Cosmetic Dentistry Archives - Eggert Family Dentistry Blog

Why Cannabis Use Can Make Dental Numbing More Difficult—and How We Help You Stay Comfortable

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

No matter what side of the argument you might be on – you can’t ignore all the references and now availability of marijuana products ever since cannabis was legalized in Minnesota in 2023. Unfortunately, we’re noticing a change in how we have to do dentistry because of these new laws. When you come in for dental treatment, one of the most important factors for a smooth and comfortable experience is effective local anesthesia. What many people don’t realize is that using marijuana, THC, cannabis, or related products can directly affect how well dental numbing works. If you use these substances regularly or close to your appointment time, you may find that getting fully numb is more difficult, which can make dental procedures longer, more uncomfortable, and more challenging to complete.

Cannabis interacts with your nervous system and pain receptors in ways that can interfere with local anesthetics. THC can alter how your body processes medications and may increase your tolerance to numbing agents. This means you may need more anesthetic than usual, or the numbness may wear off faster than expected. For you, this can translate into increased sensitivity during treatment, even when everything is being done correctly. It also makes your dental procedure less safe and makes it much harder for Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert to do their best job for you.

Another concern is that cannabis use can increase anxiety, heart rate, and blood pressure in some people—especially in a dental setting where stress may already be present. If you are feeling tense or anxious, your body may respond by making it harder for anesthesia to work effectively. This combination of altered pain response and heightened anxiety can make dental care more difficult than it needs to be.

The good news is that there are many safe and effective ways to reduce dental anxiety without interfering with anesthesia. You can focus on slow, controlled breathing, listen to music or podcasts during your appointment, and communicate openly about what makes you nervous. Scheduling morning appointments, limiting caffeine beforehand, and practicing relaxation techniques (without cannabis) can also make a big difference in how calm and comfortable you feel.

It’s especially important that you are honest with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert about any marijuana or THC use, even if it feels uncomfortable to mention. This information helps your dental team make the safest decisions for your care, adjust treatment plans if needed, and avoid unnecessary discomfort. Our number one goal is your safety and to ensure your treatment goes as smoothly as possible. Withholding important information about your use of recreational substances seriously impacts results.

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, you are in expert hands. Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert have extensive experience helping patients feel comfortable, informed, and safe during dental care. They understand how medications, substances, and anxiety can affect your treatment, and they take the time to personalize your care. By working together and communicating openly, you can achieve excellent dental outcomes—comfortably and confidently. Please call us today with any questions about this topic or to schedule your next appointment with Eggert Family Dentistry – 651-482-8412!

Finding the Right Fit – Eugene’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Family is at the heart of everything we do at Eggert Family Dentistry. When Eugene came to us for his comprehensive treatment, he joined his daughter and granddaughter, who have trusted our practice for more than a decade. Caring for three generations in one family is a true honor and we are amazed at how often this happens for us.

Eugene wanted his teeth to fit together and to fix or change his overbite. He also was concerned because he noticed that his lower teeth were chipping and fracturing and when his last dentist attempted to repair the teeth, they fractured again right away. Eugene met with Dr. Elizabeth for a comprehensive exam and she noticed how his bite put a lot of stress on his teeth. She also was concerned about the bridge on Eugene’s upper front teeth. The bridge was replacing two teeth, but unfortunately was getting a lot of decay and Dr. Elizabeth wasn’t sure if there would be enough tooth structure to attempt another bridge.

To further complicate the treatment and Eugene’s options, his daughter told us that Eugene sometimes has a difficult time remembering discussions so she wanted to be present as much as possible. This situation is common and something we are dealing with more and more as many patients are getting into their 80’s and 90’s, but it definitely can slow progress.

What did Eugene want?

Initially, Eugene really wanted to attempt to save as many of his teeth as possible. He was very concerned about a tooth on his lower left that had fractured many times and he was happy to now be going to the same office as his daughter. Eugene also wasn’t sure that he would be able to tolerate any type of denture option since he was used to having his teeth all solid in his mouth. He also was concerned about the possibility of not having front teeth for awhile since his upper tooth bridge could fracture from the decay so he was motivated to do something!

Eugene wanted to make independent decisions since he believed he was still the best one to make decisions about him. Eugene is in his 80’s and while he wanted what was best for him, there were questions from the family about how much dentistry “would be really worth it?”

What was recommended?

Eugene needed to start with better gum tissue health since he was starting to get early periodontal disease. After his initial cleanings and better work on his part at home, his gum tissue started looking much more healthy.

