Unlocking A Brighter Smile with Zoom Whitening – Kimberly’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

At Eggert Family Dentistry we find that a lot of our patients are interested in professional teeth whitening and want to know the options that we offer.  They are often looking for quick results, lower chances of sensitivity, longevity, and an affordable cost for the treatment.  One of our most popular options that checks all of these boxes is the Zoom Whitening System.  This procedure includes an in-office whitening treatment, which can brighten your teeth up to 8 shades, as well as take-home bleaching trays, which help to set and maintain the color.  Using a special whitening gel and a blue LED light, in just 2 hours you will have a brighter smile.

Where did Kimberly start?

Kimberly and her family have been loyal patients of Eggert Family Dentistry for a very long time, always consistent with recare appointments and they follow through with recommended treatment by Dr. Elizabeth.  Recently, Kimberly decided that she wanted to brighten her smile and set-up an appointment for the Zoom Whitening procedure.    

What did Kimberly want?

Kimberly, like so many of us, had staining to her teeth and noticed that in the last few years, her teeth were getting darker and more yellow.  She wanted to whiten them quickly and decided that the Zoom Whitening procedure was perfect for her needs.  She was afraid that the over-the-counter whitening strip options would cause sensitivity.  She also had heard from friends that the white strips can take numerous applications for very minimal improvements.

Kim Before

What was involved?

Kimberly came to our office for a 2-hour appointment.  The Zoom Whitening procedure is performed in the office and starts with photographs, obtaining an initial shade, and taking impressions to create custom bleaching trays.  After these initial steps, Kimberly relaxed in the dental chair as our assistant, Heather, applied a barrier layer for her gum tissues before the bleach was applied.  Kimberly sat through four 15-minute sessions where the Zoom LED light shined onto her teeth with the bleaching gel.  Zoom uses this light to activate the gel, which in turn accelerates the bleaching process.  Essentially, the light energy speeds up the chemical reaction that whitens the teeth.  While the LED light is bright and blue, some people mistakenly think it emits UV rays, but this is not the case at all.  The blue light is perfectly safe!

While Kimberly was enjoying time to herself, Heather was busy fabricating her at-home bleaching trays so she could have them as soon as possible to help set the color at home.  These trays can also be used to apply a desensitizing gel, if necessary.

Custom At-Home Trays

What does Kimberly think?

“I was curious of how the process worked and wondered if it would work for me?”  Kimberly found it to be very easy and she told us she was very pleased with the results.  She would tell her friends that it was an easy process!  Now with the trays that were designed especially for her and included in the treatment, she can continue to brighten her smile at home for even whiter results or she can use the trays when her teeth start taking on some discoloration again, therefore allowing her to keep her confident with her beautiful new smile for many years to come!

Kimberly After

Kimberly Before and After

The History of Tooth Whitening

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

When you think of tooth whitening, you may imagine the sleek kits available today or the sparkling smiles from toothpaste commercials. But did you know that the quest for whiter teeth has been around for centuries? Tooth whitening has evolved significantly, both in its methods and its understanding. By exploring its history and how it works scientifically, you can better appreciate the advancements that have made achieving a bright smile safer and more effective than ever.

Your journey through the history of tooth whitening would take you back to ancient Egypt, where beauty and hygiene were held in high esteem. Egyptians reportedly used a mixture of ground pumice stone and vinegar to clean and whiten their teeth. This is actually a very primitive version of the prophy polishing paste now used by your friendly hygienists at Eggert Family Dentistry! The Romans had their unique methods as well, often using urine—yes, urine—because of its ammonia content, which has bleaching properties. These practices, while effective to some extent, were harsh and likely caused damage to the teeth over time.

Fast forward to the 18th and 19th centuries, when barbers doubled as dentists. You might be surprised to learn that they performed tooth whitening by filing teeth and applying acid. While it might have temporarily brightened teeth, it also eroded enamel and left teeth vulnerable to decay. It wasn’t until the 20th century that safer and more scientifically sound methods began to emerge, paving the way for modern whitening techniques.

Today, tooth whitening is backed by science and advanced formulations. But how does it actually work? When you use whitening products, you’re likely interacting with two primary active ingredients: hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These compounds penetrate the porous enamel of your teeth to break down stains at a molecular level. Whether the discoloration is caused by coffee, tea, red wine, smoking, or simply aging, these ingredients oxidize the chromogens (colored compounds) into smaller, less visible molecules, making your teeth appear whiter. There is also the effect of extra oxygen penetrating inside the teeth, therefore scattering the light differently and allowing the teeth to appear brighter!

