Category: Cosmetic Dentistry

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.

A Quick New Smile for a Lifetime! – Jim’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start and what did Jim want?

Jim has been a loyal patient of Dr. Elizabeth Eggert for over 15 years.  She has placed multiple posterior crowns for Jim over the years, but there came a time when Jim’s front teeth, which had previously been treated with PFM (porcelain fused to metal) crowns, were decaying and needed to be replaced.  Jim was interested in getting his crowns all done in one day and he wanted them to look natural.  We were able to address his front four teeth in one 3-hour appointment and his two upper canine (eye-teeth) at a subsequent 2-hour appointment.

What was involved?

We were able to complete CEREC crowns for Jim’s front teeth.  This means we were able to make the crowns right in our office!

How CEREC Works

CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic) is a method of creating dental restorations right at Eggert Family Dentistry in one appointment!  These restorations are typically used to repair damaged teeth due to decay or injury.

Specifically, restorations are designed and created using CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing).  This process means designs are made after scanning with a highly advanced scanning unit and then computer software helps Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth design your crown!  The design is sent to the milling unit and your crown is ready in minutes.

C – Chair-Side:  The CAD/CAM technology is in the office and can be used while you are the dental chair.
E – Economical:  The procedure allows our office to keep our costs as low as possible for patients.
R –Restorations:  The CEREC procedure restores your tooth to its natural beauty, function, and strength.
E – Esthetic:  CEREC restorations are metal-free and tooth-colored.
C – Ceramic:  The ceramics we are able to use in-office are similar in strength to enamel, your natural tooth structure.   

What does Jim think?

Jim loves his new smile and was so happy to be able to get all his crowns done without multiple visits and without the risks that comes with wearing temporary crowns (like them accidentally coming loose).  Jim’s story is just one of many others who have experienced magnificent results with Dr. Eggert.  Crowns can yield beautiful and predictable results for accomplishing an improved smile.  At Eggert Family Dentistry, we love providing Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles – thanks Jim for trusting us to help you continue to smile big and confidently!

Jim After

Jim After

 

Are There Any Restrictions After I Get a Crown?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

In the immediate hours after getting a dental crown, you may wonder, “What did Dr. Eggert say again?  Are there supposed to be any restrictions for me today?”  Well, wonder no more.  Here we will share several post-operative care measures that can contribute to a smoother recovery and enhance the longevity of your crown as well as improve your healing.

You maybe didn’t know, but our website has helpful post-operative instructions for most of the dental procedures done in our office including Crowns.

After the Preparation Appointment

After the preparation appointment, if you did not have a CEREC crown done, you are wearing a temporary crown or bridge.  This is held on with temporary cement.  Be sure to avoid sticky foods and gum so as to not pull the temporary off.  Also avoid hard or crunchy foods.  It is best to chew on the opposite side as much as possible.

Expect your gum tissues to be sore for a few days.  It helps to rinse with warm salt water (8 oz warm water and 1 teaspoon salt) 2-3 times daily for 3-5 days.  It also helps to take some over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or Tylenol for both gum soreness, tooth soreness, and jaw soreness.  Take that as directed in our office, for most patients that are able to take ibuprofen, we will recommend 600 mg of ibuprofen every 6 hours for the first 1-5 days.

It is important to brush and floss the temporary.  This will help the gum tissues heal faster.  Brush with small, circular, massaging strokes along the gumline.  While flossing, pull the floss out to the side if you experience a lot of resistance through the contact point of the tooth.  Occasionally temporary crowns will be splinted together, or in the case of a temporary bridge, use the floss threader as directed in our office.

Temporary crowns rarely come loose, but if yours happens to do so:

  • Don’t panic and try to save the temporary (i.e. don’t swallow it)
  • Attempt to re-fit the temporary on your tooth using toothpaste to hold it in place
  • Call our office right away to find a time for us to recement your temporary for you

What Are Some Symptoms I Should be Concerned About?

