Eggert Family Dentistry Blog -

Healing After Oral Surgery: What To Expect and How To Speed Up Recovery

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Oral and maxillofacial surgery can help correct disease, injury, or defects in the hard and soft tissues. But for proper healing and lasting results, a successful recovery from surgery is essential.

Here, we’re sharing some practical tips for healing after oral surgery—including pain management, diet, and oral hygiene—to help you have a smooth recovery.

What To Expect When Healing From Oral Surgery

Within the first few days after surgery, you can expect to experience some or all of the following:

Intermittent bleeding and oozing from the surgical site for up to 24 hours (possibly longer if you are taking blood thinning medication).
Pain or discomfort. It’s normal to feel more soreness on day two or three after surgery than on the day of surgery itself. In most cases, pain should reach its peak within 48-72 hours, then gradually begin to improve.
Nausea. Pain medications may cause nausea. Taking them with food and sipping on carbonated beverages can help.
Swelling at or near the surgical site. This can last for several days—swelling typically peaks around the 48-hour mark, then begins to improve.

If you experience these symptoms within the timeframes listed, please know that this is normal and should improve as you heal. Keep reading for tips to manage these symptoms, as well as what symptoms to watch for that could indicate a need to contact Eggert Family Dentistry.

Pain Management and Swelling Control

Most oral and maxillofacial surgery will be accompanied by some pain or discomfort. In many cases, some form of pain reliever will be prescribed or recommended during your recovery period.

This could be an over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin; or a prescribed stronger pain medication. In either case, make sure to follow the instructions from our office for how much medication to take, and when and how long to take it. Note that it is rare that we would prescribe a narcotic medication, however, if prescribed, this medication will cause impaired judgment and reflexes, so you will need to avoid driving or operating other heavy machinery while you’re taking it.

Swelling is another part of the body’s normal reaction to oral surgery. It should gradually decrease within five days. In the meantime, keeping your head elevated with extra pillows when lying down can help minimize swelling. You can also apply ice packs or cold compresses to your face during the first 48-72 hours (30 minutes on/30 minutes off). After that point, a warm compress (30 minutes on/30 minutes off) can be used until the swelling subsides.

Smart Eating: Post-Surgery Diet Tips

While it may be more difficult to eat after surgery, eating regular nutritious meals will give your body the fuel it needs to recover.

For the first 24 hours, stick to cool or room-temperature liquids and soft foods, such as:

Ginger ale, milk, or other cool beverages
Milkshakes or Protein shakes
Mashed potatoes (cooled)
Soup (cooled)
Oatmeal (cooled)
Yogurt or Jell-O^® (without fruit pieces)
Ice cream, sherbet, or frozen yogurt (without fruit, nuts, or other hard or chewy pieces)
Apple sauce or other pureed food

This is not an exhaustive list—it’s just meant to give you an idea of what kinds of foods are best. Stick to cool or room temperature beverages and foods until all numbness wears off. In addition, avoid foods that contain nuts, seeds, rice, corn, or chips, as well as those that are hot, spicy, tough, or chewy.

When chewing, chew softly and away from your surgical site. Make sure you’re also drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. After the first 24 hours, you can gradually begin to add in more solid foods and warmed foods and beverages.

Dental Hygiene While Healing After Oral Surgery

Maintaining good dental care while recovering from oral surgery will help you avoid infection and ensure your surgery site heals properly.

On the day of surgery, you will likely have gauze pads in your mouth to help stop the bleeding. Change these gauze pads regularly until the bleeding stops or slows to a minimum. The day after surgery, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water three or four times per day for a couple of days. You should also start gently brushing your teeth with a manual toothbrush beginning the day after surgery, taking care to avoid the surgery site.

Note: The dental care instructions you receive may vary depending on the type of surgery. Make sure to always follow the instructions given by Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert.

Tips for a Speedy Recovery

While recovery from oral surgery will take time, there are a few simple things you can do to ease pain and swelling, prevent infection, and speed up your recovery time.

Rest. This is one of the most important elements of recovery. Your body is working hard to heal itself, so you need to support it with plenty of rest. Try to take it easy for at least the first 48-72 hours.
Take medication as directed. If we prescribe a pain reliever, antibiotics, or anti-nausea medication, take it as directed, for as long as directed.
Keep your head elevated. For the first day or two, keep your head slightly elevated when you’re lying down to help reduce pain, swelling, and bleeding.
Use cold and warm compresses. For the first 48-72 hours, apply an ice pack or cold compress to your face near the surgical site for about 30 minutes at a time to help bring down swelling. If you develop bruising within the few days after surgery, applying a warm compress can help speed up the healing process.
Avoid heavy lifting, pushing, pulling, and exercising for at least a week after surgery.
Don’t use a straw and don’t spit for a week after surgery, as these actions may disrupt the blood clot in the surgical site and cause bleeding.
Avoid smoking and alcohol for a week after surgery. Smoking restricts blood flow, and alcohol can conflict with your medication. Both will delay healing.
Attend all your follow-up appointments and follow all instructions given to you after your surgery to ensure you heal well and avoid complications.

