Category: Our Practice

🎉 Celebrating 20 Years of Smiles at Eggert Family Dentistry! 🎉

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

October 2005 – October 2025

You’re invited! This October, we are celebrating 20 incredible years of serving the North Oaks and Twin Cities community. Back in October 2005, our founder, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert, opened the doors with the intention to provide “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles.” Fast-forward 20 years and Eggert Family Dentistry is recognized as a warm, caring, family-friendly, and high-tech dental practice. And, after two decades and we’re so grateful for patients like you — the friendships, the trust, the daily smiles.

To honor the milestone, we’re turning this month into a fun celebration — and you’re part of it!

What’s happening on our Facebook page

We’ve been posting special content all month on our Facebook page.  In honor of Eggert Family Dentistry’s 20th anniversary, we’re posting daily trivia all October! To enter, comment to the Facebook post with the correct answer for a chance to win a “Night in Stillwater!” Everyone is eligible to submit one answer each day, which means up to 31 chances! Correct answers revealed throughout the month as an edit to the original post. We will accept answers/guesses until the answer is posted. Good luck!

The comments have been rolling in – it’s fun seeing how many of you remember our 20 year journey. Check these posts at Eggert Family Dentistry’s Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Eggert.Family.Dentistry//. Here are a few highlights:

  • On October 14:
    “What is a favorite hobby of Dr. Jeff?”

  • On October 18:
    “Dr. Elizabeth is on a quest to do what?”

  • On October 21:
    “Who was one doctor that covered Dr. Elizabeth’s maternity leave when Grant was born in 2009?”

Join the Trivia Fun — & Win a “Night in Stillwater”

Here’s how you can participate and win:

  1. Visit our Facebook page and look for the daily trivia post.
  2. Comment on the trivia post with your answer.
  3. Each correct entry gets you a chance to win a “Night in Stillwater” — our fun way of saying we’re giving away a little local stay-cation (details in the post).
  4. Don’t worry if you miss a day — we will accept answers/guesses until we post the answer so there are still plenty of chances to play throughout October and November.

So yes — you’re absolutely invited to join in the fun, test your Eggert Family Dentistry knowledge, and maybe walk away with the prize. It’s a win-win: you get to reminisce, we get to celebrate, and we all get to smile together.

👍 Stay connected — follow our Facebook page

If you haven’t already, here’s how to stay in the loop:

  • Go to Facebook and search Eggert Family Dentistry (North Oaks, MN).
  • Click Follow (or Like) and then turn on Notifications so you don’t miss a trivia post, photo memory, or special announcement.
  • Invite your family and friends too — the more, the merrier!

By following us you’ll be the first to know about future events, giveaways, practice updates, and awesome patient-community moments.

Thank You for the Past 20 Years!

You’ve trusted us — whether it’s your first check-up, treatment for your kids, a cosmetic smile enhancement, or simply routine recare visit and cleaning. We appreciate the opportunity to care for you and your family’s smiles.

Here’s to the next 20 years of wellness, technology, warm visits, and big-hearted dental care. And in the meantime — dive into our trivia, join the celebration, and let’s mark this milestone together.

See you on Facebook!

Warmly,
The Team at Eggert Family Dentistry
700 Village Center Drive, Suite 120, North Oaks MN 55127
(651) 482-8412

Scaling and Root Planing:
 A Deeper Clean for Better Health

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If you visit our office regularly, you’re already educated about the threat of gum disease. We make it a priority to teach our patients how to care for their teeth and prevent its harmful effects. Unfortunately, it can sometimes develop despite our best efforts, and when it does, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert of Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN address it directly.

In this article, we’ll provide a concise overview of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, and explain how scaling and root planing can help stop—and in some cases even reverse—its effects before it leads to tooth loss or other systemic health issues.

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth, typically starting as gingivitis—the mild, reversible stage marked by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily. Without treatment, it can progress to a more serious form of periodontal disease, often referred to as periodontitis, where the infection damages the bone and connective tissue, leading to gum recession, loose teeth, and often tooth loss.

Gum disease develops when plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—builds up on teeth and hardens into tartar, irritating the gums and causing inflammation. Common signs include bleeding gums, bad breath, swollen or tender gums, receding gums, and shifting teeth. Good oral hygiene at home and regular dental visits are key to preventing and treating gum disease.

