Category: Our Practice

Our Latest Technology Working for You! Eggert Family Dentistry Adds CBCT

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, we’re excited to announce a groundbreaking addition to our practice: Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) technology. This state-of-the-art equipment revolutionizes the way we diagnose and treat dental conditions, offering unparalleled insights into patients’ oral health. With the recent installation of the Carestream CS 9600 CBCT, we’re poised to enhance our ability to evaluate infections, assess the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and analyze the airway with unprecedented clarity and precision.

CBCT technology represents a significant advancement in dental imaging, providing detailed 3D images of the teeth, jawbone, nerve canals, bone levels, and surrounding structures. Unlike traditional dental X-rays, which offer a two-dimensional view, CBCT scans offer a comprehensive and detailed three-dimensional (3D) perspective, enabling us to identify issues that may not be visible through conventional imaging methods.

 

What Sets CBCT Apart?

One of the key features of the Carestream CS 9600 CBCT is its high image resolution, which allows for superior visualization of anatomical structures with minimal distortion. This level of clarity is invaluable in diagnosing complex dental conditions and planning precise treatment strategies tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

With this advanced technology at our disposal, we’re better equipped to evaluate and diagnose a wide range of dental issues, including infections, impacted teeth, jaw abnormalities, and even sinus problems. Additionally, the CBCT scan provides valuable insights into the TMJ, helping us identify signs of dysfunction and develop targeted treatment plans to alleviate discomfort and restore proper function.

As part of our commitment to providing exceptional care, we’re pleased to offer CBCT scans to all patients undergoing our Records Process in 2024 at no additional charge (a $435 value!). By integrating CBCT technology into our practice, we aim to elevate the standard of care and ensure that each patient receives the most accurate diagnosis and effective treatment possible.

CBCT technology has been evolving for many years. We are lucky to now be able to share this with you and continue our commitment to being “State of the Art.” The introduction of Cone Beam CT technology represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance patient care and outcomes at Eggert Family Dentistry. With the Carestream CS 9600 CBCT, we’re able to leverage cutting-edge imaging capabilities to deliver personalized, precision-driven dental care that prioritizes patient comfort, safety, and overall well-being. We look forward to utilizing this advanced technology to transform smiles and improve lives in our community. If you want to experience all that has to offer, ask Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert at your next recare appointment. Or, if you’ve been putting off undergoing the Records Process, here is your chance to really learn all that you can about your oral health. Call us today at 651-482-8412!

Navigating Life’s Unexpected Turns: Asking for Your Support from Eggert Family Dentistry

Life has a curious way of throwing unexpected challenges our way, reminding us of its unpredictability and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, the recent diagnosis of Dr. Jeff Eggert’s 43-year-old brother, Matt, with Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer, has illuminated this reality with stark clarity.

Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that arises from the thyroid gland. Unlike other types of thyroid cancer, it tends to grow and spread rapidly, making treatment challenging. Prognosis for patients diagnosed with Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer is often guarded, with survival rates significantly lower compared to other forms of thyroid cancer. The average life expectancy is 6 months and there is no predictable treatment.

In the midst of this challenging time, Dr. Jeff Eggert remains committed to his patients at Eggert Family Dentistry. However, as is understandable in such circumstances, there may be instances when his schedule will need to be adjusted to accommodate family needs. The team at Eggert Family Dentistry appreciates your understanding and patience in advance.

The journey through cancer is not one that anyone should face alone. As Dr. Jeff Eggert stands with his brother, Matt, and his parents, the outpouring of support from the community serves as a beacon of hope and resilience. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the light of compassion and unity can guide us forward.

In the face of life’s unexpected twists and turns, it is the strength of the human spirit and the bonds of unity that sustain us. As we at Eggert Family Dentistry navigate this journey with grace and resilience, we invite you all to embrace the unpredictability of life with courage, compassion, and unwavering support for one another.

The Fizz Dilemma: How Carbonated Water Affects Your Tooth Enamel

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Carbonated water, with its effervescent charm, has gained immense popularity among health-conscious individuals and soda lovers alike. It offers a refreshing alternative to sugary sodas. But have you ever wondered if those satisfying bubbles could be harming your pearly whites? In this article, we delve into the science behind the effects of carbonated water on tooth enamel, explore alternatives, and discuss how Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, Dentists at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, can help you maintain a radiant and healthy smile.

Understanding Carbonated Water

Carbonated water, also known as sparkling water or seltzer, is water infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure, creating delightful bubbles and fizz. While it’s often considered a healthier alternative to sugary beverages, it’s not without its concerns when it comes to your dental health.

The Science Behind It

When you enjoy a bubbly sip of carbonated water, the carbon dioxide dissolves in the water to form carbonic acid. It’s this mild acid that raises concerns for your tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth. It’s primarily composed of minerals, particularly hydroxyapatite, which can be vulnerable to acid erosion.