When To Contact Eggert Family Dentistry

As you heal after your oral surgery, there are a few symptoms you should watch for that could indicate a problem:

Persistent pain, swelling, or nausea that lasts longer than your post-op instructions state
Pain that radiates to other areas of the jaw, teeth, or ear. This could indicate a dry socket (loss of the blood clot in the surgical site) and needs to be addressed
Fever or pus. This could signify an infection
Heavy bleeding or bleeding that continues for more than 24 hours
Rash, itching, or trouble swallowing or breathing. This could indicate an allergic reaction to your anesthetic or your antibiotics

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact Eggert Family Dentistry right away. Prompt care can prevent any complications and get you back on the road to recovery.

If you have an upcoming oral surgery or questions about recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Eggert Family Dentistry. We’re here to help you heal comfortably—and get back to your best smile!

Managing Dry Mouth: What You Should Know About Medication Side Effects

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Do you ever notice your mouth feeling unusually dry, sticky, or uncomfortable? If so, you’re not alone—and your medications might be to blame. You may not always link the medications you’re taking with the uncomfortable feeling of a dry mouth, but it’s a real connection. Hundreds of commonly prescribed and over-the-counter drugs list dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, as a side effect. These medications often include antidepressants, antihistamines, blood pressure medications, muscle relaxants, decongestants, and even certain pain relievers. When you take more than one of these medications, the drying effects can compound, leaving your mouth feeling parched throughout the day.

When your mouth stays dry for long periods, it’s not just a discomfort—it can lead to serious dental trouble. You’re more prone to cavities, decay, gum disease, and mouth infections. You may also notice difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking, and an increased tendency for bad breath. Saliva plays a crucial role in protecting your teeth by washing away food particles, neutralizing acids, and supporting enamel remineralization.

If you’re dealing with medication-related dry mouth, there are several steps you can take to help minimize its effects. Start by staying hydrated throughout the day and sipping water frequently. Sugar-free gums and lozenges that contain xylitol can help stimulate saliva flow. Using a humidifier at night can add moisture to the air and reduce dryness while you sleep. Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco products can also help prevent further dryness. Additionally, specialized mouth rinses and gels formulated for dry mouth can provide much-needed relief and help protect your teeth.

Here’s a quick breakdown of some over-the-counter products that could help:

Biotène Dry Mouth Oral Rinse: Alcohol-free rinsing formula for immediate soothing relief.
Biotène OralBalance Moisturizing Gel: A gel designed for more moderate to severe dryness; great overnight.
Biotène Dry Mouth Moisturizing Spray: Handy spray for on-the-go moisture support.
OraCoat XyliMelts Dry Mouth Discs: Adhesive discs that stick to the gum or tooth and release xylitol to stimulate saliva.
ACT Dry Mouth Lozenges: Sugar-free lozenges containing xylitol to freshen breath and promote saliva.
TheraBreath Dry Mouth Oral Rinse: Another rinse option for dryness plus breath freshening.
XyliMelts Dry Mouth Discs: Similar to the OraCoat version; good for night or when you’re lying down, but if Dr. Elizabeth is feeling especially dry from talking to patients all day long, she will use these during the day and they work wonderfully!
SmartMouth Dry Mouth DualAction Mints: Dual-action mints with xylitol and zinc for day-time moisture and fresh breath.

How Eggert Family Dentistry Helps You

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert understand how frustrating and damaging dry mouth can be and how it can impact your smile over time. If you’re suffering from reduced saliva flow, we’ll work with you to identify contributing medications, recommend preventive treatments and monitor your oral health closely. We will recommend personalized solutions—such as prescription-strength fluoride treatments or other preventive care products. Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert also use advanced restorative techniques, like fillings and crowns, to repair and protect teeth that have suffered decay due to dry mouth, helping you maintain a healthy, comfortable smile.

You don’t have to live with the discomfort or damage caused by dry mouth. By working closely with Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff Eggert, you can take control of your oral health and find relief that fits your unique needs. Schedule your appointment with Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN today to discuss your symptoms, review your medications, and explore effective solutions to keep your mouth healthy and hydrated. Call us today at 651.482.8412.