You may wonder whether tooth whitening is safe. Thanks to rigorous testing and regulation, modern whitening products are designed to be both effective and gentle. However, overuse or misuse can lead to sensitivity or enamel damage. That’s why it’s essential to follow product instructions carefully or consult Dr. Elizabeth or Dr. Jeff Eggert of Eggert Family Dentistry. Many products now incorporate desensitizing agents like potassium nitrate or fluoride to minimize discomfort.

Understanding the history and science of tooth whitening helps you make informed decisions about your oral health. Whether you choose at-home kits, professional treatments at Eggert Family Dentistry, or whitening toothpaste, you’re partaking in a practice with deep historical roots and a bright future. So next time you flash your pearly whites, you’ll know just how far humanity has come in the pursuit of that radiant smile.

Make 2025 your year to make history!  Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert would love to help you explore your teeth-whitening options. Give our office a call at 651.482.8412 to schedule your appointment!

What Good is Whitening Toothpaste Anyway?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

When it comes to whitening toothpastes, the choices can feel overwhelming. Each brand promises to deliver whiter teeth, often within weeks. But have you ever wondered how these products work and whether they live up to their claims? Understanding the types of whitening toothpastes and their effectiveness can help you choose the best option for your smile.

Most whitening toothpastes use mild abrasives to scrub away surface stains caused by coffee, tea, or smoking. Brands like Colgate Optic White and Crest 3D White go a step further by incorporating chemical agents like hydrogen peroxide. These chemicals not only polish the teeth but also slightly penetrate the enamel to break down stains. On the other hand, brands like Sensodyne True White focus on providing a gentler whitening experience, catering to those with sensitive teeth by minimizing abrasive content.

You might notice that some brands claim to “whiten teeth by several shades” in just a few weeks. While these claims are partly true, it’s important to understand the limitations. Whitening toothpastes primarily address surface stains and don’t change the natural color of your teeth or address deeper stains. If you’re looking for dramatic results, you may need to consider professional treatments or whitening kits with your dental professionals at Eggert Family Dentistry.

The effectiveness of whitening toothpastes also depends on how consistently you use them. With twice-daily brushing, you may start to see noticeable improvements in two to six weeks. However, the results are typically temporary. Surface stains can reappear if you continue consuming staining foods and drinks. To maintain your results, you’ll need to keep using the toothpaste or combine it with other whitening methods.

Are these toothpastes safe for everyday use? For most people, the answer is yes. However, overuse can lead to enamel erosion or increased sensitivity. That’s why it’s essential to follow the product’s guidelines and consult Dr. Elizabeth or Dr. Jeff Eggert if you have concerns. Some brands, like Arm & Hammer Advance White, incorporate baking soda to provide a milder, low-abrasion option for regular use.

Choosing the right whitening toothpaste depends on your individual needs and goals. If you’re seeking gentle care for sensitive teeth, a product like Sensodyne might be your best bet. For those aiming for quicker results, a toothpaste with hydrogen peroxide, like Colgate Optic White, could be more effective. By understanding how these products work and setting realistic expectations, you can achieve a brighter smile while protecting your oral health.

Do you have more questions? The team at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN is here to help!  We look forward to seeing you soon for your first 2025 recare appointment. Call us today and get you and your family scheduled! 651.482.8412.

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

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

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

Why Does Tooth Discoloration Occur?

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

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

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

KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching™ System

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

Philips Zoom Whitening Treatment

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

Here’s how it works:

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

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

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

Professional-Grade Strips and Whitening Trays

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

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

The End of the Year Brings Time for Reflection

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

“Life has a curious way of throwing unexpected challenges our way, reminding us of its unpredictability and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.” This is how our blog from January this year begins. As many of you know, earlier this year, we shared the difficult news of Dr. Jeff Eggert’s brother, Matt, and his battle with Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer. At just 43 years old, Matt faced this aggressive disease with unwavering courage and an indomitable spirit. His team at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester were amazing at giving him more life when others had little hope. While his passing in September marked a heartbreaking end to his fight, his legacy lives on as a testament to strength, love, and the power of community.

