Caring for your Teeth Archives - Page 2 of 14 - Eggert Family Dentistry Blog

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!

Can You Get Decay Under a Dental Crown?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

When you invest in a dental crown, you expect it to last for many years. Crowns are designed to restore both the look and function of your tooth, but did you know it’s still possible to get decay under a crown? Even though a crown itself cannot decay, the natural tooth structure underneath it is still vulnerable. If decay develops under the crown, it can compromise the health of your tooth and eventually require crown replacement.

Decay under a crown often happens when bacteria find their way to the margin where the crown meets your natural tooth. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque can build up along this edge and cause cavities just like it would on any other tooth. Excessive force from habits like grinding or clenching your teeth can also cause tiny openings or fractures in the crown or cause a breakdown in the marginal seal, creating space for bacteria to sneak in. Over time, these issues can lead to decay hidden beneath the crown.

On average, statistics suggest that dental crowns last between 10 and 15 years, although with excellent care, many can last even longer. The exact lifespan depends on a variety of factors including your oral hygiene, dietary habits, bite force, and how well the crown was initially placed. Even the best crowns are not indestructible, and wear and tear over time is normal. Think of all the chewing cycles your teeth go through every year, like tires on your car, they are not immune to wearing out or breaking down.

The best way to extend the life of your crown is to take care of it just like you would your natural teeth. Daily brushing and flossing are essential, especially around the gumline where bacteria like to gather. Using a night guard if you grind your teeth can protect your crowns from unnecessary force. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are equally important because they give your dentists at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN a chance to detect early signs of wear or decay before problems become serious.

Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert are committed to helping you maintain your crowns for as long as possible. During your recare exams, we carefully evaluate your crowns to make sure they are functioning properly and to look for any signs of decay. If a crown does need to be replaced, we work with you to ensure the process is smooth and your smile stays healthy and strong. By partnering with us and staying proactive about your dental care, you can enjoy the longest possible lifespan from your crowns.

Is it time for your recare exam or do you need to establish care with a caring dental office? Don’t delay! Call us at 651-482-8412 for an appointment today!

Deep Cavities and Conservative Treatment – John’s Story!

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

We met John back in 2013 when he was only 3 years old and needed some fillings on his primary (baby) teeth. After completing this treatment, unfortunately, his family moved out of state and we lost touch with him. Fast forward to this summer when his dad reached out for a second opinion because John was having a severe toothache. They sought out a dentist in Texas, where they live, but the recommendations were extreme, especially for a 15-year-old young man.

Here are the x-rays taken in Texas and sent to Dr. Elizabeth Eggert for a second opinion. It is easy to see the extreme decay in these images on multiple teeth. While Dr. Elizabeth was very concerned that the decay was so deep, it might be infecting the nerves of these teeth, she was also discouraged to hear that the other dental professionals had recommended extraction, or root canals and crowns for someone so young, without truly exploring what was happening in these teeth.

Luckily the family was headed to Minnesota for the summer and after a limited exam with Dr. Elizabeth, along with additional x-rays, it was determined that it was at least worth seeing how deep the decay was in these teeth to see if the teeth were working to protect their nerves by laying down protective layers of tooth structure.

Dr. Elizabeth had a serious conversation with John and his family about why John got infected with these cavities. To only attempt a repair without determining how to prevent serious issues like this in the future, would not help break the cycle. Tooth decay in teenagers is primarily caused by a combination of poor oral hygiene, frequent consumption of sugary foods and drinks, and the presence of bacteria in the mouth that produce acids that erode tooth enamel. In John’s case, the most likely culprit was the sugary candy he often consumed (and hid from his parents) as well as inconsistent dental care over the years.

What did he want?

John and his parents were hoping to avoid the extreme options presented by the dentists in Texas. Not only are the treatments recommended irreversible, but they would have been a huge investment and financial strain for the family. Therefore, they liked Dr. Elizabeth’s conservative option of decay excavation, which is almost like an exploratory surgery. If the decay hadn’t yet reached the nerve, or even if it still was just over the nerve canal system, with John’s young age, there would be a chance that his teeth could heal and protect the nerve if the decay is removed.

In Dr. Elizabeth’s mind, it is very important to attempt to preserve the natural tooth and root for as long as possible. Dr. Elizabeth recommended that they start with decay excavation on the three teeth with the deepest decay, do indirect pulp caps if needed, and finish the treatment with a composite buildup, which will help build back the tooth until the nerve has some time to heal and before a crown is done. This option gives John time to heal and see how well his teeth respond to the treatment.