Occasionally teeth undergoing the preparation procedure will experience inflammation in the nerve.  This can happen with any tooth, but more commonly occurs in a tooth that has had a large filling or deep decay, cracking, fracture, or pain before the preparation procedure.  The inflammation in the nerve tissue can become irreversible, necessitating additional procedures for the tooth.  If you have any of the following signs or symptoms, call our office right away:

  • Prolonged pain after cold, hot, or chewing that gets worse over time
  • A dull ache that won’t go away
  • The need to take over-the-counter pain medicine for 5 days or more “around the clock”
  • Pain that wakes you up at night
  • Pain that gets worse over time instead of better
  • Swelling getting worse in the gums or tissues surrounding the tooth

After the Cementation Appointment

After the cementation appointment, the gum tissues and tooth may be sensitive and sore for a couple of days.  Use warm salt water rinses and over-the-counter pain medicine during this time if needed.  Brush and floss the new crown or bridge as you would any tooth.  If you experience any of the signs or symptoms listed above describing inflammation in the nerve, please call our office right away.  If you had a CEREC crown done, your preparation and cementation occurred all in one day.  The same instructions apply although there is no need to avoid sticky or crunchy foods.

Generally, you may want to avoid eating or drinking for a couple of hours after the procedure so you don’t accidentally bite your cheeks, lips, or tongue due to the local anesthetic used for your procedure.  It is also helpful to stick with easy to chew foods to minimize the stress for your tooth.

Once you have your final crown, practicing good oral hygiene remains essential.  It still is possible to get decay and gum disease even if your tooth has a crown.

After the placement of a dental crown, certain restrictions and considerations should be observed to ensure the optimal success and longevity of the restoration. While dental crowns are designed to restore the function and esthetics of a damaged tooth, it’s important to be mindful of so your crown can last for many years!

Eggert Family Dentistry, Your Dental Crown Experts

We’re here for you if you still have questions about what to do after your dental crown procedure.  Call our office today at 651-482-8412!  We look forward to working with you again soon!

Preparing for Crown Success: A Guide to Your Dental Procedure at Eggert Family Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Are you scheduled for a dental crown procedure at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN? Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert are renowned for their commitment to delivering top-notch dental care and preparing adequately for your crown procedure can contribute significantly to your success and your overall comfort during recovery.

Understanding the Crown Procedure

Before delving into the preparation, it’s beneficial to have a brief understanding of the dental crown procedure.  Dental crowns, also known as caps, are custom-designed to fit over a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its strength, functionality, and appearance.  At Eggert Family Dentistry, we often complete crowns in one visit using our CEREC procedure.

Preparing for Your Crown Procedure

  1. Consultation and Treatment Planning:  Before the actual procedure, Dr. Jeff or Dr. Elizabeth will have completed an exam to diagnose the condition of your tooth and will have talked with you about the reasons why a crown is recommended for you.
  2. Ask Questions:  Feel free to ask any questions or express concerns during your exam or before scheduling for your procedure.  Any one of our magnificent team members will be able to help you understand your condition.  Understanding the procedure, potential discomfort, and aftercare instructions will help alleviate anxiety and ensure you are well-informed.
  3. Oral Hygiene Routine:  Maintain a diligent oral hygiene routine leading up to the procedure.

Day of the Procedure

  1. Eat Before Your Appointment:  Have a nutritious meal before your appointment as you will likely want to avoid eating until the local anesthetic needed for the appointment wears off.
  2. Comfortable Clothing:  Consider wearing loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment, as this can enhance your overall comfort during the procedure.
  3. Consider an Anti-inflammatory:  We will definitely recommend an anti-inflammatory if it is appropriate for you after your dental crown procedure, but if you take your first dose about one hour prior to your appointment time, the medicine has time to kick in and your muscles and tooth can be that much happier! 

What’s Next?

Preparing for a dental crown procedure at Eggert Family Dentistry involves a combination of proactive steps and open communication with your experienced dental team.  By taking these measures, you set the stage for a successful procedure and a speedy, comfortable recovery, ensuring your smile remains healthy and vibrant for years to come.  Call us at 651-482-8412 to schedule your dental crown procedure today!