Because Eugene’s bite was the main reason for his many fracturing teeth, Dr. Elizabeth told him that she needed more information to help generate treatment options. In a case where there is the potential for multiple teeth to be lost, Dr. Elizabeth recommends her patients undergo The Records Process. This helps her see things from all angles and to really get a sense of how we can stabilize the bite while undergoing treatment. If the bite isn’t stable, the muscles, joints, and teeth often continue in a pattern of destruction.

Eugene’s first step was to obtain stability. Stability in his bite would help him eliminate muscle spasms and pain and it would help us determine a good position of where to rebuild teeth. To help obtain stability for his muscles, splint therapy with an Anterior Deprogrammer was recommended. The Anterior Deprogrammer works to keep the back teeth apart so the muscles and joints can relax and become better coordinated.

As Eugene underwent this treatment, we also spent time determining the extent of the decay with his upper bridge and unfortunately, it was determined that 2 teeth would need to be extracted as they were no longer healthy enough to withstand treatment. Eugene had a temporary bridge made for awhile, but then agreed to have the teeth extracted and try a temporary partial denture “just to see how that is.” Dr. Elizabeth thought this would be a good option so he could try out removeable options. Not all people can tolerate dentures of any sort and this would help us know about Eugene.

Eugene also had treatment options like implants or a new bridge to replace his upper front teeth, but Dr. Elizabeth wasn’t sure that Eugene’s bite could be made stable enough for these options without jaw surgery. Eugene didn’t want to think about jaw surgery, but he really wanted an option that would stay in his mouth. In the end, he agreed to the temporary partial denture and Dr. Elizabeth was happy he was willing to try something new. It also helped Eugene to undergo the splint therapy with the Anterior Deprogrammer because then he had practice with something that went in and out of his mouth. Dr. Elizabeth really worked to help both Eugene and his daughter understand all his options and showed them many videos of different treatment options. In the end, they decided to try the denture options.

What was involved?

Some trial and error was needed for Eugene and we addressed his upper arch first before his lower arch. A temporary partial denture was fabricated for his upper teeth and was ready to go into his mouth on the day of his extraction appointment. After that, Dr. Elizabeth tried working through a partial denture for Eugene’s lower arch that would help improve his overbite. Unfortunately, when it came down to it, Eugene was just not able to tolerate that new position.

Therefore, another temporary partial denture was fabricated for his lower arch. Since we were unable to change Eugene’s original bite positions, there was no room to fix his lower front teeth. He had those teeth extracted as well and the temporary partial denture was ready to insert right away. Eugene did fairly well with his partial dentures, but needed quite a few adjustment appointments as he (and his tissues) got used to wearing the new devices.

Eugene’s temporary partial denture for his upper arch has been holding up well. Unfortunately, Eugene’s bony anatomy and his ability to generate forces caused his lower tooth temporary partial denture to break. Dr. Elizabeth had mentioned from the start that Eugene might have to invest in the strongest denture material so he wasn’t surprised. Luckily, he was able to make the decision to move to the strongest partial denture option – a cast metal partial denture – after trusting that a partial denture would work for him.

What does Eugene think?

“Before the procedure, I knew something had to be done because my teeth were breaking, but until I saw Dr. Elizabeth’s presentation, I didn’t realize how bad things really were. At first, the process was confusing because there were so many options and I didn’t fully understand what was happening, but she worked hard to help us understand and as time went on, I began to appreciate both the process and Dr. Elizabeth so much! I am glad I put my trust in her.”

Eugene also told us that he believes he truly believes the partial dentures were the right option for him. “They look nice and I’m so happy to be able to smile again.” It took awhile for Eugene to understand the benefits, but the investment was significantly less than other options like implants or bridges so he was happy to save some money.

Eugene told us that if he were talking to someone considering working with Dr. Elizabeth to complete a lot of dental work, he’d say, “You probably won’t like it at first, but as time goes on, you’ll really understand because of the process Dr. Elizabeth uses – and you’ll really appreciate her too in the end!”

Thanks for your honest feedback Eugene – it’s been a pleasure restoring you back to a healthier smile! We look forward to working with you and your family for many more years to come!

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!

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

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

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

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

What did Lars and Anders want?

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

What was involved?

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

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

What do they think?

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

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

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!

