Invisalign® Archives - Eggert Family Dentistry Blog

Another New Beginning: An Update After Dental Trauma to an Even MORE Confident Smile – Sarah’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Sarah began her journey with Eggert Family Dentistry more than 10 years ago as a high school senior, searching for a solution for a front tooth that had been injured years earlier. The trauma she experienced in her early teens resulted in the need for root canal treatment, but despite those efforts, the tooth had a poor long-term prognosis.

The teenage years are filled with milestones, friendships, and countless reasons to smile. But, if you’re self-conscious about your smile, those moments can feel much more challenging. Because of the trauma, Sarah’s long-term prognosis for her front teeth was unpredictable. Plus, there was still a chance that Sarah could grow or experience bony facial changes. Therefore, as you can see from our first blog with Sarah from 2016, some composite bonding was done to give a cosmetic improvement, but mostly to help “buy some time.”

What did she want?

Over the years, Sarah and Dr. Elizabeth worked together through several challenges to preserve her natural front tooth for as long as possible. Whenever it is healthy and predictable to do so, preserving a natural tooth is often the best option. Keeping the natural tooth helps maintain the surrounding bone, supports the natural bite, and preserves facial structure and alignment. While modern dentistry offers excellent replacement options such as dental implants and bridges, nothing can completely replace the unique qualities of a natural tooth. Over the years, Sarah started in her career and wanted to invest in herself. She knew her bite was not ideal to support an implant so in planning for the need to eventually replace her traumatized tooth, she started looking into orthodontics with Dr. DeVoe in 2020.

What was involved?

Sarah did many treatments with Dr. DeVoe, including orthognathic surgery with the oral surgery team, to improve her tooth and jaw positions. This took awhile and unfortunately, Sarah noticed her traumatized front tooth starting to darken again, while Dr. Elizabeth noticed that the tooth wasn’t looking healthy on the x-rays. Sarah’s tooth was experiencing root resorption – a condition where the body begins to break down the root structure of the tooth. So, although every effort was made to save Sarah’s tooth, Sarah knew that she wanted something different after her orthodontic treatment. She also was planning to get married and wanted a brighter, more pleasant smile for that.

After a thorough evaluation and careful collaboration between Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. DeVoe, the plan was to keep the resorbing tooth until orthodontics was complete and then move Sarah to a dental implant to replace the tooth. As Sarah was finishing her orthodontic treatment, she had the surgery done to place a dental implant with a temporary crown to be used during the healing phase. Sarah also underwent some gingival recontouring surgery to help gain more symmetry between her front two teeth.

Once Sarah’s dental implant had healed and her orthodontic treatment was complete, she returned to Dr. Elizabeth to begin the final phase of her smile transformation. With a healthy, stable foundation in place, the focus shifted to creating a smile that was not only beautiful, but also functional, balanced, and natural-looking.

Sarah’s customized treatment plan began with Opalescence GO® whitening to brighten her natural teeth and establish the ideal shade for her final restorations. Once whitening was complete, Dr. Elizabeth carefully designed three porcelain veneers for Sarah’s upper front teeth, as well as the porcelain implant restoration for her implant. Each veneer was meticulously planned to complement her facial features, match the implant restoration seamlessly, and create a harmonious smile that looked as though it had always been hers.

After years of preserving her natural tooth, coordinating orthodontic treatment, and thoughtfully planning every step of care, Sarah’s journey culminated in a healthy, confident smile designed to last for years to come.

What does she think?

We asked Sarah a few questions about how the process went for her. She told us “I knew it would be a long process, but I also knew it was something I wanted to do because of the long-term benefits. I felt it would be worth the investment in my smile and my future.” Sarah let us know that the process was much easier than she expected it would be. In fact, she said “The oral surgery was a breeze and the final restorations were surprisingly simple! It only took a few appointments, which was really nice, and the team was wonderful about helping me schedule everything before my wedding!”

Sarah told us that if she were talking to someone considering similar treatment, she’d tell them “I would absolutely recommend it. Do it sooner rather than later because the entire process can take some time – but it’s completely worth it. 100% worth it!”

Sarah’s story is a wonderful reminder that transforming a smile is often a journey rather than a single procedure. Through years of careful planning, collaboration between specialists, and a commitment to preserving her oral health whenever possible, Sarah achieved a smile that is healthy, functional, and beautifully natural.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, our goal is always Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles. We are grateful that Sarah trusted us through every stage of her journey and are honored to have helped restore not only her smile, but also the confidence that comes with it. She made a beautiful bride!