Xerostomia: What It Is and How to Manage It

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Most people experience a dry mouth after a restless night’s sleep or a salty meal. Usually, a glass of water is all it takes to feel better. But when that dry, sticky feeling doesn’t go away, it may be a sign of xerostomia—the medical term for chronic dry mouth. In fact, nearly 1 in 5 people worldwide deal with it everyday. While dry mouth might just sound like an inconvenience, ongoing dry mouth can actually impact your teeth, your comfort, and even your overall health.

Why Does Dry Mouth Happen?

Dry mouth often occurs when your salivary glands don’t make enough saliva. Saliva may not seem important, but it’s essential for washing away food particles, protecting your teeth, and keeping your mouth comfortable.

A number of things can interfere with saliva production. Common factors include:

Medications: Many prescriptions including blood pressure meds, antidepressants, and allergy medications list “dry mouth” as a side effect. Cancer treatments can also restrict saliva flow.

Medical conditions: Diabetes and autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren’s syndrome increase the likelihood of dry mouth.

Lifestyle factors: Smoking, alcohol, excess caffeine, or even chronic mouth breathing can contribute to dry mouth.

Sometimes the cause is clear. Other times, it takes a bit of detective work to determine the underlying cause. Even being a chronic mouth breather can be a very likely reason for lack of saliva.

Saliva Plays an Important Role

It’s easy to underestimate saliva. After all, it’s mostly water. However, it contains small amounts of proteins, electrolytes, and enzymes and performs some important jobs. Saliva…

Keeps your teeth strong by supplying minerals like calcium, phosphate, and fluoride
Neutralizes acids so enamel doesn’t erode
Protects your gums and oral tissues from injury and infection
Helps you chew, swallow, and taste food

When saliva production or quantity is low, acids linger, bacteria thrive, and oral tissues dry out and become vulnerable to infection.

Signs You Might Be Dealing With Xerostomia

Dry mouth may start as a mild annoyance, but over time it can cause bigger problems. You might notice constant dryness or stickiness in your mouth, a rough or dry tongue, cracked lips, or sores at the corners of your mouth. It can make chewing, swallowing, and speaking uncomfortable, change the way food tastes, and increase the risk of cavities, gum disease, and oral infections like thrush. For people with dentures, braces, or mouthguards, it can lead to sore spots because there isn’t adequate saliva to cushion the mouth. Xerostomia can also cause bad breath and impact a person’s self-confidence and enjoyment of everyday life.

How We Help Patients at Eggert Family Dentistry

At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert know that dry mouth isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s a health issue that can have some serious consequences. That’s why we address it from several angles:

Prevention and detection: Regular checkups allow us to spot early signs of xerostomia and any emerging complications. We use digital x-rays and photographs to show you exactly what’s happening.

Treatment options: From fluoride treatments to protect vulnerable teeth, to saliva substitutes or prescription medications that stimulate saliva production, we tailor care to your unique situation.

Collaboration: When systemic conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disorders may be involved, we coordinate with your physician to make sure you’re supported on all fronts.

Education and coaching: We help you identify whether medications, health conditions, or habits could be contributing to dry mouth, and share strategies you can try at home to combat the issue. Alongside in-office treatments, patients often find relief when they:

Sip water frequently throughout the day and keep a glass handy at night
Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free lozenges to stimulate saliva flow
Use a humidifier in the bedroom to use while sleeping
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco, which tend to dry out the mouth
Choose gentle oral care products (like alcohol-free mouthwash and fluoride toothpaste)

Don’t Ignore Signs of Dry Mouth

It’s tempting to brush off dry chronic mouth as a minor annoyance, but over time it can significantly affect your health and comfort. The good news is, xerostomia is manageable. With the right care, you can protect your teeth, ease discomfort, and get back to enjoying life with confidence.

If you’ve been struggling with persistent dry mouth, we’re here to help. Schedule a visit with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert. Let us create a personalized plan to give you relief and keep your smile healthy.

Call Eggert Family Dentistry at 651.482.8412 to set up an appointment today!

New Crowns and Veneers – Not Scary at All! – Joy’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Eggert Family Dentistry is celebrating 20 years this October! Joy has been there with Dr. Elizabeth the whole time! In 1993, Joy fell and experienced trauma to her front teeth. She had root canals and crowns done at that time, but was starting to notice a crack in the porcelain of one of the crowns and she didn’t like the staining that showed. She also wondered about better color matching for all her front teeth since at that time, only 2 teeth had crowns. For a few years, she asked Dr. Elizabeth what could be done, but was always nervous to move forward with treatment because she couldn’t decide if she was willing to accept her currently darker coloring or if she wanted something brighter and younger looking for her smile. She also now has Parkinson’s disease and notices that caring for her teeth is getting more difficult, as well as sitting through dental treatment, so she didn’t want to keep putting off the decision.

What was recommended?