Matt was a fighter until the very end. Even his last night in the hospital, when he no longer could talk, he kept wanting to communicate with Dr. Jeff about anything he maybe had missed. His journey was one of incredible perseverance and grace in the face of unimaginable challenges. In November, we had the privilege of coming together to honor Matt’s life at a memorial event that celebrated not just who he was but the impact he had on everyone around him. His obituary speaks for itself. The outpouring of love and support from friends, family, and colleagues was truly overwhelming. It was a beautiful reminder of the connections we share and the profound ways we can lift each other up in times of grief.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we are deeply grateful for the support we’ve received throughout this past year. Navigating such a personal loss has been made more bearable by the kindness and compassion shown by our patients, team members, and business associates. Your understanding and encouragement have meant the world to us, and we want to express our heartfelt thanks for standing by us during this time.

Life is short, and moments like these remind us of the importance of cherishing each day and the people who make our lives meaningful. As we move forward, we carry Matt’s memory with us, inspired by his courage and the love he shared with those around him. To all our patients, team members, and colleagues: thank you for being part of our journey and for allowing us to be part of yours. Your support and trust mean more than words can express, and we are honored to serve such an incredible community. Thank you!

What’s on Your Teeth’s Wishlist this Holiday?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If your teeth had a wish list, what would be on it? Likely, they’d be dreaming of a life full of health, strength, and sparkle. Teeth work hard for you every day, helping you eat, speak, and flash a confident smile. In return, they have a few simple wishes that can keep them at their best. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert are dedicated to helping your teeth fulfill these dreams. Let’s dive into what might top their wish list.

First on the list:

“Keep me clean and healthy!” Your teeth long for proper care, which includes brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. This keeps plaque at bay and prevents cavities and gum disease. Regular professional cleanings and exams are also a must. At Eggert Family Dentistry, our hygienists excel at keeping your teeth sparkling clean while checking for any potential issues. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert will also ensure your teeth and gums are in excellent shape by catching problems early and offering personalized care plans.

What else makes the list?

Second, your teeth might wish for a little extra protection. Think about custom-fit mouthguards if you grind your teeth at night or play sports. These simple tools can prevent cracks, chips, and wear and tear. Eggert Family Dentistry offers high-quality mouthguards tailored to your needs, helping your teeth stay strong and protected. Additionally, fluoride treatments and dental sealants might be on your teeth’s wish list to provide an extra shield against decay.

Lastly, your teeth probably dream of looking their best. Whether it’s whitening treatments to brighten your smile, orthodontic solutions to straighten your teeth, or restorative work like crowns and veneers to repair damage, Eggert Family Dentistry has you covered. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert combine expertise with state-of-the-art technology to make your smile’s wishes come true. When your teeth look great, you’ll feel more confident—and your teeth will thank you!

How to give your teeth what they desire?

Your teeth do so much for you, and they deserve a little pampering in return. By sticking to good oral hygiene habits, scheduling regular dental visits, and considering additional treatments when needed, you’ll help your teeth check everything off their wish list. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we’re here to make it happen. Call us today at 651-482-8412 to schedule an appointment and give your teeth the care they deserve!

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

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

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

Indulge in Holiday Goodness While Protecting Those Pearly Whites

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

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

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

Not at all!

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

1. Stay hydrated.

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

2. Incorporate fiber-rich foods.

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

3. Chew sugar-free gum.

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

Your Teeth Have a Wish List, Too!

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

  • Keep up with daily brushing and flossing.

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

  • Swish with mouthwash.

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

  • Keep up with recommended recare visits.

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

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

“All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth” – Connor’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Connor started seeing Dr. Elizabeth in the fall of 2020.  Connor was born without two lower teeth.  The teeth were congenitally missing, a condition often known as hypodontia.  To mask this, Connor had been wearing a metal wire retainer (Hawley retainer) with two teeth attached to it since his braces were removed many years prior.  Why some people are born without certain teeth is unknown.  While there are often genetic or heredity links, it isn’t always that parents pass this condition on to their children, in fact, it is often found to skip a generation.  Treatments for congenitally missing teeth usually include bridges, dentures, or dental implants.  Often orthodontic treatment is also necessary to make sure the spacing available is adequate.

What was recommended?