“I am so happy with the results. I would never look back. I’m so glad I followed all of Dr. Elizabeth’s recommendations. I feel more confident, and honestly, I feel like a new person.” – Sarah

A Better Bite, A Brighter Smile: Invisalign and Bonding – Sam’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Members of Sam’s family have been part of Eggert Family Dentistry for over 20 years and Sam joined in after aging out of her pediatric dental clinic. Although she already completed treatment with traditional bracket braces, she continued to experience crowding and bite issues into her early 20’s. She also struggled with frequent headaches and ongoing problems with her retainers, which led her to begin exploring a new solution for a healthier bite and a more confident smile. She asked Dr. Elizabeth Eggert what her options were and it seemed that Invisalign (orthodontics done with clear aligners) and composite bonding could help her achieve the smile she desired as well as address her pain issues.

What did Sam want?

Sam wasn’t ready to invest in the process right away, but after discussing possible options at her recare appointments, she was ready to move forward and explore Invisalign treatment. Sam felt strongly about continuing her care with Dr. Elizabeth and trusted her throughout the process. It was also convenient to complete the Invisalign with Dr. Elizabeth as Sam also wanted bonding for her front teeth to help with symmetry and color. Confident in both her dentist and the Invisalign system, Sam chose to move forward with treatment at Eggert Family Dentistry.

What was recommended?

Sam first went through the Invisalign records process. This included photos, a 3D digital scan, and x-rays of the tooth roots and jaw bones. These records were submitted to Align Technology, Invisalign’s parent company, and a 3D ClinCheck treatment plan was created.

ClinCheck is a virtual 3D treatment planning system that maps out the step-by-step movement of the teeth throughout treatment. This technology allows Dr. Elizabeth to carefully review and refine your smile’s projected final outcome using Align Technology’s software before the custom clear aligners are manufactured.

What was involved?

Sam completed her Invisalign treatment in approximately 16 months. The goals of Invisalign for Sam were to make her gum tissue alignment more symmetric as well as alleviate her crowding, improve her bite, and decrease the muscle tension that was causing her headaches. Once her teeth were in a better position, Dr. Elizabeth planned for restorations for Sam for only 2 teeth with composite bonding. Before starting the final planning stage, Dr. Elizabeth performed an equilibration for Sam to perfect her biting contacts. Dr. Elizabeth then recommended composite veneers for her right side upper incisors (one lateral incisor and one central incisor). Composite veneers use plastic filling material that bonds to the natural tooth enamel to help improve any chipping, gaps, or discoloration. Composite bonding can be a nice alternative to porcelain veneers because it can be completed in a single appointment. The initial investment is less than porcelain veneers as well, although it generally won’t last or hold up as long.

What does Sam think?

At Eggert Family Dentistry, it’s important to us to understand how our patients feel before and after treatment. Here’s what Sam shared about her experience:

Before treatment:

“I thought it would be very scary, and I wasn’t sure I was ready to do it. Moving my teeth felt intimidating, especially not knowing how everything would turn out – whether it would be better or worse. I also wasn’t sure if it would be worth the investment.”

During the process:

“It was completely worth the investment. The process went very smoothly. I really appreciated how much attention Dr. Elizabeth Eggert gave to every detail. I’d rather have it take a little more time now than have to go through it all again later.”

After treatment:

“I used to get headaches from my bite and now they’re gone, which is a huge relief! I feel less stressed and much more confident in my smile. Talking, biting, and smiling all feel better – it’s all much more functional now.”

Her advice to others:

“It’s really worth it – especially working with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert at Eggert Family Dentistry – because the team is so thorough and thoughtful.It’s worth the time and commitment for a lifetime of feeling better about your smile, chewing, and speaking.I’m so glad I did this!”

Congratulations, Sam! You look fabulous and we truly enjoyed working with you to help bring you the smile – and relief – you deserve.

Thank you for trusting us with your care. It means so much to know you’re happy with your results and we look forward to caring for your smile for many years to come.

If you’re considering Invisalign treatment or want to learn more about composite bonding, we’d love to connect with you. We are committed to our goal of “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles.”