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a deep-cleaning treatment used to address gum disease. Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from both above and below the gum line, where regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental cleanings can’t reach. Root planing smooths the surfaces of the tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to cling and helping the gums heal and reattach to the teeth.

Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert typically recommend this procedure when gum disease has advanced beyond gingivitis and deep pockets have formed between the gums and teeth. Unlike a routine cleaning, which focuses on the visible surfaces of teeth, scaling and root planing targets the deeper areas where infection has taken hold, especially below the gum line, helping to stop disease progression and protect your smile.

The Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing delivers lasting benefits that protect your gums, teeth, and overall oral health. By targeting the bacteria and tartar that contribute to gum disease, this treatment can improve healing, prevent further damage, and support a healthier mouth.

Key benefits include:

  • Halting the progression of gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from deep beneath the gums
  • Reducing inflammation and bleeding, allowing gums to heal and stay healthy
  • Helping prevent tooth loss by stopping the infection that can loosen teeth
  • Supporting bone and gum tissue regeneration, promoting recovery of oral structures
  • Improving breath and overall oral hygiene by eliminating bacteria and plaque buildup

What to Expect from Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is typically done over one or more visits, depending on the extent of the gum disease. During the procedure, the magnificent hygienists at Eggert Family Dentistry will use specialized instruments to carefully remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Then they will smooth the tooth roots to help the gums reattach. Often both a water treatment, using a Cavitron, and hand instrumentation is used. A local anesthetic is generally used to ensure your comfort throughout the treatment.

After the procedure, proper healing and maintenance are essential. Our patients are encouraged to continue diligent oral hygiene at home—brushing, flossing, and using antimicrobial rinses, as recommended. Follow-up appointments allow our team to monitor your progress and, in some cases, prescribe antibiotics to support healing. At Eggert Family Dentistry, patient comfort and personalized care are a top priority, ensuring each visit is as gentle and effective as possible.

Addressing gum disease early on is one key to protecting your teeth, gums, and overall oral health, and advanced treatments like scaling and root planing can make a significant difference in halting its progression and promoting healing.

During routine recare visits, we can spot potential issues early—before they become serious. If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease or want to learn more about how scaling and root planing can support your oral health, give Eggert Family Dentistry a call at 651.482.8412 to set up an appointment!

How Dental Insurance Works, Common Coverage Gaps, and Why Dental Procedures Are Worth the Investment

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Dental insurance can be a valuable tool in helping you manage the cost of maintaining a healthy smile. However, many patients are surprised to learn that dental insurance doesn’t always cover the full cost—or in some cases, any of the cost—of the treatments recommended by Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert of Eggert Family Dentistry. Understanding how dental insurance works, where coverage gaps occur, and why it’s worth investing in procedures not covered by your plan can help you make informed, confident decisions about your oral health.

How Dental Insurance Plans Work

Unlike medical insurance, dental insurance is designed more as a benefit than a comprehensive health care plan. Most dental plans follow a cost-sharing model between the insurer and patient, which includes deductibles, copays, annual maximums, and coinsurance.

  • Deductible: A deductible is the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance begins covering costs. Preventive services like cleanings and exams often don’t require a deductible. But, unfortunately in this changing market, some new plans WILL require deductibles before they provide any benefits.
  • Copay: A copay is a predetermined dollar amount that patients must pay upfront for a medical or dental service. These can vary depending on the type of service you receive.
  • Annual Maximum: Most plans cap how much they’ll pay per year—commonly around $1,000–$1,500. Once you reach that limit, you pay for additional treatments out of pocket.
  • Coinsurance: After meeting your deductible, you typically share in the cost of treatments. For example, your plan might cover 80% of a procedure, leaving you responsible for the remaining 20%.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we do a lot to help you understand your insurance plan and how these terms apply to you. However, we always need you to understand that we have nothing to do with the makeup of your plan, we do not  determine your coverage, and we cannot do anything to “make your insurance company pay.” Your plan is decided by the agreement between your employer and the insurance provider, or by the plan you purchase individually. As always, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert may recommend a procedure because it’s best for your health, but that does not necessarily mean that you will have benefits from your insurance company for the procedure and your insurance may not agree to pay for it for you.

Why Doesn’t Insurance Cover Everything?