Dr. Elizabeth talked with Connor about treatment options for the future, should he ever decide that wearing a retainer full time wasn’t for him.  In an ideal world, implants can replace congenitally missing teeth without altering any other teeth in the area.  Connor did go for a consult with the oral surgeon, hoping to hear that he could undergo implant treatment whenever he was tired of wearing his retainer.  Unfortunately, Connor doesn’t have enough space for implants.

What this means is that Connor will have to undergo orthodontic treatment (again) before any implant surgery can be done.  Connor and his mom and dad weren’t excited about that option and wanted to know what alternative treatment options he has.  Connor goes to college and does not feel that orthodontic treatment at this point in his life is what he wants.

Connor could choose traditional bridges, but Dr. Elizabeth was not in favor of this option because the bridges would be built on small anchor teeth.  Initially, Connor planned to keep wearing his wire retainer, but then last summer, his retainer finally broke.  Connor was tired of wearing a retainer so Dr. Elizabeth Eggert suggested Connor consider having bonded composite “bridges” completed.  She talked with Connor about how conservative the preparation could be for the anchor teeth and was confident that the results could look good.  Another advantage of the composite bonded “bridges” was that if Connor does decide to move forward with orthodontics and implants later in life, his neighboring teeth will still be in good shape.

What did he want?

After discussing the pros and cons with Dr. Elizabeth, Connor and his parents decided on composite bonded “bridges,” which is a type of fixed dental prosthesis for the replacement of a single missing tooth.  The design of the bonded bridge consists of an artificial tooth made out of plastic filling material with a wing-like extension, which is bonded to the neighboring tooth or teeth.  The tooth which supports the resin bonded bridge is called an abutment.  The tooth which is replaced by the bonded bridge is called a pontic.  Usually only minimal preparation is done to the abutment tooth and this treatment is considered minimally invasive.

What was involved?

After deciding to move forward with the composite bonded “bridge,” Dr. Elizabeth took impressions to get a model of Connor’s teeth so she could design the new restorations.  Connor also wanted his teeth to be whiter so he did over-the-counter Crest White Strips to bleach his teeth.  Connor then had an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth and in one day, he left the office with two new teeth as part of his composite bonded “bridges.”

What does he think?

Once the treatment was completed Connor was very happy with the esthetics and his bite.  When we asked him some questions following treatment he said that he did not think much about having the procedure done, but just that it may take a while.  He was surprised at how quick and easy the procedure appointment was and notes “I actually fell asleep for awhile I think!”  Connor says “I love them!  They’re super easy and they feel pretty normal already!  It’s been great.”  He would tell anyone that needed the same procedure to definitely do it!  “It’s totally worth it.”

Thank you, Connor, for trusting us with your smile, we look forward to working with you for many years to come.

Thankful For My New Partials – Bob’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Bob initially was a long-time patient of Dr. Furey before Dr. Elizabeth came on the scene.  Bob has autism and requires special care at his visits as he is often non-verbal, making it tricky to communicate or understand his needs.  Bob comes to appointments with his mom, Marlene, who does what she can to help communicate Bob’s needs.

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders.  Autistic disorders include Asperger Syndrome, Rett Syndrome, and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder.  The number of children with autism is on the rise according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Patients with ASD often have difficulties with social interactions, communication, and repetitive behavior.  They process sensation atypically and may be overly sensitive to bright lights, loud sounds, touch, strong odors, or taste which can make dental visits a challenge for all involved.

Bob also has a severe gag reflex, which makes it difficult for restorations to be done on his teeth without being sedated for the procedures.

Bob Before

What did Bob and his mom want?

Initially, Bob wanted his severe toothache addressed.  It had been awhile since Bob had seen a dentist before Dr. Elizabeth saw him at Eggert Family Dentistry.  Bob wore a flipper partial for his upper teeth that was breaking down.  Bob also had evidence of the start of periodontal disease, as well as some teeth with severe cavities that needed attention.  Bob was having intense pain with these teeth and it seemed like extractions were Bob’s best option, partially because he was unable to take good care of teeth so far back in his mouth due to his autistic disease, as well as his gag reflex.

Bob and his mom wanted Bob to be healthy and set up well since he was planning to move to a group home in the near future, as his mom was finding it more difficult to fully care for him as she gets older too.

It was decided to try to save as many teeth as possible for Bob, without extensive dental heroics and to make him partial dentures that would help him chew and “feel more complete.”