10 Tips for an Easier Alignment Experience & Making the Most of Your Invisalign Investment

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Your Confidence Is the Real Investment

At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert often remind patients that while Invisalign is designed to fit seamlessly into daily life, it still relies on commitment to achieve the best results. Choosing Invisalign goes beyond simply straightening your teeth; it represents an investment in your confidence, your comfort, and your long-term oral health.

Small, intentional habits make a big difference in how smoothly your Invisalign treatment progresses from start to finish. When you stay on track with your care routine, you not only protect your Invisalign investment, but you also take the first step towards a more confident future — and, just as importantly, you also help ensure your overall treatment plan stays on schedule.

🦷If you’re still deciding whether Invisalign is the right option for you, comparing it to traditional braces can be a helpful first step: Braces vs. Invisalign: Which Orthodontic Option is Right for You?

So if you’re ready to make the most of your Invisalign investment, these practical tips will help guide the way.

1. Wear Your Aligners Consistently (22 Hours a Day)

Consistency is the single most important factor in Invisalign success. Your aligners are designed to apply gentle, continuous pressure to guide your teeth into alignment, and that process only works when they’re worn as directed.

For most patients, this means keeping aligners in for about 22 hours each day. They should only be removed when eating, drinking anything other than water, and cleaning your teeth. Even short periods without your trays can slow progress and significantly delay results.

🦷 Speaking of results, check out Ashley’s story, which highlights her successful Invisalign journey. She’s a great example of what’s possible when patients stay consistent with wearing their aligners for 22 hours a day. By closely following the guidance of Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert, Ashley completed her treatment right on schedule and didn’t require any additional refinements.

2. Keep a Routine

Building a consistent routine makes Invisalign feel effortless over time. Pairing aligner habits with daily activities, such as brushing after meals or reinserting trays immediately afterward, helps reinforce consistency.

Some patients find it helpful to set reminders on their phones, especially during the early weeks of treatment. These small prompts can prevent accidental lapses in wear time and keep your progress on track.

When your routine becomes second nature, your Invisalign experience becomes smoother and more predictable.

3. Always Remove Aligners When Eating

It may be tempting to leave your aligners in for a quick snack, but doing so can cause unnecessary problems. Eating with aligners can lead to cracks, warping, or staining, all of which can interfere with proper tooth movement — thus jeopardizing your Invisalign investment.

Food particles can also become trapped between the aligners and your teeth, creating an environment where bacteria thrive. This increases the risk of cavities and gum irritation.

Taking a moment to remove your Invisalign before meals protects both your trays and your oral health.

4. Skip Gum and Sticky Habits

Chewing gum and sticky foods can create complications during Invisalign treatment. Gum easily adheres to aligners and can be difficult to remove completely, leaving behind residue that affects cleanliness and comfort.

Sticky substances can also put pressure on the trays in unintended ways, potentially damaging them or altering their fit. Maintaining a simple, aligner-friendly routine helps keep everything functioning as intended.

🦷 That doesn’t mean chewing gum is all bad! In fact, it can offer some benefits for your overall oral health. Learn more in Dr. Elizabeth Eggert’s blog: Chew on This: Is Chewing Gum Bad for Your Teeth?

During Invisalign treatment, though, it’s best to hold off on that crisp, minty stick of gum until your aligners are no longer part of your daily routine.

5. Be Mindful of What You Drink

When it comes to protecting your Invisalign investment, water is the only safe beverage. Drinks like coffee, tea, soda, and wine can stain your trays and your teeth, affecting both aesthetics and hygiene.

Sugary and acidic beverages also increase the risk of tooth decay, especially when trapped between your teeth and aligners. If you do enjoy these drinks, remove your trays, rinse your mouth before reinserting them, and brush when possible.

Being mindful of your choices helps preserve the quality of your aligners and the health of your smile.

6. Clean Your Aligners Daily … the Right Way

Keeping your aligners clean is essential for both hygiene and appearance. Each time you remove them, give them a quick rinse to prevent saliva and bacteria from drying on the surface.

For deeper cleaning:

Gently brush aligners with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water
Avoid rigorous brushing, as it can scratch the plastic and cause cloudiness
Use Invisalign-approved cleaning crystals or solutions as needed
Soak aligners using denture cleaner to keep them clear, fresh, and sanitized

A clean Invisalign aligner not only looks better, but also supports a healthier smile throughout your treatment.