Dr. Elizabeth verified the recommended treatment using photographs and 3D models of Joy’s teeth. Joy wanted to improve the color of her teeth, making everything brighter. Therefore, it was recommended to do porcelain restorations for all 4 of her upper front teeth. That way, the old crowns could be replaced and the other front teeth could also be better protected where wear and cracking was starting. Since Joy also wanted brighter teeth throughout her mouth, it was recommended that she start with bleaching so the rest of the teeth could be brighter too!

What was involved?

Joy wondered about her lower teeth and if anything could be done for the crowding, but she didn’t want to undergo Invisalign so she decided to just move ahead with the bleaching and upper restorations. Dr. Elizabeth worked up Joy’s case by mocking up a proposal on Joy’s models, looking at how the crowding in the lower teeth contributed to the slight length discrepancy of her front teeth.

Dr. Elizabeth suggested making the front teeth the same length which would also require adjusting on Joy’s lower teeth. Joy thought this was a better idea for her than Invisalign, so they moved ahead with the plan.

Joy started with Zoom whitening, which really helped her teeth brighten up multiple shades and allowed Joy to have all her teeth brightened, while minimizing the number of restorations.

Joy underwent the preparation appointment. Dr. Elizabeth noticed that Joy’s previously traumatized teeth were especially dark from the trauma. She worked to mask the color difference as much as possible, but informed Joy that perfect color matching might not be possible. Joy accepted that since she really wanted to keep her teeth, rather than extract them and replace with implants. So, after a couple of weeks, Dr. Elizabeth inserted Joy’s porcelain restorations – 2 veneers and 2 crowns.

What does Joy think?

After the procedures were completed we met with Joy to reevaluate her restorations and see how she was feeling about the treatment. She reported that everything was been feeling great and that her bite felt good. We asked Joy what she thought about getting the procedures done. She noted, “It was kind of scary. I knew a lot would be involved so I was scared.” In the end, Joy said the process was better than she thought it would be – actually, not scary at all! Joy told us, “I am so happy with it. I was looking a little dull so this brightens my smile, but it’s not over the top – it’s just enough! It’s better!” When we asked her what she would tell a friend or relative who was considering the same treatment, she said “It’s worth the investment!”

You look fabulous Joy and we appreciate your trust in us for over 20 years! We look forward to continuing to bring you “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles!”

🎉 Celebrating 20 Years of Smiles at Eggert Family Dentistry! 🎉

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

October 2005 – October 2025

You’re invited! This October, we are celebrating 20 incredible years of serving the North Oaks and Twin Cities community. Back in October 2005, our founder, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, opened the doors with the intention to provide “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles.” Fast-forward 20 years and Eggert Family Dentistry is recognized as a warm, caring, family-friendly, and high-tech dental practice. And, after two decades and we’re so grateful for patients like you — the friendships, the trust, the daily smiles.

To honor the milestone, we’re turning this month into a fun celebration — and you’re part of it!

What’s happening on our Facebook page

We’ve been posting special content all month on our Facebook page. In honor of Eggert Family Dentistry’s 20th anniversary, we’re posting daily trivia all October! To enter, comment to the Facebook post with the correct answer for a chance to win a “Night in Stillwater!” Everyone is eligible to submit one answer each day, which means up to 31 chances! Correct answers revealed throughout the month as an edit to the original post. We will accept answers/guesses until the answer is posted. Good luck!

The comments have been rolling in – it’s fun seeing how many of you remember our 20 year journey. Check these posts at Eggert Family Dentistry’s Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Eggert.Family.Dentistry//. Here are a few highlights:

On October 14:
“What is a favorite hobby of Dr. Jeff?”

On October 18:
“Dr. Elizabeth is on a quest to do what?”

On October 21:
“Who was one doctor that covered Dr. Elizabeth’s maternity leave when Grant was born in 2009?”

Join the Trivia Fun — & Win a “Night in Stillwater”

Here’s how you can participate and win:

Visit our Facebook page and look for the daily trivia post.
Comment on the trivia post with your answer.
Each correct entry gets you a chance to win a “Night in Stillwater” — our fun way of saying we’re giving away a little local stay-cation (details in the post).
Don’t worry if you miss a day — we will accept answers/guesses until we post the answer so there are still plenty of chances to play throughout October and November.

So yes — you’re absolutely invited to join in the fun, test your Eggert Family Dentistry knowledge, and maybe walk away with the prize. It’s a win-win: you get to reminisce, we get to celebrate, and we all get to smile together.

👍 Stay connected — follow our Facebook page

If you haven’t already, here’s how to stay in the loop:

Go to Facebook and search Eggert Family Dentistry (North Oaks, MN).
Click Follow (or Like) and then turn on Notifications so you don’t miss a trivia post, photo memory, or special announcement.
Invite your family and friends too — the more, the merrier!