Do I Need a Dental Crown? [Answered]

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

A beautiful smile is a key indicator of youth and good health. Over time, however, our teeth begin to weaken due to physical stressors, acidic foods, and other factors. This makes our teeth more susceptible to problems such as decay, cracks, and discoloration.

That’s where dental crowns come in. This common dental restoration can solve a number of problems and bring your smile back to its former glory.

Are you wondering whether or not a dental crown can help restore your smile? Then you’ve come to the right place! Let’s take a deeper look at dental crowns to help you determine when this restorative treatment is right for you.

What are Crowns?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that restores a decayed, broken, weak or worn-down tooth. Crowns are about 1.5 mm thick and cover the entire tooth like a little hat. This cap replaces the structure, support, and look of the original tooth.

These days, crowns are typically made from the strongest all-porcelain materials. However, in the past crowns have also been made from porcelain fused to metal, or even full gold. For the most natural look and feel, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert recommend all-porcelain crowns as the strength of these materials can’t be beat and they can best match the shade of your natural teeth.

When Do You Need a Crown?

Crowns can serve several different purposes. Dental crowns can be used to:

  • Strengthen a weak tooth: If your tooth is experiencing extensive decay or has a large filling, a crown can fortify your tooth to prevent it from breaking.
  • Protect and support a cracked tooth: A cracked tooth can be quite painful, especially when chewing. If the crack is too deep, a crown can be used to prevent the crack from deepening.
  • Restore a worn-down or broken tooth: Whether your worn-down tooth is bothering you cosmetically or functionally, a crown can restore your tooth and allow you to feel and look like yourself again.
  • Hold a dental bridge in place: Crowns can serve as supporting structures for dental bridges. They are placed on the natural teeth on either side of a gap, providing support for the artificial tooth or teeth that bridge the gap.
  • Cover a severely stained or discolored tooth: If your tooth is too stained for traditional whitening, you may consider getting a crown that’s made to match the color of your smile.
  • Protect a root canal-treated tooth: After a root canal procedure, a crown is often placed over the tooth to provide strength and protection. Crowns also seal the treated tooth preventing re-infection.
  • Cover a dental implant: When dental implants are used to replace a tooth, a crown is attached to the implant in order to make sure the solution appears natural.

When you come in for your appointment, Dr. Jeff Eggert or Elizebeth Eggert will evaluate your teeth and be able to determine if any of your teeth are experiencing any of the above problems and if a dental crown is the appropriate solution for you.

Benefits of a Crown

When compared to other restorative treatments, dental crowns have many benefits, including:

  1. Natural look: Porcelain crowns are very discreet, blending in and appearing just like one of your natural teeth.
  2. Protective solution: Because the entire tooth is covered, the tooth is less likely to fully fracture or split than with other restorations like veneers or fillings.
  3. Comfortable: Crowns feel very much like your own teeth, so it won’t take long to get used to.
  4. Quick process: Crowns can be fitted in just 1-2 visits.

Process of Getting a Crown

As we said above, the process of installing a crown is relatively quick. It typically takes 1-2 visits to Eggert Family Dentistry, and then you’ll be enjoying your new smile for years to come.

One Visit: When you come in for your CEREC crown, you will first be given local anesthetic so that you do not experience any discomfort. Then your tooth will be reshaped so that the crown can be placed over it. Once the tooth has been reshaped, we can often take a CEREC scan of your tooth and make your crown right in our office, allowing us to place it that same day. That means you can leave with your final crown after just one visit!

Two Visits: Occasionally, we are not able to take a CEREC scan, and instead we will have your crown made by a dental lab. In that case, the process will require two visits. On your first visit, a mold will be taken of your affected tooth and your surrounding teeth. We will still reshape your tooth and fit you with a temporary crown to protect it until your porcelain crown is ready. If your crown is being made at the dental lab, it takes about 2 weeks to be returned.