Back molars with deep cavities and broken

What is involved?

After extensive gathering of information and research, Dr. Elizabeth had a plan in place for Bob that was approved by Bob and his mom.  Bob had his teeth extracted with an oral surgeon and after some healing time, they began working through the partials.  Since Bob had such a severe gag reflex, Dr. Elizabeth was able to use the intraoral scanner to send images of Bob’s teeth to the dental lab to design his partial dentures.

Bob’s Upper and Lower Arch

Dr. Elizabeth worked with the lab and over the course of a few weeks, Bob was able to see his partials come to life.  First, there was a try-in of the plastic frame for the partial denture.  Then, Bob got to see what the teeth would look like before they were set in hard plastic.  The dental lab sends denture teeth set-up in wax so changes can easily be made if desired.  Bob and his mom liked the process and couldn’t wait to get Bob’s final partial dentures!

Unlike conventional metal based partial dentures which rely on metal clasps to provide stability on the teeth, flexible dentures are thinner and more lightweight and rest comfortably in the mouth secured with clasps that blend in better with natural teeth.  Flexible partial dentures are designed to be comfortable and functional and should not restrict the ability to eat or speak.  Bob’s partial dentures were made from a special, very strong plastic, called acetal.  The dental lab suggested that acetal be used for Bob since it can be made very thin (to help with his gag reflex) and it is very strong (to help with Bob’s habit of grinding his teeth).

 

Flexible Partial Example

What do they think?

Bob was excited to get his partials and Marlene reports that he eats better with his new partials and he even is able to communicate verbally with her.  When Dr. Elizabeth saw Bob for his follow-up denture adjustment appointments, he actually answered direct questions.  He was so excited about his partials that he was more open to communicating with others!  Bob hates to be without his partials and keeps a close eye on them during his teeth cleanings when he has to take them out.  It was exciting to see such a transformation for him.  Bob also started a job in a school cafeteria, we like to think at least partially because of increased confidence!  Congratulations on your new partials Bob.  It was our pleasure to be able to work closely with you on this project.

The Link Between Sleep Deprivation and Alzheimer’s Disease: How Eggert Family Dentistry Can Help

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining your overall health, and recent research highlights its profound impact on brain function. Studies show that a lack of sleep may increase your risk for Alzheimer’s disease, a devastating condition that affects memory and cognitive abilities. If you struggle with sleep, it’s essential to understand the connection and explore solutions to protect your brain health. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert can help you address sleep issues with custom dental appliances tailored to your needs.

What Do We Know?

Scientific evidence demonstrates a strong link between poor sleep and the development of Alzheimer’s disease. One pivotal study published in Nature Neuroscience revealed that sleep deprivation leads to the buildup of beta-amyloid, a toxic protein associated with Alzheimer’s. Normally, your brain clears beta-amyloid during deep sleep, but insufficient rest disrupts this process, allowing the protein to accumulate. Over time, this buildup can contribute to the progression of the disease.

Another study from Science Translational Medicine reinforced these findings, showing that just one night of sleep deprivation can significantly increase beta-amyloid levels. Chronic sleep issues, such as sleep apnea, can exacerbate the problem by repeatedly interrupting your sleep cycles, further impairing your brain’s ability to cleanse itself. These findings highlight the importance of addressing sleep problems early to minimize long-term risks to your brain health.

Solutions with your Eggert Family Dentistry Team

At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert specialize in helping patients overcome sleep issues that may be contributing to poor rest. They can fabricate custom oral appliances designed to improve your sleep quality, particularly if you suffer from conditions like obstructive sleep apnea. These appliances gently reposition your jaw to keep your airway open during sleep, reducing interruptions and allowing your body to enter the restorative stages of rest.

Using the Seattle Protocol, the Eggert Family Dentistry team carefully determines the best type of sleep appliance for you. This method involves a series of diagnostic steps to ensure the appliance is optimized for your specific needs. By combining cutting-edge technology with personalized care, they provide effective solutions to help you sleep better and protect your brain health.

If you’re struggling with poor sleep or have concerns about its impact on your overall health, Eggert Family Dentistry can help. By addressing sleep problems with tailored dental solutions, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert not only improve your sleep but also support your long-term cognitive well-being. Don’t let poor sleep jeopardize your future—schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward better rest and a healthier brain. Call us today 651-482-8412 or visit our website.