By following us you’ll be the first to know about future events, giveaways, practice updates, and awesome patient-community moments.

Thank You for the Past 20 Years!

You’ve trusted us — whether it’s your first check-up, treatment for your kids, a cosmetic smile enhancement, or simply routine recare visit and cleaning. We appreciate the opportunity to care for you and your family’s smiles.

Here’s to the next 20 years of wellness, technology, warm visits, and big-hearted dental care. And in the meantime — dive into our trivia, join the celebration, and let’s mark this milestone together.

See you on Facebook!

Warmly,
The Team at Eggert Family Dentistry
700 Village Center Drive, Suite 120, North Oaks MN 55127
(651) 482-8412

Electric vs. Manual Toothbrushes: Which One Should You Use?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

When it comes to keeping your smile healthy, the toothbrush you choose can make a real difference. Both manual and electric toothbrushes can effectively clean your teeth, but each comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert want you to feel confident in your choice — and most importantly, in how you use it.

Manual toothbrushes are simple, inexpensive, easy to find anywhere, as well as easy to carry. You don’t need batteries or charging, and there’s no mechanical failure to worry about. They give you full control over your brushing, but that also means your technique matters a lot. If you brush too hard, you can wear down enamel or irritate gums. If you brush too quickly or skip areas, plaque may be left behind. In addition, if you struggle with dexterity (arthritis, tremors, hand issues), maintaining ideal coverage may be harder with a manual brush. Manual toothbrushes can do an excellent job if you commit to proper technique and brushing for a full two minutes twice a day.

Electric toothbrushes, on the other hand, provide extra help by moving the bristles for you. Features like built-in timers (often pausing every 30 seconds) and pressure sensors (to avoid overbrushing) make it easier to brush effectively and safely. Research shows electric toothbrushes often remove more plaque and reduce gingivitis better than manual ones. The downsides? They cost more, require charging or batteries, and the cost of replacement brush heads can add up over time. Also, if you rely too much on “letting the brush do all the work,” you might miss surfaces or move too fast, reducing effectiveness.

Oscillating (“Spin”) vs Sonic/Vibrational Electric Brushes

Within electric toothbrushes, you’ll often hear about two main types: oscillating (or “spin”) brushes and sonic brushes. Oscillating brushes, like many Oral-B models, have small round heads that rotate back and forth, scrubbing each tooth. Sonic brushes, like Philips Sonicare, vibrate at high speeds with an ultrasonic pulse, creating gentle fluid motion that helps clean just beyond where the bristles touch. Both can be excellent options — the best one is whichever feels most comfortable and keeps you brushing consistently. In fact, in many head-to-head studies, one style might edge ahead in certain metrics, but the differences tend to be modest.

Popular Brands in the US and What to Watch For

Philips Sonicare – uses ultrasonic vibration. Sleek designs and a gentler feel are a draw for many. Brush heads tend to be more elongated.
Oral-B (Pro, iO, Vitality, etc.) – uses oscillating/rotating heads. Offers a wide selection of head styles, features like pressure sensors, app integration. Some users say the motion can feel strong or “scrubby.”
Quip, Colgate Hum, Burst, Fairywill – newer/subscription or direct-to-consumer lines, more minimalist designs, often sonic or hybrid action. They may be less powerful or have fewer head options, but they are often at a lower price point because there was less research that went into their product development.

Remember, no matter the brand, the brush head should be replaced about every three months.

Brushing Techniques That Make the Difference

At Eggert Family Dentistry, our hygienists review brushing techniques with patients many times each day, but here’s a reminder of how to brush correctly — whether using a manual or electric toothbrush:

Manual brushing:

Use a soft bristle brush.
Brush two minutes, twice a day.
Angle the bristles 45° toward the gumline.
Use gentle, short strokes (or small circles), working on one or two teeth at a time.
For inner surfaces of front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and use up-and-down strokes.
Don’t press too hard — the bristles should do the work.
Replace the brush every 3 months or sooner if the bristles flare.

Electric brushing:

Also use a soft or extra-soft brush head; replace every 3 months.
Apply light, gentle pressure — let the brush head move for you. Many electric brushes have sensors to help avoid overbrushing.
Rest the head on each tooth surface for a few seconds before moving — don’t rush it.
Use the built-in timer or quadrant signals to cover all areas methodically.
Maintain the 45° angle at the gumline, and guide the brush slowly to cover all surfaces (outer, inner, chewing, backs).
Watch how you move — dragging too fast reduces cleaning effectiveness.

By combining the right brushing technique with a toothbrush you like using, you’ll get the best results.