7. When Not in Use, Store Aligners Safely

Because Invisalign is designed to be nearly invisible, it can also be (not-so-surprisingly) easy to misplace if you’re not careful. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert often see patients who innocently assumed wrapping their Invisalign in a napkin or setting it down on a table was harmless in the moment, but it often leads to accidental disposal or damage.

Using your designated aligner case every time you remove your trays keeps them protected and easy to find. This simple habit can save you from unnecessary stress and the inconvenience of replacing lost aligners.

Taking care of your Invisalign aligners ultimately supports the bigger picture: protecting your progress, your confidence, and your long-term oral health.

8. Stay on Schedule With Tray Changes

Each set of aligners is carefully designed to move your teeth in small, precise increments. Following the schedule provided by Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert ensures that each stage builds correctly on the last.

Switching aligners too early can disrupt this progression, while delaying changes may slow your overall results. Sticking to the recommended timeline helps maintain steady, controlled movement throughout your treatment.

🦷 To better understand how Invisalign actually moves your teeth (which determines how your treatment schedule is decided), check out Dr. Elizabeth Eggert’s blog: Invisalign: How Effective Is It at Moving Teeth?

If you ever have questions about your schedule, Eggert Family Dentistry is always there to guide you.

9. Keep Up With Your Recare Visits

Regular visits to Eggert Family Dentistry play an important role in your Invisalign journey. These appointments allow Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert to monitor your progress, ensure your aligners are working as intended, and make any necessary adjustments.

Recare visits also help maintain your overall oral health. Professional cleanings and exams reduce the risk of cavities or gum issues that could interfere with your Invisalign investment.

Consistent check-ins provide reassurance that everything is moving in the right direction.

10. Trust the Process and Be Patient

Invisalign works gradually, guiding your teeth into alignment over time. It’s normal to experience mild discomfort when switching to a new set of aligners, as this signals that they are doing their job.

Progress may feel subtle at first, but consistent wear leads to noticeable changes. Staying patient and committed allows each stage of treatment to unfold as planned.

🦷 And in some cases, that journey may include more than just aligners. Cathy’s story is a great example of how exploring alternative treatments (like adult orthodontics and porcelain veneers) can lead to a result that truly fits your goals.

Every step brings you closer to the confident, healthy smile you’re working toward.

Your Effort = Your Results

Invisalign works best when you do your part. The habits you build each day play a direct role in how effective your treatment will be and how smoothly everything progresses from start to finish.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert often see that patients who stay consistent and engaged in their care experience the most rewarding results. Your Invisalign investment goes far beyond the aligners themselves — it’s an investment in a lifetime of confident smiles and lasting oral health.

Ready To Take the Next Step?

If you’re considering an Invisalign investment or want to learn how to get the most out of your current treatment, Eggert Family Dentistry is here to help. Schedule a consultation or ask about Invisalign at your next visit and take the next step toward a lifetime of confident smiles.

If you’re ready to get started, we invite you to schedule an evaluation. Call 651.482.8412 to schedule your next appointment.

We can’t wait to see you soon!

Rebuilding My Smile from the Ground Up – Lynn’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Lynn started as a patient of the practice with Dr. Jensen in 2000 and transitioned her dental care to Dr. Elizabeth in 2005, when she took over his practice. During this time, she had five teeth restored with porcelain crowns and continued to require additional restorations over the following years. In 2018, due to the ongoing restorative needs and the complexity of her case, Dr. Elizabeth recommended that Lynn undergo the “Records Process” to allow for a comprehensive evaluation and to develop a detailed treatment plan for her care. Lynn also was having many changes and challenges with her medical history, including serious balance, movement, and mobility movement changes.

Dr. Elizabeth guided Lynn through the Records Process to evaluate how her bite was currently functioning. This process included diagnostic models, clinical photographs, and radiographs of Lynn’s teeth, along with a comprehensive muscle and joint evaluation. These records allowed Dr. Elizabeth to assess and present the current condition of Lynn’s teeth, gums, jaw joints, and the function of her jaw muscles.