What was involved?

Dr. Elizabeth saw John for multiple appointments to address as much decay as possible when he was in town. She started on John’s lower right side, where John had the most discomfort. The most interesting thing about John’s case was how deep the decay got internally without giving many outward signs until his toothaches started. These photos show the three teeth with the deepest decay. While there is evidence of “holes” or cavities forming, they do not appear to be as extreme as what the x-rays were showing. This likely kept John’s family from realizing the severity of John’s situation and why regular dental care is so important because it is likely that these areas of decay would have been caught much earlier.

Dr. Elizabeth removed the decay, but had to leave a small amount in order to avoid the nerve. This is called an indirect pulp cap and can help the tooth promote healing. A protective layer is placed over the decay with the hopes that the natural tooth structure will continue to lay down more natural protection. The amount of tooth lost to decay was extreme, but with ideal bonding ability, Dr. Elizabeth replaced the missing tooth structure with resin (composite) filling material for a buildup, knowing that if John is able to keep the infection away and keep his teeth, crowns will be in order in the future.

What does he think?

John and his family were so appreciative for the alternative and conservative treatment option. This definitely is a favorable result, although not necessarily conventional. Unfortunately, since John’s treatment was a unique approach, John’s family is still fighting for insurance coverage and they may never see the benefits they deserve. We are finding that more and more insurance policies place strict limits on what they will and will not cover. Still, John’s family believes this treatment was the right choice for them.

John and his family have gone back to Texas so we won’t be able to follow his treatment long-term. We hope he is able to keep his teeth for many more years to come and that his teeth cooperate and heal fully. John’s story is an important example of why it is very important to implement dental recare appointments at a very young age. These appointments are crucial for maintaining optimal oral health by catching problems early to help prevent serious long-term problems. We’re happy to have your trust John and we wish you the best!

Why Are So Many People Questioning Fluoride in Public Water Systems?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If you’ve noticed a growing conversation around removing fluoride from public water systems, you’re not alone. Across the country—and even globally—more individuals and communities are pushing back against water fluoridation, something that’s been standard practice in the U.S. since the 1940s. While fluoride has long been praised for its cavity-fighting benefits, a mix of health concerns, misinformation, and shifting public attitudes have led to renewed skepticism. Understanding the reasons behind this movement can help you make informed decisions about your own oral health.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we want you to understand the controversy, but also give you some facts about why water fluoridation is an important part of our current state of oral health. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, noted recently that “With an abrupt departure from water fluoridation, our nation would undoubtedly experience a rapidly rising incidence of decay. The US does not have capacity in the oral health workforce to support the emergency surgical and restorative dental needs that would result. There would be increased pain and suffering, and more missed school and work. None of this is necessary.”

One major reason you’re hearing more about anti-fluoride efforts is the rising concern about overexposure. Fluoride isn’t just in drinking water—it’s also found in many toothpastes, mouth rinses, processed foods, and even certain bottled beverages. This accumulation has raised fears about potential health risks, especially for children. However, a lot of the hype has been driven by political and social avenues rather than scientific perspectives.

Some people are also concerned about possible links between fluoride and broader health issues. Studies—many questionable—have suggested potential associations with thyroid dysfunction, bone fractures, and neurodevelopmental concerns like lower IQ in children. While the scientific community hasn’t reached a clear consensus on many of these points, the sheer volume of mixed messaging online can easily make fluoride feel more like a threat than a benefit.

Another factor driving this shift is the growing emphasis on personal choice and natural health. You may find yourself more drawn to filtered water, fluoride-free toothpaste, or alternative dental care options simply because you want more control over what goes into your body. This mindset has led many communities to re-evaluate whether mass fluoridation aligns with modern health values, especially when other preventive dental strategies—like good oral hygiene and access to professional care—are readily available.

It’s important to know, however, that fluoride still has strong support from many public health organizations. Groups like the CDC and the American Dental Association continue to endorse water fluoridation as a safe, cost-effective way to prevent tooth decay, especially in underserved populations. In fact, the CDC estimates that providing optimally fluoridated water to US communities for one year save $6.5 billion in dental treatment costs and that communities with water fluoridation experience 25% fewer cavities. If you’re unsure what’s right for you or your family, talking with your dentists at Eggert Family Dentistry is one of the best steps you can take. Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert want to help you weigh your personal risk factors and make recommendations tailored to your needs.