The Evolution of Veneers: What’s Happened in the Last 20 Years?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If you’ve ever dreamed of achieving a stunning, confident smile, porcelain veneers may be the perfect solution—and they’ve come a long way in the past two decades. Veneers, which are thin shells bonded to the front of your teeth, were once limited in both material and appearance. But thanks to advances in dental technology and materials, veneers today look more natural, last longer, and require less alteration to your natural tooth structure than they did 20 years ago.

In the early 2000s, veneers were typically made from composite resin or early-generation porcelain. While these materials offered cosmetic improvements, they were often thicker, more opaque, and not as durable. Today, modern veneers are typically crafted from advanced porcelain materials like lithium disilicate (often branded as emax). This material provides superior strength, lifelike translucency, and longevity—meaning your smile looks more natural and can last well over a decade with proper care.

Choosing veneers can offer you many benefits beyond just esthetics. Veneers can correct a variety of dental issues, including discoloration, chips, gaps, misalignment, and worn teeth. They’re custom-made to match your ideal tooth shape and shade, allowing you to design the smile you’ve always wanted. Plus, modern techniques allow for minimal tooth reduction, preserving more of your natural tooth structure than ever before.

It’s no surprise that many celebrities have turned to veneers to perfect their smiles. Stars like Tom Cruise, Miley Cyrus, and Zac Efron are known to have undergone smile makeovers that included at least some veneers. These transformations have made veneers a popular option not just for the rich and famous, but for anyone looking to boost their confidence and improve their appearance. Whether you’re prepping for a wedding, an important presentation, or just want to love your smile more, veneers offer a dramatic yet natural-looking upgrade.

How Eggert Family Dentistry Can Help

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert specialize in transforming lives with cosmetic treatments like porcelain veneers. They take a comprehensive, personalized approach to ensure your new smile complements your facial features, personality, and oral health goals. Their expertise and attention to detail have helped countless patients achieve beautiful, functional results they can be proud of.

If you’re considering a smile transformation, now is the perfect time to explore what veneers can do for you. Many patients who come in hoping for a Tom Cruise–level transformation leave with a boost in confidence, better function, and lasting esthetic results. With advancements in materials and techniques, and the skilled hands of the team at Eggert Family Dentistry, you can experience the life-changing confidence of a flawless smile with minimal reduction to your natural teeth. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward becoming the best version of yourself—starting with your smile.

If you’re inspired by what Tom Cruise, Miley Cyrus, and Zac Efron achieved, imagine what the personalized expertise and attention at Eggert Family Dentistry can do for you. Whether you’re dealing with slight misalignment, discoloration, spacing, or simply want to enhance your smile, veneers combined with a tailored treatment plan—just like theirs—could be your path to a transformation. Call us today at 651-482-8412 so we can help YOU shine too!

“My Teeth are Chipping, What Can We Do?” – Tim’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Tim has been a patient with Eggert Family Dentistry since the early 2000’s. Up until recently he had only been in for his recare appointments and a few restorations, but then he started noticing that his front teeth were chipping. He wanted to know what he could do to address it. As we age, our teeth naturally undergo changes that can affect our appearance and health. These changes include enamel thinning, increased risk of cavities and gum disease, tooth discoloration, and of course chipping. Proactive oral hygiene and regular dental visits can help mitigate these effects and maintain a healthy smile throughout life, but sometimes intervention is needed.

Tim discussed the issue with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert of Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN and she invited Tim to undergo the Records Process. She noticed things about Tim’s smile and jaw that would be contributing to his chipping. His current tooth positions and a history of acid erosion on his teeth were especially to blame. She let him know that over time he would continue to have wear and chipping on his front teeth and as they got smaller, he would in turn have excessive forces on his back teeth. Tim wanted to learn more so he took her advice and started the Records Process.

What did he want?

Tim had not really given much thought to his teeth beyond the functionality of them such as eating and speaking, but it was important to him to keep his teeth long term. He only became aware of the chipping a few years ago, even though the process started long ago. Through the Records Process, Dr. Elizabeth helped him better understand what is happening with his muscles, jaws, and teeth and how they all relate to each other. He wanted to understand why the chipping was occurring and he wanted to be able to keep his teeth healthy for the long-haul.

What was involved?

The Records Process helped us gather information about how Tim uses his teeth and we found that the narrowness of his upper and lower jaws put his teeth in a position that put the edges at risk for chipping. Many times, people with a narrow arch produce more acid, which also thins the enamel, making it more prone to wear, tear, and chipping.

