and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown on her upper left front tooth and the metal caused a discoloration at her gumline after it had been in place a few years.

For many years, PFM crowns were commonly used in dentistry for the repair of damaged teeth. PFM crowns have good mechanical properties, are strong and stand up well to oral forces, they look decent, and the gingival tissues tolerate them fairly well. However, Marcia’s front crown looked dark to her from the metal substructure of the crown and it bothered her for many years. She told us “I have a nice smile, but that cap is always what I see first.”

What did Marcia want?

Marcia wanted her smile to be more consistent. She didn’t want her front tooth to stick out. She noticed the discoloration and also felt anxious because she felt that her mouth was small and she had trouble when it came to having dental treatment done. She was very concerned that any changes she might make would not look as good as what she currently had in her mouth.

What was involved?

Dr. Elizabeth used photos and x-rays of Marcia’s teeth along with the results of a thorough muscle and joint evaluation to develop Marcia’s plan. The details of the records process revealed that Marcia would benefit from Invisalign before any changes to her front tooth because of the crowding of her surrounding front teeth that contributed to the shadowing and discoloration. Part of the reason that Marcia noticed the front crowned tooth first is that the tooth was in a prominent position. Invisalign would eliminate the crowding, improve the tooth display in her smile and provide a smooth surface for the upper teeth to bite and chew by eliminating the crowding of the lower teeth. Dr. Elizabeth suspected that Marcia’s bite was currently putting her teeth at higher risk and was probably at least part of the reason Marcia had needed a number of crowns and root canals over the years.

Dr. Elizabeth and Marcia decided that Invisalign would be first in order to improve her crowding and her bite and then would be best to then replace the crown on her upper front left tooth as well as veneer 4 other front teeth that also had anterior wear and chipping. Marcia also underwent the Zoom bleaching procedure to help brighten her teeth that were not getting new restorations.

What does Marcia think?

Marcia said that she was nervous when it came to the restorations and was afraid what would be revealed under the existing PFM crown on her upper left front tooth, but it had to be done if she wanted to change her smile. “Even though it took a fair amount of time, you guys were awesome! I would do it again because I like the result.” She was very happy that she did it and wished she would have done it 20 years ago! Marcia would tell someone that was considering getting this done that it is really worth it. “Don’t wait, just do it.”

Congratulations on your amazing results Marcia and thank you for putting your trust in us! We were delighted to help you through this journey and look forward to working with you and your family for many years to come!

Crown Longevity: How to Make Your Dental Crown Investment Last

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Teeth take a lot of wear and tear and over time, can become fractured, cracked, and decayed. Early intervention is the best way to save your tooth and prevent more serious issues. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert often recommend dental crowns for patients with these tooth issues. As we all know, any good investment is worth protecting, and crowns are no exception. It’s important to be proactive to ensure crown longevity.

What is a dental crown, and how does it work?

Before we get into details about how to care for your dental crown, let’s start by discussing what a crown is, how it’s created, and how it protects your tooth.

Although they can be fashioned from ceramic, metal, or a combination of the two, porcelain is the most popular and arguably the most effective material dentists use for crowns today. Porcelain is durable, feels the most natural, and is easily matched to the shade of your other teeth. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert agree that all-porcelain crowns are the best overall choice nearly all of the time.

After Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert removes any tooth decay and reshapes your tooth, they will take a digital image or putty impression. In most cases, your crown can be created the same day at our office using the CEREC scan. Occasionally, we will need to send your impression to a dental lab, for the fabrication of your crown and you will return to our office in a couple of weeks for the placement. In this case, you’ll leave your first visit with a temporary crown and instructions for proper care.

Think about your dental crown as a protective helmet for your tooth. It fits intimately on top of your compromised tooth and is securely cemented in place. It looks and acts just like a natural tooth.

In addition to supporting weak or decaying teeth, crowns:

Help hold dental bridges in place
Cover severely stained or discolored teeth
Protect a tooth after root canal treatment is completed to keep the tooth from splitting
Are part of the system to restore a dental implant when you’re missing a tooth

With proper care, your crown should last a decade or more!

How can I take care of my dental crown to ensure crown longevity?

We’ve already established that crowns are highly durable and, among other things, help strengthen weak teeth. But although they’re durable, they’re not indestructible. Here are some important steps you can take to get the most life out of your dental crown:

1. Keep up with daily dental care.

The importance of daily brushing and flossing cannot be underestimated. Plaque can still form on crowns! Brushing and flossing twice daily helps remove sticky plaque before it builds up and keeps your teeth looking their best. It also removes food particles that get trapped between the crown and the gumline, causing plaque build-up that leads to gingivitis or decay and can aid in crown longevity.

