Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, Author at Eggert Family Dentistry Blog

All I Want for Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth! – Alisha’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

It is the time of year when we gather for the holidays, take pictures with our families, and send Christmas cards to everyone! Having a beautiful smile certainly reminds us of the song from our childhood and resonates now as much as it did when we were the 6-year-olds with missing front teeth.

Meet Alisha, one of Dr. Elizabeth Eggert’s long-time patients. In fact, Alisha was only a teenager when she and Dr. Elizabeth met. Alisha came into the practice with a history of trauma to her two front teeth. She was lucky in that she still had her teeth present, but the trauma caused the need for root canal treatments and overtime, the teeth darkened, cracked, and chipped. When Alisha was old enough and with a steady job, she wanted to invest in herself and change the appearance of her two front teeth.

What was recommended?

Alisha expressed an interest in Invisalign because she thought it might help her tooth esthetics. However, Alisha originally had a complicated bite and it was recommended that she undergo orthodontics with Dr. DeVoe, an orthodontic specialist. There was more to improving Alisha’s smile than esthetics alone. Improving her tooth bite was an important aspect for long-term stability. Dr. Elizabeth explained to Alisha about how orthodontics could enhance both tooth function and esthetics, but also help her change her mouth breathing habit. Dr. Elizabeth also explained to Alisha that completing restorations for her two front teeth after orthodontics would be enough to change the color and protect her teeth from more cracking and chipping. With this information, Alisha decided to move forward.

What did she want?

As a young professional, Alisha wanted to look better, but was also concerned about keeping the treatment affordable for her. Seeing as the treatment would involve her two front teeth, she was also nervous about the outcome. It took more than a couple years for her to feel confident about moving forward, but once she did, the progress moved along quickly. Dr. Elizabeth worked closely with Dr. DeVoe so the final tooth movements would set Alisha up for an amazing outcome.

What was involved?

To help Alisha’s case move more quickly, Dr. DeVoe recommended traditional brackets and wires for her orthodontic treatment. Because of this, he was able to correct her more complicated “cross-bite” and create symmetry in her gum-tissue levels. This symmetry is especially important when gum tissues show during smiling like it does for Alisha. After the orthodontics was complete, Alisha worked with Dr. Elizabeth to prepare her two front teeth for all porcelain crowns, complete one filling on a discolored tooth with decay, and cement the crowns into place. Alisha chose to keep the color of her teeth more natural as she wasn’t interested in the potential maintenance involved with bleaching procedures.

What does she think?

Alisha was very open about the fact that she was nervous about the outcome for her treatment since it would impact her smile so much. But, having been with Dr. Elizabeth for many years she knew it would go well. “I am very pleased with how it all came out. It didn’t take as long or hurt like I thought it would.” Many patients are just like Alisha, very nervous to start the process that can so vastly impact their lives. Not only does dentistry like this enhance esthetics, it does a lot to improve confidence. When we asked Alisha what she would tell someone considering treatment she said, “If you can afford it, do it! My teeth and my smile are going to last a long time. It’s not just esthetic – it’s practical, it’s tooth security!”

Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff work very hard to keep their promise of “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles” for their patients and Alisha is another great example of that! We truly hope that Alisha and all of our patients are enjoying the holiday season. If you are looking for a way to make changes and create your new beautiful smile, call Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, Minnesota today, 651-482-8412.

Your Guide to Getting into a Dental Assistant Program

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If you’re thinking about starting a career in dental assisting, you’re choosing a path that combines hands-on patient care, teamwork, and fast entry into the healthcare field. Dental assistants are vital members of dental teams, helping deliver preventive care, support dentists during procedures, handle infection control, and help patients feel comfortable. To get into the field, you’ll want to understand the application process, how to prepare in high school, where you can study locally, and how special options like the 916 Career & Tech Center program can give you an early start.

Preparing Early: High School Classes and Skills That Help

Long before you submit an application to a dental assistant program, you can start preparing in high school. Taking courses like biology, anatomy and physiology, health sciences, chemistry, and math give you a strong foundation for the sciences you’ll see in dental training. Classes such as English/communication, business or computer applications, and even psychology will help you communicate with patients and manage dental office tasks. Skills like attention to detail, excellent communication, good manual dexterity, and a genuine interest in helping others will make the training and your future work easier and more satisfying. Employers and educators look for students who are organized, empathetic, and ready to interact professionally with patients every day.