As dentists, we see the direct consequences that fluoride removal has on our patients and it’s a real tragedy when policymakers or popular “You Tubers” make decisions or share information that can hurt vulnerable kids and adults in the long term. Blindly calling for a ban on fluoridated water hurts people, costs money, and will ultimately harm our economy.

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert are committed to helping you stay informed and empowered. Our priority is your long-term oral health and we want to help you make confident choices for yourself and your loved ones. Please call us today to set up your next appointment! 651-482-8412!

Why Your Children Deserve Expert Dental Care at Eggert Family Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

As a parent, you want the very best for your children, and that includes making sure their dental health is in excellent hands from the very beginning. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert are passionate about helping children develop strong, healthy smiles that support their overall well-being. In fact, they welcome young patients as early as age one—an essential time to begin monitoring oral development. By starting early, you give your child the best chance at ideal dental health and growth.

Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff go beyond simply checking for cavities; they closely monitor your child’s oral development to ensure everything is progressing as it should. Issues like narrow jaws and other developmental concerns can often go unnoticed in a traditional pediatric dental setting. Unfortunately, these problems can lead to breathing issues, sleep disturbances, and long-term developmental challenges if left unaddressed. At Eggert Family Dentistry, your child’s growth and health are given the thorough attention they deserve.

What Are Some of the Tools We Use?

One of the most valuable assets Dr. Elizabeth brings to her young patients is her involvement as a founding member of the ASAP Pathway. This organization is dedicated to early intervention and comprehensive care to optimize children’s airway and craniofacial development. According to the ASAP Pathway, early signs such as mouth breathing, snoring, and restless sleep can be indicators of underlying developmental problems. Dr. Elizabeth uses this knowledge to evaluate and guide your child toward healthy development at each visit.

If your child shows signs of underdeveloped jaws or compromised airway function, Dr. Elizabeth may recommend a Myobrace treatment plan. Myobrace is a preventative orthodontic system that encourages natural growth and development through myofunctional therapy—often eliminating the need for more invasive orthodontics later on. By beginning this guidance early, Dr. Elizabeth can help redirect your child’s growth trajectory before orthodontics is even necessary.

How Else Can We Help Your Child?

Once your child is ready for orthodontic treatment, the Eggert’s remain actively involved. They work alongside your child’s orthodontist to closely monitor bite alignment and ensure everything is looking favorable before braces or Invisalign attachments are removed. This extra layer of oversight helps provide peace of mind and promotes long-term stability in your child’s smile and bite.

Many families wait until their children turn 18 to transition from a pediatric dentist, but by that time, it’s often too late to correct underlying developmental issues in a simple way. If your child is currently seeing a pediatric dentist, now is the perfect time to make the switch to Eggert Family Dentistry. Don’t wait until problems arise—Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff Eggert are here to proactively support your child’s oral health and whole-body wellness every step of the way. Call us today at 651.482.8412 and schedule your whole family today!

What Gingival Inflammation Means to Your Whole Body

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Inflammation is your body’s natural response to injury or infection, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to serious health complications—including those affecting your gums. Whole-body inflammation often manifests in the gingival tissues as redness, swelling, and bleeding. Unfortunately, this is a “silent disease” because often during the early stages of the disease, there is no pain. This is unfortunate because many people then overlook it until it has progressed to a more serious stage. Your oral health is deeply connected to your overall well-being, making it essential to recognize the early warning signs and take action.

When systemic inflammation affects your gums, you may notice tenderness, persistent bad breath, gum recession, or increased tooth sensitivity. These symptoms are often indicators of underlying conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders, which are all linked to chronic inflammation. Even if you don’t experience pain, your gums may still be at risk. Regular dental checkups can help detect subtle changes in your oral tissues before they escalate into severe periodontal disease.

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert, along with our skilled team of hygienists – Lea, Cassie, Emily, and Lisa, are trained to identify early signs of inflammation in your gingival tissues. We assess your gum health during routine exams, looking for telltale signs such as puffiness, discoloration, and excessive plaque buildup. By addressing these symptoms early, we can help you manage inflammation and prevent long-term damage to your gums and overall health.

One of the best ways to combat gum inflammation is by adopting a proactive oral hygiene routine. Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing daily, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce bacterial buildup and prevent your immune system from overreacting. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as leafy greens, fatty fish, and nuts, can support your body’s natural defenses against chronic inflammation.