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, we work with our patients to demonstrate proper technique, because the right habits combined with the right toothbrush will keep your smile at its best. Call us today at 651.482.8412 to set up your next recare visit. We look forward to seeing you again soon!

How to Floss Properly and Why It Matters

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

When it comes to keeping your mouth healthy, brushing alone isn’t enough – you also need to floss daily. Flossing helps remove plaque and food debris between your teeth, in places your toothbrush simply can’t reach. To floss properly, start with about 18 inches of string floss. Wrap most of it around your middle fingers, leaving a short section to work with. Gently slide the floss between your teeth using your thumb and forefinger to guide the floss in a back-and-forth motion, then curve it into a “C” shape against one tooth. Carefully move the floss up and down, making sure it goes just under the gumline. Repeat this process for each tooth, using a clean section of floss as you go.

Why String Floss Stands Out

String floss remains the gold standard for cleaning between your teeth. It’s effective at removing plaque when used correctly, and it gives you full control over pressure and placement. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert often find that patients who use a woven type of string floss have lower plaque levels compared to those who use other products. For years, one of our favorite woven flosses was unavailable, but we’re happy to share that it’s back! You can once again find Reach Ultraclean Gentle Gum Care woven floss on Amazon, and it’s available at a reasonable price – it’s back by popular demand.

Flossing Alternatives: Water Flossers

Many people turn to flossing alternatives such as water flossers. These devices use a steady stream of water to clean between teeth and along the gumline. The main advantage is that they’re easy to use, especially if you have braces, implants, or bridges. They can also feel gentler for sensitive gums. However, water flossers don’t scrape plaque from the sides of your teeth as effectively as string floss. They are a helpful supplement, but they shouldn’t replace traditional flossing altogether.

Floss Picks and Interdental Brushes

Floss picks and interdental brushes are other popular alternatives. Floss picks are convenient and portable, making them great for on-the-go use. The drawback is that they don’t allow you to curve the floss properly around each tooth, so you may not get the same thorough clean. Interdental brushes, on the other hand, are especially effective for cleaning larger spaces or around orthodontic appliances. The downside is that they’re not always practical for tight contacts between teeth. Both tools can be helpful additions, but neither fully matches the effectiveness of string floss when it comes to daily plaque removal.

Finding What Works Best for You

Ultimately, the best flossing method is the one you’ll use consistently. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we’re always happy to review flossing techniques with you at your next recare visit and help you find the right product for your unique needs. Whether you prefer classic woven floss, a water flosser, or an interdental brush, the key is making flossing part of your daily routine. With the return of Reach Ultraclean Gentle Gum Care woven floss, you now have another excellent option to keep your smile healthy and your gums strong. Call us today for your next appointment – 651.492.8412.

Images courtesy of Vectorstock.com

Scaling and Root Planing:  A Deeper Clean for Better Health

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If you visit our office regularly, you’re already educated about the threat of gum disease. We make it a priority to teach our patients how to care for their teeth and prevent its harmful effects. Unfortunately, it can sometimes develop despite our best efforts, and when it does, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert of Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN address it directly.

In this article, we’ll provide a concise overview of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, and explain how scaling and root planing can help stop—and in some cases even reverse—its effects before it leads to tooth loss or other systemic health issues.

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth, typically starting as gingivitis—the mild, reversible stage marked by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily. Without treatment, it can progress to a more serious form of periodontal disease, often referred to as periodontitis, where the infection damages the bone and connective tissue, leading to gum recession, loose teeth, and often tooth loss.

Gum disease develops when plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—builds up on teeth and hardens into tartar, irritating the gums and causing inflammation. Common signs include bleeding gums, bad breath, swollen or tender gums, receding gums, and shifting teeth. Good oral hygiene at home and regular dental visits are key to preventing and treating gum disease.

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a deep-cleaning treatment used to address gum disease. Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from both above and below the gum line, where regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental cleanings can’t reach. Root planing smooths the surfaces of the tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to cling and helping the gums heal and reattach to the teeth.

Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert typically recommend this procedure when gum disease has advanced beyond gingivitis and deep pockets have formed between the gums and teeth. Unlike a routine cleaning, which focuses on the visible surfaces of teeth, scaling and root planing targets the deeper areas where infection has taken hold, especially below the gum line, helping to stop disease progression and protect your smile.

The Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing delivers lasting benefits that protect your gums, teeth, and overall oral health. By targeting the bacteria and tartar that contribute to gum disease, this treatment can improve healing, prevent further damage, and support a healthier mouth.