2. Avoid chewy, sticky, hard foods.

Do you like to crunch on ice or chew hard candies? Just like natural teeth, crowns can crack under extreme pressure. Even healthy foods like popcorn with kernels and pistachios in the shell can cause undue damage to your dental crown. Taffies, caramel apples, and other sticky foods can loosen your crown, making it easy for food particles to get underneath and cause decay. In some instances, chewy foods can dislodge crowns completely. If this happens, call our office right away!

3. Minimize acidic and sugary foods.

Acidic and sugary foods will erode enamel, but even if your tooth is protected with the porcelain of a dental crown, these substances can still easily cause decay and damage the tooth under your crown.

If you choose to indulge in these foods, make sure you are using impeccable dental hygiene at home and it is super important that you maintain a regular recare schedule with us at Eggert Family Dentistry so we can discover any compromise early and before major damage occurs..

On a side note, acidic and sugary foods will cause enamel to wear thin, resulting in tooth discoloration and darkening. Because your dental crown is color-matched to your natural teeth at the time of application, discoloration of your natural teeth will create a contrast between those and your crown and detract from its natural appearance.

4. Wear a night guard if you’re prone to teeth-grinding.

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is detrimental to your teeth in several ways. In addition to headaches and a sore, tired jaw, bruxism can wear down enamel and even cause teeth to crack or chip. Although molars can withstand 200 lbs of pressure from regular biting and chewing, they have their limit and so do dental crowns. Fortunately, wearing a night guard can protect your natural teeth and promote crown longevity. If you think you may need a night guard, talk with Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert about that at your next recare visit.

5. Prioritize your recare visits at Eggert Family Dentistry.

Your oral health is our first priority. In addition to a tooth cleaning by our magnificent hygienists, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert will closely examine your teeth for any early signs of cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. They will also perform annual x-rays, which can help spot early signs of infection and they will treat your teeth with fluoride to help remineralize them and prevent cavities. And, a recare visit wouldn’t be complete without a thorough inspection of any existing dental work, including dental crowns, to make sure they’re intact and functioning properly.

When it comes to oral health, prevention is always the best approach. If you haven’t been keeping up with your recare visits or have any dental concerns, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert are happy to see you in our office. Call Eggert Family Dentistry at 651.482.8412 to schedule your next appointment.

How Long Can You Expect Your Dental Crown to Last?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Dental crowns are a popular solution for restoring damaged or weakened teeth, providing both strength and aesthetic appeal. One common question patients ask us nearly every day is: How long will my dental crown last? While the longevity of a crown can vary depending on various factors, including materials used and oral hygiene practices, it’s generally expected that a well-maintained crown can last for many years, sometimes even decades.

Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert of Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, understand the importance of creating durable and long-lasting dental crowns. Their commitment to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail ensures that patients receive crowns that are built to withstand the test of time. By using the latest technology and highest quality materials, emax or zirconia porcelain crowns, they can create crowns that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth and provide exceptional durability.

What Are Some Reasons Crowns Need to be Replaced?

It’s essential to note that the lifespan of a dental crown also depends on the patient’s oral hygiene habits and lifestyle choices. Even the most well-crafted crown can fail prematurely if not properly cared for. That’s why Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert emphasize the importance of good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. By brushing and flossing daily and visiting our office for routine cleanings and exams, patients can significantly extend the lifespan of their dental crowns.

Additionally, patients should be mindful of habits that could potentially damage their crowns, such as chewing on hard objects or using their teeth as tools. These actions can put undue stress on the crown and increase the risk of cracks or fractures. By avoiding these habits and practicing good oral care, patients can maximize the longevity of their dental crowns and minimize the need for costly repairs or replacements.

Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth most often see crowns needing to be replaced due to decay. Unfortunately, even though a crown protects a tooth, there is still a lot of tooth structure present that can decay if subjected to the sugars and acids that attack teeth and cause cavities. Dry mouth, or lack of saliva, also is a huge culprit for decay so patients that have dry mouth should be sure to talk to us about methods that can help. Occasionally, crowns will fracture just like teeth do. Typically this occurs more often in patients with unstable bite forces or who tend to put a lot of pressure on their teeth.

What Happens to Replace a Crown?

In cases where a crown does need to be replaced, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert offer comprehensive solutions tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether it’s due to normal wear and tear or unexpected damage, they utilize their expertise and advanced techniques, like our CEREC same-day crown fabrication techniques, to ensure a seamless and comfortable restoration process. Replacing a crown is similar to undergoing the crown procedure the first time. We will get the area numbed up for comfort and carefully remove the old crown, remove any decay, and prepare the tooth for the new crown. With our dedication to patient satisfaction and long-term oral health, Eggert Family Dentistry is committed to helping patients enjoy the benefits of their dental crowns for years to come.