Beyond oral hygiene, lifestyle choices play a crucial role in managing inflammation. Stress reduction techniques, such as mindfulness and regular exercise, can lower levels of inflammatory markers in your body. Staying hydrated and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol consumption can also help keep inflammation in check. If you have underlying health conditions that contribute to chronic inflammation, working with your medical providers as well as us at Eggert Family Dentistry will help manage them and will further protect your gums and overall health.

Your dental team at Eggert Family Dentistry is committed to helping you recognize and address gum inflammation before it leads to serious complications. Through regular professional cleanings, personalized care plans, and patient education, we empower you to take control of your oral and systemic health. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can reduce inflammation, protect your gums, and improve your overall quality of life. Call us today for your next appointment! 651-482-8412

The Surprising Ways Oral Health Influences Inflammatory Diseases

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

You know oral health is important, but what you may not realize is that oral health impacts overall wellness. Many studies link poor oral health to serious systemic issues, including diabetes and heart disease. The culprits? Harmful bacteria and inflammation. Let’s take a closer look!

The Oral-Systemic Connection

Poor dietary and lifestyle habits, preexisting health conditions, dry mouth, or infrequent dental care can cause harmful bacteria to build up in a person’s mouth. When these bacteria are allowed to persist, they easily infect gums, often leading to gum disease, also known as periodontitis. From that point, they can seep into the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body.

Anytime your body perceives a threat, it will begin an inflammatory process to protect that part of the body and promote healing. In the case of an injury, for example, the body rushes white blood cells to the site of an injury to protect it and promote healing. With chronic inflammation, however, white blood cells perceive a constant threat over time, often sending white blood cells into nearby organs and systems. This can harm surrounding tissues and damage organs.

When harmful bacteria lodge in the gums, an inflammatory process begins. When these bacteria move through your bloodstream into other parts of your body, inflammation follows.

Thus, what begins as oral negligence can result in inflammatory diseases throughout the body.

Key Inflammatory Diseases Linked to Oral Health

Diabetes: Diabetes is a common inflammatory disease that can be linked to oral health…and it’s a two-way street.

People with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk for gum disease. That’s because higher glucose levels in the body mean higher glucose levels in the mouth. Elevated sugar levels in the mouth make it a more habitable place for harmful bacteria to grow and thrive, often leading to periodontal disease.

In another scenario, poor oral care can lead to periodontal disease, causing elevated blood sugar, contributing to insulin resistance, and leading to the development of diabetes or making diabetes more difficult to control.

Heart Disease: Heart disease is another inflammatory disease that can result from untreated gum disease. In fact, periodontitis increases a person’s risk for cardiovascular disease by 20%.

It all begins when harmful bacteria enter the bloodstream through inflamed gums and cause plaque to build up on the artery walls. When this plaque builds up, the artery walls narrow, restricting blood flow. This scenario puts a person at a higher risk of a heart attack or stroke. Bacteria can also build up on the heart valves, resulting in endocarditis.

Alzheimer’s Disease: Gum disease results in the formation of the bacteria porphyromonas gingivalis. These bacteria produce a toxic enzyme known as gingipains. Gingipains contribute to the buildup of beta-amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. When gingipains migrate to the brain, they can damage nerve cells essential for memory, leading to memory loss and, over time, Alzheimer’s disease.

Preventative Care to Protect Your Health

While the thought of oral health issues going systemic might make you nervous, prevention starts with simple steps that help you keep your mouth healthy!

Brush, floss, and swish with mouthwash daily to remove food particles before they turn into plaque, harden into tartar, and trap bacteria under the gum line, leading to gum disease.
Limit the consumption of sugars and acidic foods. Avoid smoking, vaping, and other unhealthy lifestyle habits.
Visit Eggert Family Dentistry for routine professional cleanings. During these visits, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert will look closely for any inflammation or early signs of gum disease. They’re equipped with the knowledge and tools to help you maintain—or reclaim—a healthy mouth!

As we approach World Oral Health Day on Thursday, March 20, we want to empower you to take charge of your oral health and for a healthier mouth, a healthier body, and a happier life! Schedule your next recare visit with Eggert Family Dentistry by calling us at 651.482.8412.

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:

We start by determining your teeth’s current shade.
We prep your mouth and apply a thin layer of whitening gel.
We illuminate your teeth with a blue LED light to accelerate the whitening process.
We repeat this process three times in 15-minute intervals.
We verify you’ve obtained your desired shade.
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!