Based on the findings, it was recommended that Lynn begin splint therapy using an anterior deprogrammer. This step was necessary to help relax the jaw muscles and determine a stable, repeatable bite position. Part of the reason Lynn kept cracking and chipping her teeth was because she didn’t have a stable bite position. Restoring Lynn’s teeth without first establishing a consistent bite could have compromised the longevity of any work to be done. Once a stable bite position was identified through the deprogramming process, adjustments to her bite were planned with restorations to achieve the best long-term stability.

What was recommended?

As mentioned, Lynn started her splint therapy with an anterior deprogrammer, which should have helped her muscles relax into a more repeatable bite. However, one of the most important things to understand about splint therapy is that it does NOT always improve the condition (at least right away), but no matter if the condition stays the same, gets better, or gets worse, we learn something from this diagnostic process.

Lynn had a fairly difficult time adjusting to the anterior deprogrammer and found that her sleep was affected. She also had many other red flags for poor sleep quality, including the medical changes she was experiencing. Lynn elected to have a formal sleep test done and she was diagnosed with moderate sleep apnea, as well as having many arousal events each night. Lynn and Dr. Elizabeth changed Lynn’s splint therapy to the sleep-based Seattle Protocol and they learned that Lynn’s sleep, pain, and bite improved when her lower jaw was in a forward position. This helped Lynn and Dr. Elizabeth learn that Lynn’s teeth and tongue craved more room to function better. Lynn elected to undergo Invisalign treatment with Dr. Elizabeth. The goals for her treatment were to expand the room in her oral cavity and then restore her teeth to match this improved location for her bite.

Invisalign is a clear aligner orthodontic system and is used to gradually move teeth into their ideal positions. Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, removable aligners that apply gentle, controlled forces to shift the teeth over time. In Lynn’s case, Invisalign was used to properly align her teeth and create the correct spacing and positioning needed before completing her final restorative work. Establishing proper tooth alignment helped ensure a more stable bite and allowed for more predictable, long-lasting restorative results.

What did she want?

Lynn wanted her teeth to look better, but she also wanted things to feel better. She wanted improved sleep, she wanted her teeth to last. She didn’t want to have to always be thinking about them – whether they would break or crack on her. Lynn expressed that she did not want “glowing white” teeth, but she did want her smile to appear noticeably whiter and more natural. Her goal was to achieve teeth that looked healthy, felt both functional, and beautiful. She wanted her new teeth done as quickly as possible, but she understood the benefits of the orthodontic treatment, which did take more time to undergo.

What was involved?

In just over a year, Lynn completed her Invisalign treatment. She was even able to continue her care during her winters in sunny Florida! Invisalign was very successful in expanding for more room for Lynn, but we knew that without restorations throughout her mouth, it would still be difficult to manage her bite long-term. Invisalign helped with improving her muscle stability, but her bite still was not always able to find a repeatable position due to the shapes of her original teeth.

A laboratory wax-up was done to create a blueprint of Lynn’s future restorations. Then, over the course of two days, nearly all her teeth were carefully prepared in preparation for the placement of porcelain crowns and veneers. These restorations would improve Lynn’s bite, function, and overall smile.

What does Lynn think?

Lynn told us that before undergoing this process with Dr. Elizabeth she was unsure what she even wanted or could ask for. “It was all unknowns.” Lynn was excited to have everything done though, especially because of the prospect of how it could improve her breathing and her health and because her husband had undergone some cosmetic tooth work himself.

After all that was involved, Lynn told us that she is very pleased with everything, even though she ran into medical complications and COVID along the way, in the end she notes, “It was effortless. It was surprisingly easy.”

She told us that if she was talking to someone thinking about undergoing a full mouth dental reconstruction, she would tell them “It’s worth it! It’s a long process, but it’s worth it and you’ll feel so much better in the end!”

Congratulations, Lynn! Thank you for putting your trust in us. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we truly believe in helping our patients achieve a lifetime of smiles and yours is a shining example. We were delighted to guide you through this journey and look forward to caring for you and your family for many years to come.

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

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

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

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

What was recommended?

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

What did she want?

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

What was involved?

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

What does she think?

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

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

New Crowns and Veneers – Not Scary at All! – Joy’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Eggert Family Dentistry is celebrating 20 years this October! Joy has been there with Dr. Elizabeth the whole time! In 1993, Joy fell and experienced trauma to her front teeth. She had root canals and crowns done at that time, but was starting to notice a crack in the porcelain of one of the crowns and she didn’t like the staining that showed. She also wondered about better color matching for all her front teeth since at that time, only 2 teeth had crowns. For a few years, she asked Dr. Elizabeth what could be done, but was always nervous to move forward with treatment because she couldn’t decide if she was willing to accept her currently darker coloring or if she wanted something brighter and younger looking for her smile. She also now has Parkinson’s disease and notices that caring for her teeth is getting more difficult, as well as sitting through dental treatment, so she didn’t want to keep putting off the decision.