Have More Questions About Crowns? Call Us Today!

While the exact lifespan of a dental crown can vary, patients can expect their crowns to last for many years with proper care and maintenance. By choosing a reputable dental practice like Eggert Family Dentistry and following our guidance on oral hygiene and lifestyle habits, patients can enjoy the functional and aesthetic benefits of their crowns for as long as possible. Remember, a healthy smile starts with good habits and regular dental care. Call us today at 651-482-8412 to set up your next appointment.

Exploring the Fascinating History of Dental Crowns

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Have you ever wondered about the origins of dental crowns? It’s a fascinating journey through time, starting centuries ago when people first sought solutions for damaged or missing teeth. We here at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, thought it might be fun to delve into the rich history of dental crowns and share it with you.

Early History

The concept of dental crowns dates back to ancient times, with evidence suggesting that civilizations like the Etruscans and Egyptians used various materials to restore teeth as early as 200 AD. However, it was not until the 19th century that the modern dental crown as we know it began to take shape. Sir Isaac Newton suggested using gold as a material for dental restorations in the 17th century, laying the groundwork for future innovations in dental crown technology.

Over the years, dental crown materials have evolved significantly. From gold and amalgam to porcelain and ceramic, dentists have experimented with a wide range of materials to achieve the perfect balance of durability, esthetics, and biocompatibility. Today, all-ceramic crowns are among the most popular choices due to their natural appearance and strength, however, porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crowns are still a popular choice after their introduction in the 1970’s.

What Makes These Materials Great for Replacing Teeth?

Porcelain and ceramic crowns closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth, blending seamlessly with your smile. Additionally, they are highly durable and resistant to stains, making them ideal for long-term use. Porcelain is a very good substitute for the enamel found on natural teeth both for esthetic properties and strength. Porcelain fused to metal crowns combine the strength of metal with the esthetics of porcelain, offering a versatile solution for various dental needs. Gold crowns are just that, crowns made completely out of gold metal. While they don’t look as natural as a porcelain crown due to their gold color, gold crowns have stood the test of time with their high durability and biocompatibility. The main issue with gold or PFM crowns now is the metal has gotten so expensive that these materials can no longer keep up with all the benefits of all porcelain crowns.

How Are Crowns Fabricated?

When it comes to fabricating dental crowns, there are two main methods: in-office fabrication or dental lab fabrication. To make a crown in-office, we using technologies like CEREC (a CAD/CAM technology), that allows for same-day crowns, providing convenience and efficiency for patients. Crowns made in a dental lab are typically made from impressions or scans taken by Dr. Elizabeth or Dr. Jeff and then the lab is able to make the crown with their highly specialized equipment.

Whether fabricated in a dental lab or in the office, dental crowns play a crucial role in restoring and enhancing smiles. From their humble beginnings in ancient civilizations to the advanced materials and techniques used today, dental crowns continue to evolve, offering patients durable and esthetically pleasing solutions for dental restorations. So the next time you flash your smile, remember the rich history behind those beautiful crowns! Call Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert at Eggert Family Dentistry today for your next dental crown. 651.482.8412.

The Need to Replace a Restoration on a Front Tooth – Arlene’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Arlene is a patient of Dr. Elizabeth’s and suffered trauma to her front tooth over 40 years ago. Because of the history of trauma, the tooth had a crown placed about the same time as the accident. Over time restorations wear and tear and it is common that they have to be replaced. The crown on her front tooth had been replaced once in 40 years and because of decay, it needed replacement again. Insurance companies will tell you that an average lifespan of a dental crown is 5 years. However, at Eggert Family Dentistry, we find that most commonly our crowns are lasting 15-20 years, assuming proper maintenance. Proper maintenance means daily flossing and twice daily brushing, avoiding decay causing food and drink, and keeping forces on the teeth reasonable and even. As a crown ages, the potential for problems gets greater and greater. An aging crown can decay, break, or wear out. Dr. Elizabeth was concerned about the decay starting on Arlene’s tooth under her crown and recommended a new crown.

What was involved?

