Cosmetic Dentistry Archives - Eggert Family Dentistry Blog

“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.

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.”

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.

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).

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.

Now, Getting Ready for College – Elena’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Elena came to Eggert Family Dentistry at the age of 15 as a referral from our orthodontic colleague, Dr. DeVoe. Dr. DeVoe wanted Dr. Elizabeth Eggert to evaluate restorative options for Elena because she is congenitally missing (was born without) one of her lateral front teeth and her lateral incisor on the other size is undersized. Dr. DeVoe anticipated that Elena would want a solution for her smile after her braces were removed.

A congenitally missing tooth is one of the most common dental developmental abnormalities. In fact, roughly 20% of adults have at least one tooth that never developed. Why is that number so high? Well, we’ve all heard of that person who didn’t develop all, if any, wisdom teeth. If you take wisdom teeth out of the picture, the percentage of adults with congenitally missing teeth drops to only 5%. Other permanent teeth we often see missing are second premolars, upper lateral incisors, and lower central incisors.

A wisdom tooth that never develops would typically be thought of as a good thing – one less tooth to remove! However, being a person with a missing front tooth can be quite a different story. Teenage years are difficult enough without having to worry about your smile. With the emotional roller coaster of being a teen, we need to give our children any excuse to smile and no reason not to!

What was recommended?

Dr. Elizabeth had some options for Elena for replacing her missing tooth. One option was to use a “flipper,” which is a removable partial denture that contains one or more artificial teeth. A flipper is often made from denture acrylic and can blend in well with your smile. The flipper is custom made using an impression or digital scan of your mouth. Flippers can be uncomfortable to wear and they do come in and out of the mouth, which can be inconvenient.

To replace missing teeth, you can also consider a bridge. A traditional bridge uses the neighboring teeth as anchors to “fill in the gap.” Since Elena was still growing and developing, a traditional bridge wasn’t Dr. Elizabeth’s first choice. A more conservative option for Elena’s age was to consider a composite bonded bridge, which still stays fixed in the mouth like a traditional bridge, but is much more conservative for neighboring teeth and can more easily be altered with growth, if needed.

Another common method to replace missing teeth is to use a dental implant. With a dental implant, a small post, usually made of titanium, is placed into the jaw bone and serves as a substitute for the root of the tooth. Then, through a series of attachments, a tooth is added to the implant. Again, because of Elena’s age, a dental implant wasn’t indicated…yet, anyway.

Dr. Elizabeth discussed pros and cons with Elena and her mom of these options and emphasized that something would have to be done to last through Elena’s teenage and early adulthood, even though a dental implant may be the best long-term approach.

What did Elena want?

For the undersized lateral on her right side, composite bonding was done to change the shape and size of the tooth. A porcelain veneer could have been done, but with Elena’s age, the composite material can more easily be changed, if needed, for future growth and development. As an adult, Elena could choose to convert her composite bonding to a porcelain veneer for ideal color match. After much discussion, Elena and her mom decided that for her missing tooth on her left side, Elena would use a flipper during the day and an orthodontic retainer at night.

Then what happened?

Throughout Elena’s high school career, she found it was inconvenient for her to wear her flipper and she also didn’t wear her retainer much so her teeth moved somewhat. In thinking of her life after high school, Elena wanted to review her options. Elena and her dad came to consult with Dr. Elizabeth she told Dr. Elizabeth, “I am interested in a bridge now.” Once again, Dr. Elizabeth reviewed Elena’s options in regards to how the most conservative approach would still be preferred. Dr. Elizabeth recommended that Elena complete a composite bonded bridge. Dr. Elizabeth would be able to artistically create a “fake” tooth and attach it her surrounding teeth. This choice is good for the esthetics and will buy Elena some time until she is older and can make some alternate decisions, if needed.

What does she think?

When asked how Elena felt about getting the procedures done, she said “I was looking forward to my tooth looking like a normal sized tooth.” She also said that her mom had a bridge done and so she was not worried about it. “I like it a lot and it looks good. It doesn’t feel weird to my bite. It does not feel weird when I chew or eat.” She is really happy to have her palate free! She would recommend that anyone needing the same or similar treatment done go for it. She says, “I like it! It’s nice to have a normal smile where all my teeth are a normal size.”

Congratulations on your amazing results Elena and thank you for putting your trust in us! We are delighted to help you move into your college years!

Composite Bonded Bridges: A Unique Solution for Missing Teeth at Eggert Family Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If you or your child has congenitally missing teeth, finding the right solution can feel overwhelming. Many dental providers only offer traditional bridges or implants as options, but at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert offer a unique alternative—composite bonded bridges. These innovative bridges are a rare treatment option, with only a few providers in the country offering them. We’ve been working with teenagers for years, helping them navigate these transitional years with confidence by covering up the gaps caused by missing teeth.