Tim’s teeth needed to change position before the chipping could adequately be addressed. Invisalign was recommended as a conservative and convenient way to move his teeth. After completing splint therapy with an anterior deprogrammer to verify his muscle and joint positions, Tim started Invisalign. It took 14 months for Tim’s teeth to move into positions where the edges wouldn’t chip.

Getting the teeth in a better position to stop the chipping meant that more spaces would open up between Tim’s teeth. This was an anticipated side effect and was discussed with Tim during the Records Process. Tim agreed that porcelain veneers should be used to both close down his spacing and protect his enamel. 12 veneers were needed – 6 for Tim’s upper front teeth and 6 for his lower front teeth.

Dr. Elizabeth used emax veneers for Tim’s restorations. Emax is a type of dental porcelain made from lithium disilicate, a glass ceramic, and is known for strength, durability, and a natural appearance. Veneers made from emax are thin, translucent, and closely mimic the look of natural tooth enamel, which makes them a popular choice for cosmetic dental work, or in Tim’s case to also help with improved function and durability!

What does he think?

Tim mentioned that he was concerned with how long the process would take, but he felt informed along the way. He spends a majority of his time in Florida during the winter to get away from the Minnesota cold, but even having to work around that didn’t slow things down. He was able to take his Invisalign aligners with him to Florida and he updated Dr. Elizabeth with photos of his progress. Even through it did take awhile from start to finish, he is very happy with the results and likes that he can eat and speak like normal. When asked what he would say to anyone about his treatment, he said he would recommend it and tell them what the whole process was like for him. Congratulations on your commitment and great result Tim! We love working with you and we thank you for putting your trust in us! Call Eggert Family Dentistry today at 651-482-8412 to talk about your dental issues and to find out if veneers are the right way to improve your smile!

Braces vs. Invisalign: Which Orthodontic Option is Right for You?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

When it comes to straightening your teeth and achieving a healthier, more functional smile, today’s orthodontic options offer more choices than ever. Two of the most common treatments are traditional braces with wires and brackets and Invisalign clear aligners. Each method has its advantages and is suited to different types of orthodontic cases. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision about your treatment—and at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert are here to guide you every step of the way.

Traditional Brackets and Wires

Traditional braces have been used for decades and remain an excellent option for more complex cases. If you have significant bite issues, severe crowding, or complex tooth movements that need to occur, your orthodontist may recommend metal or ceramic braces. These systems are extremely effective and allow for precise control over tooth movement. However, they are more visible and can sometimes be more difficult to clean around, which requires extra attention to oral hygiene throughout your treatment.

Invisalign

Invisalign, on the other hand, offers a more discreet and flexible option. This system uses a series of clear aligners to gradually shift your teeth into place. Invisalign is best suited for mild to moderate crowding, spacing issues, or minor bite adjustments. Because the aligners are removable, they allow you to eat and clean your teeth with ease. However, their success depends on your commitment—you need to wear them at least 20-22 hours per day to get the best results.

How to Choose?

Orthodontists often choose between these treatments based on your specific case, your age, your lifestyle, and the complexity of tooth movement required. Traditional braces can treat a wider range of issues, while Invisalign offers a more convenient and esthetically pleasing alternative for those who qualify. At Eggert Family Dentistry, while Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth don’t take on every orthodontic case, they do provide Invisalign treatment for many patients and have the expertise to guide you into which path is right for you.

If your case requires more advanced intervention, the Eggert’s work closely with trusted orthodontic specialists in the area. Even if you’re referred out, they stay actively involved in your care—monitoring your progress and helping guide the orthodontist to ensure your final results are as favorable as possible. And once your orthodontic treatment is complete, Eggert Family Dentistry can help you finish your smile with any necessary restorative work such as bonding, whitening, or veneers.

Whether you’re just beginning to think about straightening your teeth or you’re looking for expert guidance on your current treatment, Eggert Family Dentistry is here to help you navigate your options. Call us today at 651.482.8412 to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert. We’ll work with you to create a personalized plan that supports your oral health, confidence, and long-term success!

My Lifetime of Dentistry for an Amazing Smile – W’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

W (patient name and face photos withheld at patient’s request) has been working with Dr. Elizabeth since she took the practice over from Dr. Jensen in 2005. Prior to that, W had been working with Dr. Jensen since the early 1990’s! In the 20 years Dr. Elizabeth has been working with W, he has undergone various dental treatments, including multiple implants, a bridge, and crowns. W has also undergone some periodontal therapy to help maintain his bone and gum tissues in their healthiest state. While working with Dr. Jensen, W did have anterior veneers placed. Unfortunately, W’s veneers were starting to decay and he was opening up space between his teeth due to heavy forces his bite was putting on his teeth. Dr. Elizabeth talked to W about replacing the veneers, but because of the heavy forces, she recommended the records process first.