In this case, and all cases involving only one restoration of front teeth, color matching can be the most difficult thing. Arlene has crowding of her front teeth and her biting forces are not even, this also complicated her case. Dr. Elizabeth talked about the pros and cons of doing more than one crown for color matching and to give the illusion of straighter teeth. Dr. Elizabeth also talked with Arlene about changing her bite and alignment with orthodontics. Arlene was not interested in these treatment options and elected to only replace the one crown. She understood that the color may not match perfectly and was willing to take that chance. She had also been living with an existing crown that was lighter in shade than her natural teeth because it had been done at a time in her life where the other teeth were lighter in color too.

After removing the existing crown on Arlene’s front tooth, Dr. Elizabeth noticed that the decay was much more extensive than she originally thought. Dr. Elizabeth had to help Arlene understand her options, which included:

keeping her original tooth and only adding a new crown
having a root canal completed and a post added for retention of a new crown
having the tooth extracted and an implant or bridge placed.

It was important to Arlene that her original tooth stay in her mouth, but she didn’t like the thought that the tooth didn’t have much retention due to the extent of the decay and that it was at risk of breaking at the gumline if she chose the crown alone. Arlene needed some time to think about her options so Dr. Elizabeth made a temporary crown while Arlene had appointments with a root canal specialist and an oral surgeon to learn more about her other options.

After careful consideration, Arlene elected to attempt to save the tooth over an extraction and implant, and had the root canal treatment completed in order to allow for a post that would add better retention for Arlene’s new crown.

To help with the color matching of this single restoration against Arlene’s natural teeth, Arlene made a trip to the dental lab for a custom shade appointment. She thought it was just a “delightful” experience.

What does Arlene think?

Arlene was expecting to simply replace her existing crown. She didn’t anticipate running into complications so she noted that the whole process took longer than she would have liked, but she was happy that it “definitely took less time than getting an implant!”

She is very happy to have her natural tooth and hopes it will last for many more years. She knows to be careful with the tooth and use it guardingly when biting into foods like carrots, apples, pizza crusts, and anything else she might eat in the end-to-end position.

Arlene is lucky to still have her tooth after it was traumatized over 40 years ago! Her story is just one of many others who have also experienced magnificent results with Dr. Eggert at Eggert Family Dentistry of North Oaks. Crowns can yield beautiful and predictable results for accomplishing an improved smile! At Eggert Family Dentistry, we love providing “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles” – thanks Arlene for trusting us to help you continue to smile big and confidently.

Our Latest Technology Working for You! Eggert Family Dentistry Adds CBCT

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, we’re excited to announce a groundbreaking addition to our practice: Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) technology. This state-of-the-art equipment revolutionizes the way we diagnose and treat dental conditions, offering unparalleled insights into patients’ oral health. With the recent installation of the Carestream CS 9600 CBCT, we’re poised to enhance our ability to evaluate infections, assess the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and analyze the airway with unprecedented clarity and precision.

CBCT technology represents a significant advancement in dental imaging, providing detailed 3D images of the teeth, jawbone, nerve canals, bone levels, and surrounding structures. Unlike traditional dental X-rays, which offer a two-dimensional view, CBCT scans offer a comprehensive and detailed three-dimensional (3D) perspective, enabling us to identify issues that may not be visible through conventional imaging methods.

What Sets CBCT Apart?

One of the key features of the Carestream CS 9600 CBCT is its high image resolution, which allows for superior visualization of anatomical structures with minimal distortion. This level of clarity is invaluable in diagnosing complex dental conditions and planning precise treatment strategies tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

With this advanced technology at our disposal, we’re better equipped to evaluate and diagnose a wide range of dental issues, including infections, impacted teeth, jaw abnormalities, and even sinus problems. Additionally, the CBCT scan provides valuable insights into the TMJ, helping us identify signs of dysfunction and develop targeted treatment plans to alleviate discomfort and restore proper function.

As part of our commitment to providing exceptional care, we’re pleased to offer CBCT scans to all patients undergoing our Records Process in 2024 at no additional charge (a $435 value!). By integrating CBCT technology into our practice, we aim to elevate the standard of care and ensure that each patient receives the most accurate diagnosis and effective treatment possible.

CBCT technology has been evolving for many years. We are lucky to now be able to share this with you and continue our commitment to being “State of the Art.” The introduction of Cone Beam CT technology represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance patient care and outcomes at Eggert Family Dentistry. With the Carestream CS 9600 CBCT, we’re able to leverage cutting-edge imaging capabilities to deliver personalized, precision-driven dental care that prioritizes patient comfort, safety, and overall well-being. We look forward to utilizing this advanced technology to transform smiles and improve lives in our community. If you want to experience all that has to offer, ask Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert at your next recare appointment. Or, if you’ve been putting off undergoing the Records Process, here is your chance to really learn all that you can about your oral health. Call us today at 651-482-8412!