What makes composite bonded bridges so special? Unlike traditional bridges, they don’t require significant alteration of neighboring teeth. Instead, a composite material is carefully bonded to adjacent teeth, creating a natural-looking replacement that fills in the gap seamlessly. This is especially beneficial for younger patients who may not be ready for permanent solutions like implants. A composite bonded bridge provides a non-invasive way to restore the look and function of their smile without permanent changes to their developing teeth.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we understand how difficult it can be for teenagers to deal with missing teeth, particularly during such formative years. Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff Eggert have been perfecting this technique to ensure that your child can smile confidently and enjoy life without worrying about gaps in their smile. Composite bonded bridges offer a conservative, affordable solution that allows your child to transition through their teenage years without feeling self-conscious about their teeth.

If your child has been struggling with congenitally missing teeth, know that there is a solution beyond the typical options. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we’re proud to offer this specialized treatment to our patients, and we’re here to help your child feel confident and comfortable. Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff Eggert have the experience and expertise to guide you through this process, ensuring your child’s smile looks natural and beautiful as they grow. Be sure to check out Elena’s Story this month, our patient of the month, and call us today should you find you need this unique treatment option! 651-482-8412!

“Say Cheese!” – Composite Bonding and Veneers – Grace and Abigail’s Stories

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

What happens when you are young, undergoing orthodontics, and there is what we call a “space/size discrepancy?” A “space/size discrepancy” is when teeth are narrower than the space your tongue and muscles need to function properly. When this occurs, it usually is best to allow your tongue to have the space, otherwise the teeth will move later and orthodontic relapse is guaranteed. What this means, however, is due to the narrow shape of the teeth, spaces between the teeth will be present. Luckily, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert of North Oaks, MN have great solutions for this situation. Generally, we need to change the shape of the teeth with restorations and close these spaces. With young patients, due to expected changes in growth and development over time, we often recommend composite bonding, also known as composite veneers. This procedure allows for the perfect smile. This month, we share two patient stories – Grace and Abigail. Both of these lovely young ladies found themselves in this situation, with spaces between teeth after orthodontics due to a “space/size discrepancy.” With composite veneers done by Dr. Elizabeth, they now have the confidence they need when it’s time to “Say Cheese!”

How did this start? – Grace

Grace came to us already in the middle of her orthodontic treatment. She had been going to the pediatric clinic and her orthodontist, Dr. DeVoe, informed her and her family that she would have spaces present between her teeth after orthodontics. They were told that the pediatric dentist wasn’t prepared to handle this situation and through friends found Dr. Elizabeth. Her first appointment with Dr. Elizabeth was to verify her current status. Dr. Elizabeth suggested a few movement tweaks she wanted from Dr. DeVoe before the braces came off. Dr. Elizabeth then confirmed tooth positions and the braces were ready to come off.

What did she want?

Grace had spacing around her upper lateral incisors due to the narrow shape of her laterals. While spaces like this don’t have a negative impact on your oral health, they can affect confidence and speech. Grace wanted her teeth to be fuller and the spaces closed. She also noticed that her gum tissue was very thick and “bulbous” in the area of the spaces when the braces came off and she was hoping this could be fixed as well. Finally, Grace wondered about the color of her teeth, noting that she was hoping her teeth could be brighter.

What was involved?

The first thing to address was the gum tissue. Dr. Elizabeth suggested that Grace use a rubber-tip tool to stimulate her gums for a few weeks. The extra gum stimulation allowed Grace’s thick gum tissue to heal and shrink. Grace was dedicated to using her rubber-tip tool and the results were beautiful and healthy gum tissue. Alternatively, a laser procedure could have been done for the gum tissue, but this was not needed for Grace!

To help Grace and her family visualize the end result, Dr. Elizabeth did a mock-up of what restorations for the front four teeth would look like and she was able to simulate this scenario in Grace’s mouth before moving to final restorations. Dr. Elizabeth did a couple of simulations looking at what Grace’s tooth shape and size would be if restorations were only done for the lateral incisors vs having restorations placed on the front four teeth. Being able to share spacing with 4 teeth instead of only 2 allowed Dr. Elizabeth not only to create more natural tooth width proportions, but also allowed her to increase the length of Grace’s central incisors a little as well. Because Grace is still a teenager and will be moving into adulthood, Dr. Elizabeth recommended composite veneers at this time and discussed with her that she will likely want to move to porcelain veneers sometime in her life.

Grace started bleaching using over-the-counter white strips and shortly after the mock-up appointment, Grace and her mom returned for a two-hour procedure and in that short amount of time, Dr. Elizabeth bonded composite resin material to Graces front 4 teeth to change the tooth size and shape. Like the mock-up, the composite filled in the gaps as well as lengthened Grace’s central incisors.

What does Grace think?

Grace was very pleased with her results. “It went really well – and even better than I expected! It was really worth it. Also, it didn’t hurt at all!” Grace was able to undergo the procedure without getting numb so she was very excited not to have to get a “dredded shot.” Grace notes that she would tell her friends underoing a similar procedure not to worry at all, it goes really smoothly.