Most dental plans do not cover all procedures. Typically, they provide:

  • 100% coverage for preventive care, such as exams, cleanings, and x-rays
  • 80% coverage for basic procedures, such as fillings and simple extractions
  • 50% coverage for major procedures, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures

Some procedures—such as dental implants, orthodontics, or cosmetic dentistry—may not be covered at all. Why? Insurance companies are a big business and many of them are out to maximize their profits. This means they often opt for the least expensive alternative treatment (LEAT). For example, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert may recommend a dental implant for its durability and long-term benefits, but your plan might only cover a partial denture because it costs them less.

Other common coverage limitations include:

  • Pre-existing conditions: Your plan might not cover treatments for conditions you had before enrollment.
  • Frequency limits: Your plan may limit the number of times they will pay for a procedure, like cleanings or exams per year, even if you need more to keep your oral health in tip-top shape.
  • Downcoding: Your insurance may change the procedure to a less expensive one, and you may be responsible for the difference.
  • Bundling: Multiple procedures may be combined into one “bundle” by the insurer, reducing your benefits.

Remember: Your dental plan is a financial agreement, not a treatment guide. It’s designed to manage costs, not dictate what care you receive. The most accurate way to think of it is like a good pre-paid coupon.

What to Do if a Procedure Isn’t Covered

If Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert recommends a procedure that isn’t covered, you have a few options:

  1. Look for covered alternatives: Sometimes, there’s a less expensive procedure that may at least partially address your dental issue and is covered by insurance. However, cheaper isn’t always better. Discuss with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert whether the alternative is a good fit for your situation.
  2. Ask us about payment options: At Eggert Family Dentistry, we want you to be able to receive the care you need. Please ask our business team about payment options, which can include credit cards or medical financing options like CareCredit, which let you spread out payments over time, often with little or no interest.
  3. Appeal insurance decisions: If a claim is denied because the procedure was deemed “not dentally necessary,” you can appeal. Kristina in our office works hard for you, appealing insurance company decisions every day. If she needs you to get involved, she’ll let you know and a phone call by you can also help move things along. Your insurance company wants to maintain a good relationship with you as you are their customer (often through your employer).

Ultimately, never skip a medically necessary procedure due to insurance limitations. Dental issues don’t resolve on their own—they worsen. Treating problems early can prevent pain, infection, and higher costs down the line.

Why Investing in Dental Procedures Is Worth It

While it’s natural to focus on cost and insurance coverage, sometimes it’s smarter—and more cost-effective—to invest in a procedure not fully covered by insurance. Here’s why:

  • Durability: Procedures like dental implants may cost more upfront but last for decades, unlike dentures or bridges that may need to be replaced.
  • Functionality: Higher-quality restorations often look, feel, and function like natural teeth, improving comfort and confidence.
  • Preventive Value: Early treatment can stop issues from escalating, saving you time, money, and discomfort later. It is also less likely that you will need to have things replaced as quickly if done right the first time!

Make Treatment Decisions Based on Your Health, Not Just on Coverage

Dental insurance is a helpful tool, but it should not be the only factor in deciding your treatment. Your oral health has lifelong impacts on your comfort, nutrition, self-confidence, and even overall health. When facing a treatment decision, talk openly with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert about your options, insurance coverage, and financing solutions.

Do you still have questions about what your plan covers or how to afford the treatment you need? Contact our team at Eggert Family Dentistry at 651.482.8412! We’re here to help you understand your options and get the care you need to stay healthy.

 

Breathe Easier: How to Improve Your Nasal Breathing During Allergy Season

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If you’ve found yourself constantly sniffling, sneezing, or feeling congested lately, you’re not alone. Spring and early summer are peak times for seasonal allergies, as pollen levels surge in the air. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 25% of adults and nearly 19% of children in the United States suffer from seasonal allergic rhinitis—commonly known as hay fever. This increase in allergens can make breathing through your nose a daily struggle, but the good news is, you have several effective options to help clear your nasal passages and breathe more easily.

What Are Your Triggers?

The first step to improving nasal breathing is identifying your triggers. Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds is one of the most common culprits this time of year. If you know you’re allergic to certain types of pollen, it’s helpful to track local pollen forecasts and try to stay indoors when counts are high—typically in the early morning or on windy days. Keeping windows closed and using an air purifier can also help minimize exposure indoors. By reducing your contact with allergens, you make it easier for your nose to stay clear and function normally.

What Can Be Done For The Nose?