After your final crown has been made, you’ll come in for your second appointment to have it placed. At this appointment, the crown will be fixed to your tooth using cement to ensure it remains in place, and voila, you can enjoy your new smile! Crowns are very durable, and with proper hygiene, your new crown can last 10-15 years or longer!

Think You Need a Dental Crown? Call Eggert Family Dentistry Today

If you’re still wondering whether or not you need a dental crown, call Eggert Family Dentistry today at 651-482-8412 or simply book a recare appointment online. We would be happy to answer any questions you still have about how dental crowns can help restore the appearance and function of your natural teeth. We look forward to helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile!

Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces: Which is Right for You?

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

No one’s smile is perfect, and you should love your smile no matter what! But sometimes having crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth can negatively impact your self esteem. Additionally, this kind of malocclusion can make it harder to floss, chew, and even speak.

If you or someone in your family wants to straighten their teeth, whether for medical or cosmetic reasons, there are mainly two orthodontic treatments they can choose from: the traditional solution of braces, or the newer method of invisible aligners, commonly called Invisalign.

But which is best? At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, both Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert have years of experience helping patients obtain the smiles they’ve always dreamed about. Dr. Elizabeth is well-trained in the Invisalign system and is even able to help patients at Eggert Family Dentistry undergo this type of orthodontic tooth movement right in our own office! Still, it makes sense to learn about the pros and cons of both types of treatment to determine which one is right for you.

Braces

What are Braces?

Traditional braces are orthodontic appliances made with metal brackets. These brackets are attached to the teeth using a non-toxic dental cement and held together by a metal wire and rubber bands that wrap around the brackets.

For hundreds of years metal braces have been used to safely and effectively straighten teeth into their correct positions, and modern day braces are extremely comfortable, reliable, safe, and effective!

Nowadays, there are multiple kinds of braces to choose from. Patients can now opt for ceramic brackets, which are less noticeable than metal, or lingual braces, which are bonded to the backs of your teeth (on the tongue side).

How Do Braces Work?

Braces use mild, constant pressure to shift your teeth into their proper positions over time. The treatment can last anywhere from 12 months to three years, depending on the severity of your misalignment. Though, the average treatment time for adults is two years.

We rely on one of our amazing local orthodontists to complete traditional braces for our patients.  Typically, you would have an adjustment appointment  every four to six weeks.

Pros of Braces:

  • They’re the most powerful solution:  It doesn’t matter how badly your teeth are crowded, braces will effectively anchor onto the teeth and pull them into the desired position. They are able to generate more force than Invisalign, making them an effective treatment for even the most severe cases of misalignment.
  • Multiple types of braces to choose from:  As we mentioned earlier, you can choose from either the traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, or lingual braces.
  • Faster treatment time:  When it comes to closing gaps and straightening teeth, braces tend to be the faster solution. This is because the braces put more pressure on the teeth causing them to move more quickly.
  • They stay on your teeth: This can be seen as a pro or a con, but for those who are prone to losing items or maybe not the most compliant, it’s definitely a pro: braces stay attached to your teeth for the duration of your treatment, so there’s no chance of them being lost or the treatment not progressing!

Cons of Braces:

  • Aesthetics: Traditional braces are more noticeable when you smile or speak. While some people don’t mind the look of braces, many people wish they weren’t so visible.
  • Cleaning your teeth can be difficult: Patients need to take great care to make sure they’re brushing and flossing well while they’re wearing braces. With the metal wires, flossing can be particularly challenging.
  • Changing your diet: Hard and sticky foods have the potential to break your metal brackets. If this happens, your braces treatment will be ineffective until the bracket has been fixed. So, while you’re wearing braces, you’ll want to avoid foods like hard candy, caramel apples, corn on the cob, etc.

Invisalign

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign clear aligners are a set of plastic trays (aligners) that slowly shift your teeth into the desired position. These clear aligners function much like traditional braces, but they’re much more discreet.

How Does Invisalign Work?