Carbonated water is mildly acidic, with a pH around 4.5, making it more acidic than tap water (pH 7). Regularly exposing your teeth to acidic substances can weaken and erode the enamel over time, leaving your teeth more susceptible to cavities and sensitivity.

Carbonated Water vs. Soda Pop

Surprisingly, carbonated water may be just as bad for your teeth as soda pop, albeit in a slightly less severe way. The carbonic acid in sparkling water can erode enamel gradually, while soda contains not only acid but also sugars that bacteria feed on, producing harmful acids. This can lead to more immediate and severe tooth decay.

Alternatives to Carbonated Water

If you’re concerned about your dental health but still want a refreshing beverage, there are alternative choices. Plain water is, of course, the best option for your teeth, as it is pH-neutral and doesn’t pose any risks to your tooth enamel. Herbal teas and unsweetened iced tea are also great alternatives. If you prefer carbonation, you can limit your consumption of carbonated water to meal time and consider switching to unflavored options or those with added minerals like calcium, which can help counteract the acidity.

Eggert Family Dentistry: Your Dental Health Allies

Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, our dentists at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, are dedicated to helping you maintain excellent oral health. They provide expert dental care, including preventive services, dental hygiene, and advice on maintaining strong and healthy teeth. Regular dental recare visits with check-ups and professional cleanings are crucial to addressing any enamel erosion concerns and maintaining your radiant smile.

Recently, Dr. Elizabeth completed an exam for a patient we hadn’t seen in over a year. This patient had 3 fillings recommended in January, 2022 due to decay between her teeth. Unfortunately, now, not even two years later, she has 8 fillings recommended and 2 crowns because her decay rate is rampant. When Dr. Elizabeth suspected something in the diet or a health change, she questioned this patient and together they determined the patient often drinks over 4 carbonated waters each day, sipping them throughout the day.

While carbonated water may have a milder impact on your tooth enamel compared to soda pop, it’s essential to be mindful of its acidic nature. You can enjoy sparkling water in moderation and opt for alternatives that are more tooth-friendly.

And when it comes to safeguarding your dental health, trust Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert at Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, to guide you on your journey to healthy, vibrant teeth. Your smile is worth preserving, and they’re here to help you do just that. Call us today to schedule your next recare visit! 651.482.8412!

Comprehensive Dental Care for All Ages: Why Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert Should Be Your Family Dentists in North Oaks, MN

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Are you searching for a family dentist who can cater to the dental needs of your entire family, from kids to teenagers, adults and even seniors? Look no further than Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, leading dentists in North Oaks, MN. We offer comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of transitioning all of your family members to our practice and highlight the value we bring in ensuring your family’s proper dental development.

The All-Inclusive Approach

Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert have earned a stellar reputation for our family-friendly dental practice. Our commitment to providing top-notch care for patients of all ages sets us apart as your go-to family dentists. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we take a comprehensive approach to oral health, including not only detection of decay and periodontal disease, but of growth and development issues, airway issues, sleep issues, and a whole lot more.

Transitioning Children and Teenagers

It’s common for kids to start their dental journey with a pediatric dentist, and this can be appropriate up to a certain age. However, as children grow and develop adult teeth, it becomes essential to transition them to a family-friendly dentist. Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert have the expertise to handle the unique dental needs of kids, teenagers, and young adults, ensuring that their oral health is carefully monitored during crucial stages of development.

Detecting Decay and Ensuring Proper Development

One of the most critical reasons to transition your child or teenager to Eggert Family Dentistry is our ability to detect dental issues early. Untreated cavities can lead to more significant problems in the future. By having your child seen regularly, you can address any decay or orthodontic concerns before they worsen.

Furthermore, ensuring proper dental development during adolescence is crucial. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we pay close attention to tooth alignment, bite issues, and orthodontic needs. Detecting and addressing these concerns early can lead to a smoother and more effective treatment plan, potentially saving you time, money, and discomfort down the road.

We Don’t Want to Scare You, But Check These Out!

This month being Halloween, we want to share a couple patient stories. These are SCARY situations where we wish we could have been introduced to the patients earlier and caught things before they became so serious. Luckily Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth know what to do to help these patients, but prevention is always our goal!

Here is an example of a teenage patient undergoing orthodontics and who was working with a pediatric dentist. Unfortunately, this patient had a cavity that got so deep before Dr. Elizabeth found it that she had to build up a serious amount of the tooth to bring it back to health.

Here is another example of excessive decay. This is a senior citizen who was going regularly to another general dental office, but her decay got so deep, she has to lose an anchorage tooth of her front tooth bridge. The patient has to invest in a new bridge in order to keep her front teeth from going missing.

Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert have seen countless families benefit from their all-encompassing approach to dentistry. It is also so rewarding to see trends in families and to be able to stop disease on the early side by paying attention. Schedule an appointment today for all your family members and experience the difference that dedicated, all-ages dental care can make. We can’t wait to bring your family to ours! 651.482.8412.

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!

Revolutionizing Dental Care with the iTero Scanning Unit at Eggert Family Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

In the northeast suburbs of the Twin Cities, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert of Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, are taking dental care to new heights with the innovative iTero scanning unit. This cutting-edge technology is not only streamlining the process of scanning for Invisalign cases, but also enhancing a wide range of other dental procedures, ensuring patients receive top-notch care in a comfortable and efficient manner.

The Power of iTero:  A Game-Changer in Dental Scanning

Traditional dental impressions were once synonymous with discomfort, gooey molds, and anxious waiting. Fortunately, times are changing. Dental scanning units, like the iTero, are starting to change the way we are able to approach dental care. Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff are now able to use these state-of-the-art scanning units to complete your care, helping to make the patient experience smoother and more precise.

The iTero scanner is a handheld device that uses advanced digital technology to create a 3D model/scan of a patient’s teeth and gums. This can eliminate the need for messy impression materials, while still delivering highly accurate results. The process is non-invasive, comfortable, and efficient, drastically reducing chair time!

Enhancing Invisalign Treatment

At Eggert Family Dentistry, you will see the iTero scanning unit used most often as an invaluable tool for Dr. Elizabeth to scan for her Invisalign cases. Patients seeking orthodontic solutions can now bid farewell to traditional impressions and welcome the iTero experience!

The scanner captures thousands of images per second, allowing her to create a comprehensive digital model of your teeth. This scan/3D model is then used by Invisalign to plan the tooth movements with pinpoint accuracy, ensuring the aligners fit perfectly and deliver optimal results. The iTero technology even allows for us to simulate Invisalign movements during an average recare visit! Ask your hygienist about this today!

Beyond Invisalign:  The Versatility of iTero

While iTero has revolutionized Invisalign treatment, its benefits extend far beyond orthodontics. Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff can utilize the iTero scanning unit in various other dental procedures, such as crowns, bridges, and dental implants. The scanner’s accuracy and precision are essential in ensuring the success of these treatments.

The iTero scanner is particularly advantageous when it comes to the fabrication of restorations like crowns and bridges. With the digital model at their disposal, the doctors can collaborate with dental laboratories more effectively, resulting in restorations that fit seamlessly and look natural.

A Brighter, More Comfortable Future in Dentistry

The iTero scanning unit at Eggert Family Dentistry represents the future of dental care. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert are committed to providing their patients with the best possible experience, and iTero technology plays a vital role in achieving this goal. With this innovative tool, they can offer better dental care, ultimately leading to healthier, happier smiles.

If you’re seeking dental treatment that embraces cutting-edge technology to deliver superior results, look no further than Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN. Call us today for your consultation. We look forward to meeting with you! 651.482.8412.

Wishing You a Radiant Labor Day Weekend and a Bright Back-to-School Time!

Dear Valued Patients and Friends of Eggert Family Dentistry,

As we stand at the threshold of a delightful confluence – the exuberant Labor Day weekend and the much-anticipated return to school – we extend to you our warmest greetings and well wishes. Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, along with the entire team, want you to know how truly grateful we are to have you as a part of our dental family.

Labor Day is not just a day off but a tribute to your hard work, determination, and dedication. It’s a time to pause, take a breath, and celebrate the progress you’ve made on your life journey. As you savor this long weekend, may your hearts be light, your laughter be infectious, and your smiles be radiant reflections of the joy you bring to those around you.

The back-to-school season, filled with anticipation and potential, is also upon us. Dr. Jeff Eggert, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, and our team want to extend our encouragement to all the students venturing into new horizons of knowledge and personal growth. May your pursuit of education be marked by curiosity, perseverance, and those “aha” moments that make learning so exhilarating.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, your smiles are our priority, and we’re here to ensure your oral health is in its best form. As you dive into your schedules, remember to take a moment for self-care and maintain those beautiful smiles that light up our practice. If it’s time for your regular recare visit or if you have any questions, remember that our doors are open to serve you.

This Labor Day weekend, as you reflect on your achievements and embrace the promise of the back-to-school season, let your spirits soar and your smiles shine brightly. Dr. Jeff Eggert, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, and our entire team are here to support you on your journey, ensuring that your dental health remains as vibrant as your aspirations.

From our hearts to yours, have a joyful Labor Day weekend and a splendid return to school!

Warmest Regards,

Dr. Jeff Eggert, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, and the Eggert Family Dentistry Team

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.