What was recommended?

Dr. Elizabeth verified the recommended treatment using photographs and 3D models of Joy’s teeth. Joy wanted to improve the color of her teeth, making everything brighter. Therefore, it was recommended to do porcelain restorations for all 4 of her upper front teeth. That way, the old crowns could be replaced and the other front teeth could also be better protected where wear and cracking was starting. Since Joy also wanted brighter teeth throughout her mouth, it was recommended that she start with bleaching so the rest of the teeth could be brighter too!

What was involved?

Joy wondered about her lower teeth and if anything could be done for the crowding, but she didn’t want to undergo Invisalign so she decided to just move ahead with the bleaching and upper restorations. Dr. Elizabeth worked up Joy’s case by mocking up a proposal on Joy’s models, looking at how the crowding in the lower teeth contributed to the slight length discrepancy of her front teeth.

Dr. Elizabeth suggested making the front teeth the same length which would also require adjusting on Joy’s lower teeth. Joy thought this was a better idea for her than Invisalign, so they moved ahead with the plan.

Joy started with Zoom whitening, which really helped her teeth brighten up multiple shades and allowed Joy to have all her teeth brightened, while minimizing the number of restorations.

Joy underwent the preparation appointment. Dr. Elizabeth noticed that Joy’s previously traumatized teeth were especially dark from the trauma. She worked to mask the color difference as much as possible, but informed Joy that perfect color matching might not be possible. Joy accepted that since she really wanted to keep her teeth, rather than extract them and replace with implants. So, after a couple of weeks, Dr. Elizabeth inserted Joy’s porcelain restorations – 2 veneers and 2 crowns.

What does Joy think?

After the procedures were completed we met with Joy to reevaluate her restorations and see how she was feeling about the treatment. She reported that everything was been feeling great and that her bite felt good. We asked Joy what she thought about getting the procedures done. She noted, “It was kind of scary. I knew a lot would be involved so I was scared.” In the end, Joy said the process was better than she thought it would be – actually, not scary at all! Joy told us, “I am so happy with it. I was looking a little dull so this brightens my smile, but it’s not over the top – it’s just enough! It’s better!” When we asked her what she would tell a friend or relative who was considering the same treatment, she said “It’s worth the investment!”

You look fabulous Joy and we appreciate your trust in us for over 20 years! We look forward to continuing to bring you “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles!”

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!

Keeping Your Invisalign Journey on Track: Tips for Success

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

What Is Invisalign?

Invented in the late 1990’s and first marketed in 2000, Invisalign^® is a less invasive, more aesthetic alternative to traditional braces. The Invisalign journey consists of a series of see-through trays, or aligners, that a patient swaps out regularly to help realign teeth into their proper position. These aligners are constructed of medical-grade thermoplastic polymers and are considered safe by the FDA.

Who Is and Who Isn’t a Candidate for Invisalign?

As opposed to traditional braces, the Invisalign journey requires a level of developmental maturity. Trays must be worn consistently, maintained properly, and swapped out at regular intervals per Dr. Elizabeth Eggert’s or Dr. Jeff Eggert’s recommendations. Consequently, Invisalign is typically recommended for responsible adolescents and adults as opposed to young children.

If you’re dealing with active gum disease or other severe oral issues, or if you think your adolescent isn’t mature enough to properly manage their Invisalign aligners and treatment, traditional braces may still be the best choice.

Learn more in our article Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces: Which is Right for You?

Tips for a Successful Invisalign Journey!

To make your Invisalign treatment successful, keep these important tips in mind!

Practice good oral hygiene.

Good hygiene is always important, but because aligners fit snugly against teeth and create a sealed environment, it’s even more crucial during an Invisalign treatment. Thoroughly brushing your teeth after each meal and before putting your aligners back in will ensure that food particles don’t get trapped against your teeth, causing cavities, plaque build-up, or gum disease. Good oral care will also keep aligners from becoming stained and keep your breath and aligners fresh.