As we’ve said, Invisalign gently and subtly repositions your teeth over time, just like braces do. The entire treatment involves many sets of aligners that are changed out every couple of weeks. Each new set of aligners is designed to move your teeth 0.25 mm until your teeth are completely straight.

Pros of Invisalign:

  • Cleaning your teeth is easy: In contrast to traditional braces that are permanently attached to your teeth, Invisalign aligners are easily removed for brushing and flossing!
  • No need to change your diet:  Because they can be removed, there is no need to alter your diet to accommodate your aligners. But remember, for the best results, Invisalign aligners need to be worn for 22 hours per day, so don’t forget to put them back on when you’re finished eating!

Cons of Invisalign:

  • Can be lost:  Because Invisalign aligners are removable, that means they can be easily lost if you’re not careful. If you lose your aligners, you’ll need to contact Eggert Family Dentistry to get replacements right away.
  • Teeth won’t move:  If you aren’t compliant with wearing your aligners, your teeth won’t move. This can be very frustrating for both the patient and the dentist! If you aren’t willing to commit to 22 hours of wear each day, Invisalign isn’t the right treatment for you.
  • May not be suitable for severe cases:  If the patient is experiencing severe malocclusion, crowding, or jaw issues, Invisalign may not be the most appropriate form of treatment.

Interested in hearing more about Invisalign? At Eggert Family Dentistry we can create a customized Invisalign treatment plan for you and your family. We’d be honored to help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile! Call us today at (651)482-8412!

Elevating the Patient Experience: Eggert Family Dentistry’s Technological Marvels in North Oaks, MN

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

In the heart of North Oaks, MN, Eggert Family Dentistry stands as a beacon of exceptional dental care, where cutting-edge technology intertwines seamlessly with compassionate patient service.  Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, a husband and wife team, have integrated technology into their practice to revolutionize the patient experience.

Meet the Visionaries Behind the Innovation

At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, has been working with our community for nearly 20 years and Dr. Jeff Eggert has been here now for over 10 years.  Together, they form an unbeatable pair, especially when surrounded by their amazing team!  Their vision extends beyond traditional dental care, striving to create an environment that calms patients and utilizes modern tech tools to enhance comfort, accuracy, and communication.

A Visual and Tech-Forward Approach to Care

With unwavering commitment to providing the best possible experience for their patients, Eggert Family Dentistry has embraced technological advancements that make dental visits more efficient, precise, and pleasant.  State-of-the-art diagnostic tools, such as digital x-rays that reduce radiation exposure and enhance diagnostic accuracy, have been a cornerstone of their practice for years!

In addition, the utilization of intraoral cameras grants patients a virtual tour of their oral health, aiding in understanding diagnoses and treatment options.  You will love to learn about your oral health this way!

Revolutionizing Communication

The Eggert Family Dentistry team knows that communication is key to a successful patient-practitioner relationship.  By leveraging technology, they have streamlined communication channels, making it easier for patients to schedule appointments, access information, and receive timely reminders.

The Future Beckons

As technology continues to evolve, so does Eggert Family Dentistry’s commitment to pushing boundaries in patient care.  Our unwavering dedication to integrating technology harmoniously into our practice sets an inspiring example of a dental practice striving to enhance their patients’ experiences!

Call or Text Us!

We look forward to sharing our technology with you and!  Call or text us for an appointment soon!  651-482-8412.

The Importance of Dental Technology and What You Can Expect at Eggert Family Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Technology is constantly evolving.

We can see this in every area of life: from the cars we drive to the ways we communicate; things have changed quickly in our lifetimes. Even family movie night looks much different now than it did just a few decades ago!

Technology in the dental field has significantly evolved as well. We have vastly more powerful tools at our disposal than we once did, which has translated to much more efficient and effective dental care.

In this blog, we’ll explore why technology is important to your dental health and introduce some of the equipment you can expect to see used in the Eggert Family Dentistry office.

Why Is Dental Technology Important?

Dentists and patients alike benefit from advances in dental technology. Updates to procedures, treatments, and instruments make it easier for dentists to identify and address problems and improve outcomes for patients.