What was recommended?

Back in 2011, W went through the records process with Dr. Elizabeth because his teeth were moving and because he started losing posterior teeth from root cracks. At that time, she recommended orthodontic treatment for W along with a plan to replace the veneers on his front teeth. At that time, W chose not to proceed with treatment. Fast forward to 2023 and W had decay that was causing the need to replace his veneers so W went through the records process again.

W has always had a “deep bite.” This means that his front and back teeth, especially for his lower arch are not at the same and even level (it is like there is a “step-down” from the anterior teeth to the posterior teeth). This deep bite causes excessive forces on his teeth, putting them at risk for breaking. Since 2011, W has lost more posterior teeth due to root cracks so again Dr. Elizabeth discussed the benefits of orthodontics to help even out W’s bite forces. However, we now have the option to do this for W with Invisalign. It was recommended that W undergo Invisalign with Dr. Elizabeth before replacing his upper and lower veneers.

What did he want?

W understood the benefits of moving his teeth to improve the forces. He wasn’t excited about the prospect of orthodontics, but agreed that he wanted his new veneers to last as long as possible and he understood that moving his teeth with Invisalign was a good way to help make that happen. He also noted he wanted to maintain his natural teeth for a lifetime and did not want any more missing teeth. He also was very sure that he did not want dentures, ever! After deep consideration and after putting his trust in Dr. Elizabeth, W agreed to move forward with Invisalign before replacing his veneers for his anterior teeth.

What was involved?

W’s Invisalign treatment required 30 aligners and was expected to take up to 15 months. However, W was so compliant with using his aligners as directed and keeping them in for 22 hours per day, that Dr. Elizabeth was able to recommend more frequent aligner changes and he was able to finish his Invisalign treatment in only seven months! Invisalign works wonders with motivated and compliant patients. The goals of Invisalign for W were to improve his deep bite, even out the spacing for his upper anterior teeth, and create symmetry for his gum tissue levels.

The photos show W’s smile after Invisalign. It is possible to see more of W’s lower anterior teeth now because his deep bite was addressed. Due to the wear on W’s teeth and their original positioning, there is still a “step” in his bite until the restorations are done.

After Invisalign was completed, W and Dr. Elizabeth went through the planning stages for his new veneers. She was able to plan for veneers for W’s lower anterior teeth, but the upper teeth would now be porcelain crowns to help fill in the spaces between W’s upper teeth. Twelve all porcelain restorations were planned for W.

W elected to sit through a full day with Dr. Elizabeth to prepare all twelve teeth for his new restorations. It was a tiring day, but he was a trooper! Two days later, Dr. Elizabeth had him back to finalize his temporaries and zero-in on his bite. Since W was fatigued and numb on the prep day, it was nice to be able to address the bite at the later time. At that time, W reported he was doing very well and was happy with how everything looked in the temporary phase.

Three weeks later, W’s restorations were ready and Dr. Elizabeth cemented them in and final scans were taken to fabricate W’s Invisalign retainers.

What does he think?

W was very open and honest about how he felt about the plan and process throughout the course of treatment. He admitted that he was very reluctant to do it all but glad that he did move forward. He especially was hesitant to do Invisalign treatment, but admitted, “It actually was not as bad as I thought it would be. Once I got used to the aligners it was ok. I was dreading the treatment time for Invisalign, but it went really well.”

We asked W what he would tell a friend or family member that was considering the same or similar treatment he said, “You need to trust your dentist and if you believe that it’s a good thing, then do it. You are not the professional! Have faith and trust your dentist.”

After W’s final bite and reevaluation appointment, he sent a very kind letter to Dr. Elizabeth. It really meant a lot to her to hear what W had to say. He noted “You had suggested this several years ago and I declined. What changed my mind was your professional opinion that this was necessary for my oral health. I have faith and trust in you as a professional and I realized not to follow your advice would be foolish on my part…As it turned out, the experience was not as dreadful as I expected it to be. Through this process, you and your team were wonderful. You were careful and made sure every step of the process was done exactly right, checking and rechecking as necessary. That made me feel very confident and ensured the success of the process. Thank you for the excellent work you did and please thank your team. They too should be proud of the excellent work they do for the patients of Eggert Family Dentistry.”