Wear your aligners for 20+ hours a day.When it comes to Invisalign success, consistency is key. It might take a little time to adjust to speaking while wearing your aligners. Don’t worry! You will adjust quickly. Be sure to keep your aligners in unless you’re eating or drinking anything other than water. Then, replace them as soon as you brush your teeth. The more consistent you are with the process, the more quickly you’ll see results.
Use aligner chewies for proper placement.Biting down on these soft cylinder “chewies” will reduce any gaps between your aligners and your teeth and ensure your aligners fit snugly. Chewies help ease discomfort from improperly fitting aligners and can be ordered through Invisalign. Using your plastic toothbrush handle can be an easy alternative for chewies.

Swap aligners at recommended intervals.Aligners need to be replaced every week or two. Keep track of which day you need to swap out your aligner, and don’t try to stretch the length of time you wear each one.

Tip: Use the Invisalign app! Not only does it remind you when it’s time to swap out your aligner, but it will also help you monitor your progress, manage your appointments, keep up on best practices, and get customer support.

Always hold onto your previous aligner.

That way, if your current aligner cracks or gets lost, you can revert to your previous aligner until you can talk with Eggert Family Dentistry about your next best plan!

Follow the protocol outlined by Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert.

Ultimately, we highly recommend you stick with all of Dr. Elizabeth Eggert’s and Dr. Jeff Eggert’s recommendations. Each person’s Invisalign treatment is unique and our office will create a customized treatment plan that sets you up for success and helps you reach your goals.

Read Matthew’s Invisalign success story here! And, our latest patient of the month, “W’s” story here.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Invisalign journey and if it’s right for you, we’d love to see you for a consultation in our office! Schedule an appointment at Eggert Family Dentistry today by calling us at 651.482.8412.

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.

“I Want a Bright and Beautiful Smile!” – Shelley’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Shelley has been a long-time patient of Eggert Family Dentistry and was interested in Invisalign treatment as she felt that her teeth were crooked and she wanted to have a smile that she felt good about in family pictures. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert recommended that she go through the complete Records Process to analyze her bite and airway as well. Dr. Elizabeth wondered if there was more at play due to information that Shelley has shared with us over the years. Shelley also wanted to learn more about sleep appliances as she uses a CPAP.

What did she want?

Shelley wanted to have a white, bright, and beautiful smile. She wanted to feel good about her smile in family pictures, and with the many moments in the future that would be captured, she wanted to be confident about her smile and be able to enjoy and cherish these memories.

What was recommended?

Through the records process and with information from her doctor, it was determined that the position of Shelley’s front teeth and the existing wear likely are at least partially due to airway compromises, both at night and during the day. To correct the crowding, it was recommended that Shelley start with Invisalign. Through this process, Dr. Elizabeth would be able to unravel the crowding. However, it was noted Shelley’s tongue and arch form needed more space than her teeth would allow, so Invisalign would create spacing between her teeth. Dr. Elizabeth talked with Shelley about restoring her upper front teeth with crowns or veneers after Invisalign to account for the space discrepancy and to help protect the enamel that Shelley has worn away over the years.

What was involved?

Once the Invisalign was completed, Shelley did some whitening to brighten her smile and prepare for her restorations. Impressions were taken to develop a wax-up or “blue print.” It was only necessary to do restorations for Shelley’s upper front six teeth to help with the spacing issue and to better protect her enamel. Shelley was happy with the wax-up and so Dr. Elizabeth Eggert prepared her teeth and the restorations were fabricated. It was necessary to do more extensive porcelain restorations for Shelley – crowns that covered the whole tooth, because of existing fillings in those teeth. Zirconia crowns were done. Zirconia is a very strong all-porcelain material that has become very esthetic as well. More and more, it is being chosen for even front teeth.

What does she think?

We asked Shelley what she thought once the Invisalign and restorations were all completed and what she thought about the whole process. She said, “This is awesome and I’ve gotten a lot of compliments.” “Everything was great and went very smoothly – you guys were perfect!” When asked what advice she would offer a friend or family member thinking of changing their smile, she said, “Prepare and be patient, but I’m so happy I did this!” Congratulations Shelley! We love working with patients like you! If you’ve been thinking about improving your smile, contact us today to learn more about what Eggert Family Dentistry can do for you! 651-482-8412.