Modern technology has improved oral health in many ways. For example, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert can identify and treat dental problems more effectively and conveniently than ever before. And patients benefit from a wider range of available treatment options as well as more efficient, less painful procedures.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we are proud to provide improved treatment options using a number of technological advances in our clinic.

The Technology We Use at Eggert Family Dentistry

We routinely use advanced technologies in our offices including the iTero scanner, the Primescan with CEREC, digital x-rays, intraoral cameras, and electric handpieces. Here is a little more about these advancements and how they help us provide you with the best in oral care.

iTero Scanner

The iTero Element 5D Plus Lite is an intraoral scanner that gives us a fast, high-definition color 3D image of a patient’s mouth.

An intraoral scanner consists of a handheld camera wand, a computer, and software. Here’s how it works:

  1. We use the wand to scan your mouth, gently moving it over the surface of the teeth and gums.
  2. The iTero captures the size and shape of each tooth and displays a real-time 3D image on a touch screen.
  3. This image can be magnified and manipulated to enhance details in the areas we want to examine more closely.
  4. If appliances are needed, we can send the necessary scan information directly to the lab.
  5. iTero is perfect for scanning for Invisalign cases.  In fact, this is why we invested in the iTero scanning unit, because we started doing so many Invisalign cases, it was much more convenient for everyone to use the scanner.

Primescan and CEREC

We have been using the Primescan with CEREC in our office for a number of years. This equipment allows us to create restorations like full crowns, inlays, onlays, and veneers right in our office…in a matter of minutes.

Traditionally, when you need a crown, it has always involved two appointments. The first is to prepare the tooth for the crown, take an impression of the tooth to have the crown made, and attach a temporary crown. Then, at the second appointment, the temporary crown is removed and the customized crown is permanently affixed.

With Primescan and CEREC, we are able to condense all of this down into one visit.

First, we’re able to take a digital impression of the tooth (rather than using the traditional putty method). Then, we can create your customized restoration while you wait and affix it right away. There’s no need for a temporary crown or to come back for a second appointment. We are proud to say that we are able to fabricate over 85% of our crowns at Eggert Family Dentistry using this one-visit method.

Digital X-Rays

Digital x-rays allow us to instantly take x-rays of your teeth to gather the information we need to quickly determine treatment and procedure options.

With the digital x-ray, we take an image of your teeth and view it in an imaging program. That program contains a number of tools that allow us to take a close look at your teeth and surrounding structures with incredible accuracy.

What’s more, the digital x-ray also uses nearly 80% less radiation than a standard x-ray, making it much safer for you.

Intraoral Camera

An intraoral camera is a diagnostic tool that enables us to view different angles in the mouth that are difficult to see with a hand mirror. We use an intraoral camera to take photos of your teeth and gums and to show you any problem areas in your mouth. It is a great education tool!

The camera allows us to view the entire mouth on a monitor so we can get a closer look at any potential issues or problems that may arise and treat things before they become more serious. In addition, you are able to see for yourself what we are seeing in your mouth.

Electric Handpieces

There are two types of handpieces commonly used in dentistry: air-driven handpieces and electric ones.

Electric handpieces are much stronger than air-driven ones because a motor spins the bur rather than air. This allows us to remove decay more quickly, reducing the time you need to be in the dental chair.

One example of where electric handpieces provide a great deal of benefit is in performing root canals. In Rotary Endodontics, we use a specialized electrical handpiece to perform a root canal, making the process faster and more effective and allowing us to perform the procedure with greater ease.

Enjoy a Better Dental Experience Thanks to Technology and Eggert Family Dentistry

At Eggert Family Dentistry, our patients enjoy efficient, successful, and more comfortable procedures thanks to the latest in dental technology, along with the compassionate care of Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert.

No matter your dental needs, Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert will use their expertise to evaluate your oral health and determine the best treatment options for you. Contact our office in North Oaks, MN at 651-482-8412 to schedule an appointment today.