Thank you, W for trusting us with your smile! Also, thank you for your kind words. We treasure when patients are happy and it feels good to be recognized for the help we can provide! We look forward to working with you for many more years to come.

The Role of Dental Crowns in Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Believe it or not, dental crowns have been around since ancient times. Thought to have originated in Italy in the 700s BC, these first crowns were made of gold and communicated status among the aristocratic population. Fast forward two millennia to 1903, when Dr. Charles Land developed the first crown with hints of porcelain material as a way to repair a broken tooth.

Today, the role of crowns is two-fold. Crowns are both structural and aesthetic. Let’s take a closer look!

What Are Dental Crowns?

If you’ve heard people talk about crowns but you’re not entirely sure what they are, think of a crown like a hat or helmet for your tooth. This “helmet” fits snugly over your natural tooth, protecting it from splitting or breaking. Then it’s bonded into place. Before placing a crown, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert removes a small amount of enamel from your tooth to ensure a proper fit.

Crowns are available in porcelain, metal, or a combination of the two. With the steadily improving porcelains over the years, porcelain remains the most popular choice among today’s dentists. It is highly durable, looks natural, and can be matched closely to the color of your existing teeth. Porcelain is both functional and aesthetic.

How Are Dental Crowns Created?

Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert begins by examining your tooth and taking any necessary imagery to check its health and structure. If they determine that a crown is the best choice for your tooth, they will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and reshaping it to ready it for the crown. Then, they will take an impression or scan of your tooth either electronically or with putty.

In many cases, our amazing dentists can create your crown the same day with our CEREC method. If they need to order your crown from an outside dental lab, they will fit you with a temporary acrylic crown, and you will schedule an appointment for your permanent crown two weeks later. Any crown you receive at Eggert Family Dentistry will match the color, shape, and size of your natural tooth for a flawless appearance!

When Are Dental Crowns The Best Choice?

By nature, teeth are subjected to significant wear and tear. Over time, they can develop cracks, fractures and even start to decay. In these instances, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert generally recommend dental crowns to strengthen these weak teeth and extend the life of the natural teeth as long as possible. Restoring the integrity of a tooth or teeth is a crown’s primary function.

A Crown’s Many Jobs

Indeed, crowns are champs when it comes to protecting compromised teeth. But crowns have other important jobs as well!

Crowns can be placed on the teeth adjacent to a missing tooth to anchor a dental bridge securely.
Crowns can cover discolored teeth, creating a brighter smile.
Read Mary’s story!
Crowns should always be placed over a tooth after a root canal treatment to keep the tooth from cracking.
Crowns are placed on top of dental implants to restore function and appearance.

Extend Crown Life With Proper Maintenance

Crowns are durable, but they’re not indestructible. With proper care, crowns should last 5-15 years. In some cases, crowns must be prematurely replaced on account of poor dental hygiene or fractures to the crown itself. In most cases, however, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert replace crowns because acidic and sugary foods or dry mouth cause the underlying tooth to decay.

A crown is a lasting investment in your dental health. Use these tips to help extend its lifespan:

1. Maintain a consistent daily dental care routine.

When you brush and floss regularly, you remove harmful bacteria and sticky plaque from the surface of your teeth and between your crown and your gum line, decreasing the likelihood of tooth decay.

2. Wear a custom night guard if you grind your teeth.

Limit excessive bite force with a custom night guard. This is especially important if you’ve been diagnosed with bruxism. Learn more about the custom night guards we create for our Eggert Family Dentistry patients!

3. Limit your intake of sugary or acidic foods.

You might not think that sugary and acidic foods can affect a crown, but these substances can hang out around the gum line and cause the underlying natural tooth to deteriorate. They can also eat enamel on surrounding teeth, creating a visible contrast between the color of your natural teeth and your crown.

4. Steer clear of sticky or hard, crunchy foods.

Biting on hard candies, popcorn kernels, and other crunchy foods can weaken crowns or cause them to crack, just like your natural teeth can. Sticky foods like taffy and gooey candies can actually dislodge crowns while increasing your risk of tooth decay. Foods in these categories are best avoided.

If it’s been awhile since your last recare visit, schedule an appointment at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN. In addition to a thorough cleaning and careful inspection of your jaws, teeth, and gums, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert will closely inspect any existing dental work to make sure it’s structurally sound and doing its job and recommend dental crowns and other interventions when needed. Call us at 651.482.8412!