A Special Path: Dental Assisting Through the 916 Career & Tech Center

One exciting option if you’re still in high school is to take advantage of the Northeast Metro ISD 916 Career & Tech Center’s programs. The 916 Center partners with Century College (located on Century College’s campus in White Bear Lake) to offer real-world dental assisting exposure and clinical observation opportunities for juniors and seniors in high school. This means you can start building dental knowledge—and potentially college credits—before you graduate high school. To learn more or enroll, contact 916 Career & Tech directly at 651-415-5537 or talk to your high school counselor about registration and course options. careertech.916schools.org+1

What to Expect When You Apply

Once you’re ready to apply to a dental assistant program after high school (or as a high school senior via programs like 916), research the schools you’re interested in and note their application steps. Most programs require:

A completed application with your high school transcript (or GED),
Sometimes a special program application or interview,
Basic prerequisites such as a high school diploma or equivalent,
And occasionally math/English placement or GPA minimums depending on the school.

For community colleges like Century College, you’ll submit a general admissions application and the specific dental assisting program application (with deadlines announced each year). In contrast, private institutions like Herzing University may have rolling admissions, meaning you can apply when you’re ready.

Local Programs in the Twin Cities to Consider

Here are some great programs right here in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area where you can earn a diploma or degree in dental assisting:

Century College (White Bear Lake/St. Paul area) – Offers both Diploma and Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Dental Assisting with competitive admission and hands-on clinic experience. Century College
Herzing University (Minneapolis) – Provides Dental Assisting Diploma and Associate degree options with hybrid and on-campus formats. Herzing University
Hennepin Technical College (Brooklyn Park/Eden Prairie) – Offers both diploma and A.A.S. dental assistant programs with clinical externships and preparation for certification. Hennepin Technical College
Minneapolis College – Has dental assistant certificate and diploma pathways, building foundational skills and preparing you for national and state board exams. MCTC

Each of these programs has its own admissions process, so check their admissions offices or websites for current contact information and steps to apply.

Why Dental Assisting Is a Great Career

Choosing dental assisting means stepping into a rewarding medical support role with a relatively fast educational path—many diploma programs take about a year or less to complete. You’ll gain both technical skills (like chairside assisting, radiology basics, infection control, and dental materials) and interpersonal experience with patients. While in school, you’ll often complete externships or clinical experiences that give you real practice in dental offices.

Dental assistants tend to be detailed, empathetic, good communicators, and comfortable working on a team. The career offers solid job prospects and can be a stepping stone to other dental and healthcare careers (like dental hygiene or dental office management). For many students, it’s also a great way to start earning while continuing education or exploring future roles in dentistry.

Your Path to a Dental Hygiene Career: From High School to Graduation

By. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If you’re excited by the idea of helping people improve their oral health, working closely with patients, and entering a respected healthcare profession, dental hygiene could be a great fit for you. Dental hygienists play a key role in preventive dental care—cleaning teeth, assessing oral health, educating patients, and working side-by-side with dentists in offices, clinics, and community health settings. To become a licensed dental hygienist in Minnesota, you’ll go through a structured educational process that includes foundational coursework, competitive program applications, and hands-on clinical training.

Start in High School: Courses and Skills That Set You Up for Success

Even before you graduate high school, you can begin preparing for dental hygiene programs. Taking strong science courses like biology with lab, chemistry, anatomy/physiology, and health sciences will give you a solid academic foundation for the biology and clinical coursework you’ll encounter later. Classes in English/communication, math, and psychology also help, since dental hygiene programs often include writing, patient communication, and statistics requirements at the college level. Although high school classes alone won’t let you enter most dental hygiene programs directly, they help you build the grades and study skills you’ll need for college prerequisites and competitive applications. Additionally, developing manual dexterity, attention to detail, and strong interpersonal communication skills now will serve you well once you begin clinical training and begin working with patients.

Choosing Between Degree Options: Associate vs. Bachelor’s

When you’re ready to enroll in a dental hygiene program, you’ll generally see two types of degrees available:

Associate’s Degree (AAS or AS) – This is the most common pathway. It typically takes about two years of professional coursework after you complete prerequisite classes and leads directly to eligibility for licensure as a dental hygienist. These programs focus on clinical skills like assessments, cleanings, radiography, local anesthesia, and patient education. Century College+1
Bachelor’s Degree (BSDH) – A bachelor’s degree usually involves a longer program with broader coursework, including general education and possibly research, leadership, or community health classes. A bachelor’s degree can expand your opportunities beyond clinical care, such as roles in education, public health, management, research, or advanced practice. Metropolitan State University+1 dentistry.umn.edu

Programs like Century College offer an Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene with a dual admission track that connects you to a Bachelor of Science pathway with Metropolitan State University so you can plan ahead if you want the bachelor’s credential.