How did this start? – Abigail

Abigail’s parents have been long-time patients of Dr. Elizabeth, but Abigail didn’t become a patient until the fall of 2017 as she had been going to the pediatric clinic. She was interested in getting braces on and had questions about the gaps in her front teeth. Dr. Elizabeth referred Abigail to Dr. Wahl, another local orthodontist for a consultation. Abigail noted that she noticed herself clenching and grinding her teeth. She also had a history of some speech issues because she was born with a tight connection of her tongue to the floor of her mouth. This is also known as ankyloglossia, or tongue-tied. What does a tongue-tie do to your teeth? Most often, we see patients with untreated tongue and lip ties needing braces to properly align crowded, crooked teeth caused by a narrow palate. Since the tongue is held so tightly to the floor of the mouth, it often can’t rest at the roof of the mouth and development and speech are affected.

What did she want?

Even after orthodontics, Dr. Wahl was not able to close the spaces between Abigail’s front four teeth because of her “space/size discrepancy.” Abigail has undersized laterals as well as narrow central incisors and forward swallowing forces due to her tongue limitations. Abigail preferred to have the spaces closed, however, to help improve her esthetics. Orthodontics was able to improve her overall bite, as well as perfect the tooth positions before addressing the spacing with restorations. Improving her bite excited Abigail because she had a fair amount of jaw pain and occasionally she noticed that her jaw would lock up on her.

What was involved?

Once Dr. Wahl completed orthodontics, Dr. Elizabeth helped Abigail and her family visualize what was possible with restorations. Abigail and her parents weren’t sure they were ready to commit to 4 restorations, worrying about being conservative, as well as the overall investment. Abigail also noted that “having smaller teeth is part of my identity.” Dr. Elizabeth was concerned that by only addressing two teeth with restorations, that the lateral incisors would look wide and out-of-proportion. She was also worried that by doing no restorations, Abigail’s teeth would continue to move over time, shifting to positions out of ideal function. Dr. Elizabeth suspected that this would cause Abigail’s jaw pain and jaw locking to return. Therefore, Dr. Elizabeth waxed up and simulated both restoration options. She did a simulation for 2 teeth only on Abigail’s left side and a simulation for 4 teeth on Abigail’s right side. After some contemplation, Abigail and her family agreed that the spacing for only 2 restorations was not preferred and they agreed to complete 4 composite veneers. Composite (resin) veneers can be used to correct gapped, chipped, poorly shaped, and stained teeth. They can be created chairside and can often be placed in as little as one visit.

Abigail is known to breathe more through her mouth, this creates more plaque on the teeth, therefore, it is important to be especially diligent with brushing and flossing. Dr. Elizabeth reminded Abigail of this throughout treatment because this will also help her future restorations be more successful. The presence of plaque can lead to compromised esthetics, bonding, and overall outcome. Abigail also still had to work hard on her tongue position to help keep her teeth from moving. Abigail was great about doing tongue exercises with her speech therapist.

When she was ready, Abigail returned for a two-hour procedure and in that short amount of time, Dr. Elizabeth bonded composite resin material to Abigail’s front 4 teeth to change the tooth size and shape. Like the mock-up, the composite filled in Abigail’s spacing. Abigail did not do any bleaching before her composite veneer procedure, but she did want to go just slightly lighter with the shade for her restorations. Also, the decision to move to 4 composite veneers was made after Abigail’s orthodontics had already come off. If possible, Dr. Elizabeth would have liked a little more tooth movement to help Abigail’s central incisor gingival positions be more level.

What does Abigail think?

Abigail is very pleased with her results. She wasn’t really sure what she was getting herself into and was afraid that it was going to hurt. But, in the end, she says “I am glad I did it and I would recommend it, my bite feels so much better and I am glad the veneers can help it stay that way.” It’s so rewarding when we cannot only help people get out of pain, but when we can help create that winning smile while doing so!

Congratulations Grace and Abigail – you both look magnificent! Thank you for putting your trust in us! It’s always our pleasure to work with you!

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

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

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

What did Cathy want?

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

What was involved?

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

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

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

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

What does Cathy think?

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

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

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

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

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

What is laser dentistry?

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

How does laser dentistry work?

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

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

What are the benefits of laser dentistry?

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

Benefits include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Crown Longevity: How to Make Your Dental Crown Investment Last

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

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

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

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

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

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

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

In addition to supporting weak or decaying teeth, crowns:

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

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

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

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

1. Keep up with daily dental care.

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

2. Avoid chewy, sticky, hard foods.

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

3. Minimize acidic and sugary foods.

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

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

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

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

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

5. Prioritize your recare visits at Eggert Family Dentistry.

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

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

How Long Can You Expect Your Dental Crown to Last?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

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

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

What Are Some Reasons Crowns Need to be Replaced?

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

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

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

What Happens to Replace a Crown?

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

Have More Questions About Crowns? Call Us Today!

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

Exploring the Fascinating History of Dental Crowns

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

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

Early History

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

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

What Makes These Materials Great for Replacing Teeth?

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

How Are Crowns Fabricated?

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

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