One of the simplest and most natural ways to combat nasal congestion is to use a saline nasal spray every day. These sprays can even be used multiple times a day to rinse allergens and irritants out of your nasal passages. They’re non-medicated and safe for regular use, making them a great first line of defense. For a deeper clean, consider using a neti pot—a small device that flushes warm saline solution through your nasal cavity. Just be sure to use distilled or sterile water and clean your device after each use to avoid introducing bacteria.

If saline sprays and rinses aren’t enough, you may benefit from over-the-counter allergy medications. Nasal corticosteroids like Flonase (fluticasone) are particularly effective at reducing inflammation inside your nasal passages. When used daily during allergy season, these medications can significantly improve your ability to breathe through your nose. Antihistamines like cetirizine or loratadine can also help, especially if you have other symptoms like itchy eyes or sneezing. Be sure to talk to your doctor about what options might be best for you!

Why Breathing Through Your Nose Is So Important?

Improving your nasal breathing isn’t just about comfort—it’s also important for your overall health. Breathing through your nose helps filter, humidify, and warm the air you inhale, which can reduce your risk of respiratory infections and improve sleep quality. When nasal congestion forces you to breathe through your mouth, you may experience dry mouth, snoring, and even disrupted sleep patterns, leaving you feeling groggy and irritable during the day. From a dental perspective, we also see a lot more decay and periodontal disease in patients that breathe through their mouths because the saliva is affected and diminished.

By staying proactive and using the right combination of strategies—whether it’s saline rinses, allergy medication, or avoiding high-pollen environments—you can take control of your nasal health. As allergy season ramps up, don’t wait until you’re completely congested to act. Start incorporating these tools into your daily routine now, and you’ll be breathing easier in no time.

Why Do We Care?

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, our goal for all our patients is whole-body, overall health. We see patients every day who struggle to breathe through their noses. This not only makes their dental treatments more difficult, but keeps our patients from obtaining their ultimate health. We coach patients on breathing techniques and can make suggestions specific for you. We also have adjunctive services like Nitrous Oxide (Laughing) Gas and myofunctional exercises we can suggest to improve your ability to breathe through your nose. Call us today at 651.482.8412 and come in for your customized comprehensive exam! We look forward to helping you improve your health!

Elevating Dentistry: Dr. Eggert’s Insights from the AES Meeting & Other Updates

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Did you know that to be a licensed dentist in Minnesota, 50 hours of continuing education (CE) is required every 2 years?  Did you also know that Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert of Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN participate in over 4 times the amount of required CE, by attending over 100 hours of dental education courses EVERY year?!  We are so thankful to be able to take the extra time to be able to give our patients the latest and greatest experience in dentistry.

This month, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert attended the American Equilibration Society (AES) meeting in Chicago.  The AES is a world-respected group that holds a meeting each year, originating as a group that focuses on temporal mandibular disorders (TMD).  This group has evolved to include what’s up and coming in dentistry.  This year’s theme for the meeting was “The Better Dentist Project.”

Dr. Elizabeth Eggert was lucky to hear presentations about Digital Smile design and what is happening with digital mock-ups for case planning.  There is so much that can occur digitally, but the question always remains – will the digital result be better than the tried and true analog methods?  There really are a lot of exciting things happening in this realm.

Another topic addressed during the meeting is a concept Dr. Elizabeth is familiar with, but doesn’t get the opportunity to put into practice very often.  Did you know there is a strong connection between pain, including pain in the TMJ, and full-body alignment?  Without the body in a neutral position, the muscles are pulling, and dysfunction often occurs.  The splints Dr. Elizabeth fabricates help to give the body a different neurologic reference point, however, at times other forces in the feet, hips, spine, or shoulders fight the progress until we can also work with a physical therapist (PT) to help get the body in that neutral position.  Dr. Elizabeth is excited to see the strides PT and dentistry can make together once we train more PT providers in this area.

Dr. Elizabeth heard Dr. Erin Elliott from Idaho talk about the State of the Union of Dental Sleep Medicine – the Past, Present, and Future.  This talk was again a good review of concepts Dr. Elizabeth works to put into practice for her patients so they can be the best versions of themselves.  Without adequate sleep, especially great sleep quality, it is impossible to thrive!  Dr. Elliott works with many sleep appliances to help her patients and it was great to get her take on what is working best.  There have been improvements in the materials available in the last few years and it was nice to get a summary of what’s out there.