Applying to Programs Near Minneapolis–St. Paul

There are several reputable dental hygiene programs in or near the Twin Cities where you can begin your journey:

Century College (White Bear Lake/St. Paul area) – Offers an Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene that prepares you for licensure and includes clinical experience. They also partner with Metropolitan State for bachelor’s options. Century College
Normandale Community College (Bloomington area) – Provides an Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene with an option to transition into a bachelor’s degree through collaboration with Metropolitan State University. normandale-prod.azurewebsites.net
Herzing University (Minneapolis) – Offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program on campus in Minneapolis that includes hands-on labs, clinical experience, and preparation for licensure. Herzing University
University of Minnesota School of Dentistry – Delivers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (accelerated 3-year format) with a competitive admission process and an annual cohort of students. dentistry.umn.edu

To apply, you’ll typically submit a general college application first, then a program-specific application with prerequisites completed (often anatomy, biology, chemistry, communication, and social sciences) and, at some schools, additional materials like essays or interviews.

Advantages of a Dental Hygiene Career and What It Takes

Becoming a dental hygienist offers many advantages. You’ll enter a growing healthcare field with strong job demand, frequent opportunities in private practices and community settings, meaningful patient interaction, and competitive wages. Dental hygienists have the chance to make a direct impact on patients’ oral and overall health while working in a profession that values professional autonomy, education, and preventive care.

To thrive in this career, you’ll want to be detail-oriented, compassionate, and comfortable working closely with patients. Strong communication skills, the ability to work as part of a healthcare team, and manual dexterity for clinical tasks are all attributes that help dental hygienists succeed. With the right preparation and a commitment to your education, you can move from high school aspirations to a rewarding career in oral health.

Considering a Career in Dentistry? Here’s What You Need to Know

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Considering a career in dentistry? We at Eggert Family Dentistry want to encourage others to share in this amazing career. Let’s go through an overview of the education, training, and skills necessary for a dental career, as well as some of the benefits of working in this field.

Why Choose a Career in Dentistry?

A career in dentistry offers a wide array of benefits and rewarding experiences. Dentistry is a unique blend of science, art, and meticulous hands-on care, requiring dentists to master techniques unique to their profession.

Dental professionals improve the lives of their patients, helping them smile with confidence. In each visit, a dentist can experience the satisfaction of positively impacting a patient’s life, whether that’s through preventative care, restorative procedures, pain reduction, or esthetic correction.

As a dentist, you have the opportunity to build long-term relationships with your patients—many dentists have the privilege of serving multiple generations within a single family! You also help contribute to the overall public health of your community.

In addition to these rewarding experiences, a dental career offers career stability, flexibility, and independence. In fact, dental careers have consistently appeared on U.S. News & World Report’s “100 Best Jobs” rankings.

Most dental school graduates choose to go into private practice, which offers independence and the ability to set and reach individual business and career goals.

Beyond private practice, the field of dentistry offers a wide range of clinical, research, and academic opportunities as well. For example, by engaging in dental education, you have the chance to help shape the future direction of oral healthcare. And in dental research, your work to discover new techniques and technologies can help advance the profession and create better oral health outcomes for millions of patients.

No matter which area of dentistry you choose, you will find a rewarding, challenging career that helps to make the world a better place.

Available Career Paths in Dentistry

The field of dentistry offers a variety of career paths, allowing you to choose a career that best suits your individual skills and interests. Each role in a dental office—whether you’re the dentist, dental hygienist, dental assistant, administrative team member, office manager, or lab technician—helps contribute to patient care in its own way.

Dentist: As the primary dental care provider, dentists care for and manage a patient’s overall oral health and often play a vital role in running the business of the dental office. Dentists help patients with preventative education, as well as restorative procedures like fillings, crowns, bridges, veneers, dentures and surgical procedures like root canals, extractions, implants. In addition, they routinely check patients for signs of oral, cranial, lymph, and neck-related health issues, such as cancer or gum disease.
Dental Hygienist: A dental hygienist is able to have a lot of one-on-one time with patients. They work closely with dentists to provide important aspects of oral care, such as cleanings and periodontal treatments as well as educating patients on maintaining good oral health.
Dental Assistant: Dental assistants support dentists in a variety of tasks, including preparing patients for and walking them through procedures, sterilizing instruments, taking x-rays and tooth impressions. Dental assistants work closely with the dentist during dental procedures and occasionally do help the dental office with administrative tasks.
Dental Lab Technician: Working behind the scenes, dental lab technicians are the ones who design and fabricate dental prosthetics like crowns, bridges, dentures, mouth guards, and other dental appliances according to the dentist’s specifications. Most dental lab technicians work outside of the dental office, often at a dental laboratory.
Dental Administrative Team Member: No dental office is complete without capable and friendly administrative team members. These workers keep the office running smoothly by helping patients schedule, coordinating payments and with insurance companies, and maintaining relationships with each patient.