Key benefits include:

Halting the progression of gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from deep beneath the gums
Reducing inflammation and bleeding, allowing gums to heal and stay healthy
Helping prevent tooth loss by stopping the infection that can loosen teeth
Supporting bone and gum tissue regeneration, promoting recovery of oral structures
Improving breath and overall oral hygiene by eliminating bacteria and plaque buildup

What to Expect from Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is typically done over one or more visits, depending on the extent of the gum disease. During the procedure, the magnificent hygienists at Eggert Family Dentistry will use specialized instruments to carefully remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Then they will smooth the tooth roots to help the gums reattach. Often both a water treatment, using a Cavitron, and hand instrumentation is used. A local anesthetic is generally used to ensure your comfort throughout the treatment.

After the procedure, proper healing and maintenance are essential. Our patients are encouraged to continue diligent oral hygiene at home—brushing, flossing, and using antimicrobial rinses, as recommended. Follow-up appointments allow our team to monitor your progress and, in some cases, prescribe antibiotics to support healing. At Eggert Family Dentistry, patient comfort and personalized care are a top priority, ensuring each visit is as gentle and effective as possible.

Addressing gum disease early on is one key to protecting your teeth, gums, and overall oral health, and advanced treatments like scaling and root planing can make a significant difference in halting its progression and promoting healing.

During routine recare visits, we can spot potential issues early—before they become serious. If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease or want to learn more about how scaling and root planing can support your oral health, give Eggert Family Dentistry a call at 651.482.8412 to set up an appointment!

Two Brothers, Both Missing Teeth – the Stories of Anders and Lars

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Family is very important to us here at Eggert Family Dentistry and serving entire families is one of our biggest joys. We love following trends in families because we can often help stop dental disease in its tracks, especially for children of parents that have been patients for years. We truly appreciate the trust so many families put in the care of our doctors – Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert, as well as our dedicated team. A positive dentist-patient relationship is the cornerstone of good oral health for your whole family. Now, meet Anders and Lars, two brothers who came to us as new patients, joining their father who had been seeing Dr. Elizabeth for over a decade.

Lars and Anders both had congenitally missing teeth, meaning they weren’t born with certain teeth. Missing teeth, also known as hypodontia, is a hereditary condition and often runs in families. A congenitally missing tooth is one of the most common dental developmental anomalies. In fact, roughly 20% of adults have at least one tooth that never developed.

What did Lars and Anders want?

Lars and Anders both started orthodontics before they were patients at Eggert Family Dentistry. With their parents and their orthodontist, Lars and Anders chose to close the space where they were missing a lateral incisor (tooth #10). The hope was that when they were old enough, the canine tooth could be “converted” to look like a lateral incisor. This is not the easiest restorative conversion and it can lead to long-term bite issues, but Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth were ready to take on the challenge and help Lars and Anders address their esthetic concerns, meanwhile, hoping to help them stabilize their bites for long-term success.

What was involved?

In addition to the missing lateral incisors, both Lars and Anders had spacing and tooth size discrepancies for their other incisors. It was recommended to buildup their anterior teeth with composite resin, doing composite veneers, to address these spacing and tooth shape issues. Because Lars and Anders are still young adults, composite resin was chosen as the material of choice because it is a very conservative option and will allow for easy conversion to porcelain materials down the line for ultimate esthetics as these two move along into adulthood.

After preplanning appointments to gather impressions for models to use for a wax-up and an appointment to mock-up the teeth and view the proposal, both Lars and Anders had their tooth changes done in only one appointment!

What do they think?

Both brothers are typical, busy, college students, but we were able to flag them down regarding their treatment. They report that things have settled in nicely and they are getting used to the changes. Lars told us, “I feel good about the treatment. It’s different, but as I look at them every day, I really like it.” He told us he was a little nervous before the treatment because we were changing the look of his teeth, but he was confident in the doctors at Eggert Family Dentistry and knew the process would be worth it. He would tell someone else considering this procedure to “Trust the process. The doctors at Eggert Family Dentistry know what they are doing. It can be scary, but really there isn’t anything to worry about.”

We are so pleased to be able to give these brothers a new matching set to smile with. Thank you for the trust you place in our team at Eggert Family Dentistry. We look forward to many years caring for you and your family!

How Dental Insurance Works, Common Coverage Gaps, and Why Dental Procedures Are Worth the Investment

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Dental insurance can be a valuable tool in helping you manage the cost of maintaining a healthy smile. However, many patients are surprised to learn that dental insurance doesn’t always cover the full cost—or in some cases, any of the cost—of the treatments recommended by Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert of Eggert Family Dentistry. Understanding how dental insurance works, where coverage gaps occur, and why it’s worth investing in procedures not covered by your plan can help you make informed, confident decisions about your oral health.