In addition to these roles, there are several specialized areas of dentistry that require additional education and certification. These specialists include orthodontists, periodontists, endodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, pediatric dentists, facial pain specialists, and oral radiologists.

Education and Training Requirements to Be a Dentist

Becoming a dentist involves rigorous academic requirements as well as several years of practical education. Anyone interested in a dental career must first obtain a bachelor’s degree. It can be in any field, but most aspiring dentists opt for fields that help them complete the prerequisite courses they’ll need for dental school, such as biology or chemistry.

In addition, you must also complete the Dental Admissions Test (DAT) to be accepted into dental school. It’s generally recommended for students to take the DAT at least a year before applying to dental school. In addition, you’ll need to have a good GPA, some experience shadowing a dentist, and excellent recommendation letters.

Dental school is typically a four-year program, with the first two years consisting of basic instruction and lab work, and the final two years focusing on clinical studies.

Once you’ve completed dental school and receive either your Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree, you’ll need to pass the accepted licensing board examinations accepted by the state where you want to practice. There are both requirements for knowledge based written board examinations and clinical skill examinations like the CRDTS exam. Depending on the state you plan to practice in, there may be additional licensure requirements as well and you may even have to go before the Licensing Board of the state.

From there, you can either begin practicing dentistry or go on for additional schooling to become a specialist. To enter a specialty program, you’ll need to complete a residency after dental school, which can take anywhere from two to six years, depending on the specialty area you choose.

Continuing Education: Staying Current in a Changing Field

If you choose to enter the dental field, be prepared for a lifetime of learning. Even once you’ve completed your initial schooling, your dental education is not complete. The field of dentistry is constantly growing and changing, so there is always more to learn.

Taking regular workshops and CE courses (online or in-person)
Joining professional dental associations
Attending conferences
Participating in mentorship opportunities
Pursuing certification programs

These are all great ways to stay current on dental advancements, industry trends, and best practices. Through continuing education, you’ll gain valuable insights to better serve your patients, including learning the latest techniques and technologies available to you. Most states have a continuing education requirement each year to maintain a dental license. In Minnesota, dentists are required to log at least 50 hours every 2 years. Did you know, your dentists, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert in North Oaks, MN log more than double that amount?

You’ll also have important networking opportunities that help you understand the broader dental landscape so you can make informed decisions for your practice and stay up-to-date on regulatory and licensing requirements. Being part of a strong network of other dental professionals can bring new opportunities and offer invaluable advice to inform your career path.

Building the Right Skill Set

Working in the dental field requires a unique skill set consisting of a blend of technical skills and “soft” person-based skills.

Dental professionals need to be skilled in precision, dexterity, and attention to detail to properly care for their patients’ teeth. Whether you’re cleaning in between a patient’s teeth, filling a cavity, removing stains, or fixing bigger oral issues with bridges, crowns, or surgery, these skills are crucial in helping patients maintain good dental health.

In addition to these technical skills, soft skills like communication, compassion, and creativity are vital to ensure happy patients and a well-run dental office. Effective communication is necessary to deliver your expertise to patients in a way they can understand and apply it to their dental health. Clear communication also helps ensure effective collaboration with your dental team.

Treating patients with compassion is an important element as well. The dental office is often an anxiety-inducing place for patients of all ages, and your job is to reassure them, building trust and rapport so they feel comfortable seeking dental treatment. Listen actively, explain procedures clearly, and show empathy for their fears. Building positive patient relationships like this leads to better treatment outcomes for the patient and increased patient loyalty for your practice.

Finally, a creative mindset is useful in a dental practice, as you will often need to come up with creative solutions to a patient’s dental concerns. This may involve adapting a treatment plan to suit a patient’s lifestyle, designing dental appliances, or finding creative ways to make treatment more comfortable for the patient. No two patients are the same; your approach to their problems needs to follow suit.

Ready to Explore a Career in Dentistry?

If a career in dentistry sounds like something you’d like to pursue, spending some time with others in that field is a great first step.

Look for opportunities to intern, volunteer, or shadow a local dentist. This will give you an opportunity to explore the field further and determine if it’s something you’d like to pursue long-term. Plus, dental schools like to see applicants with experiences like these, because it shows they understand what is involved in practicing dentistry.

If you’re interested in mentorship or observation opportunities with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, Dr. Jeff Eggert, or another member of the Eggert Family Dentistry team, please feel free to reach out.

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!