How Dental Insurance Plans Work

Unlike medical insurance, dental insurance is designed more as a benefit than a comprehensive health care plan. Most dental plans follow a cost-sharing model between the insurer and patient, which includes deductibles, copays, annual maximums, and coinsurance.

Deductible: A deductible is the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance begins covering costs. Preventive services like cleanings and exams often don’t require a deductible. But, unfortunately in this changing market, some new plans WILL require deductibles before they provide any benefits.
Copay: A copay is a predetermined dollar amount that patients must pay upfront for a medical or dental service. These can vary depending on the type of service you receive.
Annual Maximum: Most plans cap how much they’ll pay per year—commonly around $1,000–$1,500. Once you reach that limit, you pay for additional treatments out of pocket.
Coinsurance: After meeting your deductible, you typically share in the cost of treatments. For example, your plan might cover 80% of a procedure, leaving you responsible for the remaining 20%.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we do a lot to help you understand your insurance plan and how these terms apply to you. However, we always need you to understand that we have nothing to do with the makeup of your plan, we do not determine your coverage, and we cannot do anything to “make your insurance company pay.” Your plan is decided by the agreement between your employer and the insurance provider, or by the plan you purchase individually. As always, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert may recommend a procedure because it’s best for your health, but that does not necessarily mean that you will have benefits from your insurance company for the procedure and your insurance may not agree to pay for it for you.

Why Doesn’t Insurance Cover Everything?

Most dental plans do not cover all procedures. Typically, they provide:

100% coverage for preventive care, such as exams, cleanings, and x-rays
80% coverage for basic procedures, such as fillings and simple extractions
50% coverage for major procedures, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures

Some procedures—such as dental implants, orthodontics, or cosmetic dentistry—may not be covered at all. Why? Insurance companies are a big business and many of them are out to maximize their profits. This means they often opt for the least expensive alternative treatment (LEAT). For example, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert may recommend a dental implant for its durability and long-term benefits, but your plan might only cover a partial denture because it costs them less.

Other common coverage limitations include:

Pre-existing conditions: Your plan might not cover treatments for conditions you had before enrollment.
Frequency limits: Your plan may limit the number of times they will pay for a procedure, like cleanings or exams per year, even if you need more to keep your oral health in tip-top shape.
Downcoding: Your insurance may change the procedure to a less expensive one, and you may be responsible for the difference.
Bundling: Multiple procedures may be combined into one “bundle” by the insurer, reducing your benefits.

Remember: Your dental plan is a financial agreement, not a treatment guide. It’s designed to manage costs, not dictate what care you receive. The most accurate way to think of it is like a good pre-paid coupon.

What to Do if a Procedure Isn’t Covered

If Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert recommends a procedure that isn’t covered, you have a few options:

Look for covered alternatives: Sometimes, there’s a less expensive procedure that may at least partially address your dental issue and is covered by insurance. However, cheaper isn’t always better. Discuss with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert whether the alternative is a good fit for your situation.
Ask us about payment options: At Eggert Family Dentistry, we want you to be able to receive the care you need. Please ask our business team about payment options, which can include credit cards or medical financing options like CareCredit, which let you spread out payments over time, often with little or no interest.
Appeal insurance decisions: If a claim is denied because the procedure was deemed “not dentally necessary,” you can appeal. Kristina in our office works hard for you, appealing insurance company decisions every day. If she needs you to get involved, she’ll let you know and a phone call by you can also help move things along. Your insurance company wants to maintain a good relationship with you as you are their customer (often through your employer).

Ultimately, never skip a medically necessary procedure due to insurance limitations. Dental issues don’t resolve on their own—they worsen. Treating problems early can prevent pain, infection, and higher costs down the line.

Why Investing in Dental Procedures Is Worth It

While it’s natural to focus on cost and insurance coverage, sometimes it’s smarter—and more cost-effective—to invest in a procedure not fully covered by insurance. Here’s why:

Durability: Procedures like dental implants may cost more upfront but last for decades, unlike dentures or bridges that may need to be replaced.
Functionality: Higher-quality restorations often look, feel, and function like natural teeth, improving comfort and confidence.
Preventive Value: Early treatment can stop issues from escalating, saving you time, money, and discomfort later. It is also less likely that you will need to have things replaced as quickly if done right the first time!

Make Treatment Decisions Based on Your Health, Not Just on Coverage

Dental insurance is a helpful tool, but it should not be the only factor in deciding your treatment. Your oral health has lifelong impacts on your comfort, nutrition, self-confidence, and even overall health. When facing a treatment decision, talk openly with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert about your options, insurance coverage, and financing solutions.

Do you still have questions about what your plan covers or how to afford the treatment you need? Contact our team at Eggert Family Dentistry at 651.482.8412! We’re here to help you understand your options and get the care you need to stay healthy.