The meeting wrapped up with new concepts in periodontal health, implants, and the future of dentistry (“Dentistry in the Metaverse”).  It’s an exciting time to not only be a dentist, but to be a dental patient!  Call us at 651-482-8412 to schedule your next dental visit.  Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert can’t wait to share their knowledge with you.

Celebrate October: National Dental Hygiene Month at Eggert Family Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

October is National Dental Hygiene Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the importance of oral health and the professionals who help you maintain it. Dental hygiene plays a critical role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy, and this month is a reminder to prioritize regular cleanings and checkups. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, we take pride in educating you about how proper dental hygiene impacts your overall health, and we’re fortunate to have a team of skilled dental hygienists who are passionate about helping you achieve your best smile.

When you visit us for a cleaning, you interact the most with your dental hygienist. But what exactly do dental hygienists do? Beyond cleaning your teeth, they assess your oral health, screen for diseases, take X-rays, and provide personalized advice on how to care for your teeth and gums. They are your partners in maintaining good oral hygiene between visits, ensuring that you’re brushing and flossing effectively. It’s a hands-on, patient-centered career that requires both compassion and precision.

The journey to becoming a dental hygienist requires a solid educational foundation. Most dental hygienists complete a two-year associate degree in dental hygiene, although some may pursue a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene. In addition to coursework in anatomy, radiography, and periodontology, aspiring hygienists must complete clinical training, where they gain hands-on experience working with patients. After completing their education, they must pass national and state licensure exams before they can practice. This rigorous training ensures they are well-equipped to provide high-quality care and educate patients about oral health.

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we’re proud to have four exceptional dental hygienists on our team – Lea, Cassie, Emily, and Shelley. Each one brings a unique set of skills and experience to ensure you receive the best possible care. These hygienists are dedicated to making your dental visits as comfortable and informative as possible, and they are always happy to answer any questions you have about your oral health. Their expertise and friendly approach make every visit a positive experience.

 

So why not take this October as a reminder to focus on your dental health? Whether it’s scheduling a cleaning, learning new brushing techniques, or simply asking for advice, our dental hygienists are here to support you. They work diligently to prevent dental issues before they arise, helping you maintain a healthy smile for years to come.

This Dental Hygiene Month, we invite you to celebrate the role of dental hygienists and the crucial work they do. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we’re proud to have such a talented team that cares deeply about your oral health. So next time you’re in the office, take a moment to thank your hygienist for their dedication – and don’t forget to floss! Call us today at 651-482-8412 for your next recare appointment!

How CBCT Technology at Eggert Family Dentistry Can Help with TMD Diagnosis and Treatment

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If you’ve been struggling with jaw pain, popping, clicking, or stiffness, you may be dealing with TMD (temporal mandibular joint dysfunction). At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, we’re committed to helping you get to the root of what’s causing your discomfort. Thanks to our advanced CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) technology, we now have an even more precise way to diagnose and treat TMD, so you can find relief and regain comfort in your jaw.

CBCT scans offer 3D imaging that provides Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert with a comprehensive look at your jaw joint, surrounding bones, and expected areas for soft tissues. Unlike traditional X-rays, which offer only 2D images, CBCT technology gives us a 3D and detailed view of the complex structures that may be contributing to your TMD. This advanced imaging allows us to pinpoint any misalignments, degeneration, or abnormalities in your temporomandibular joint that could be causing your pain.

With this clearer picture, Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth can create a more targeted treatment plan designed specifically for your needs. Whether you need custom oral appliances, physical therapy, or even changes to your bite alignment, our goal is to help you manage your symptoms or keep you pain-free altogether. Having access to detailed CBCT images ensures that no aspect of your jaw’s health goes overlooked, giving us the ability to offer you more accurate and effective solutions.

If you’ve been dealing with chronic jaw pain or discomfort and aren’t sure what’s causing it, CBCT imaging could be the key to finding answers. Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert want to help you get to the bottom of what’s happening with your jaw joint. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we’re here to guide you toward relief and help you take steps toward a pain-free future. Call us for your consultation today! 651-482-8412.

Eggert Family Dentistry: Supporting Future Leaders with Scholarships

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

For nearly 20 years, Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, has proudly supported the aspirations of high school seniors through their dedicated scholarship program. This initiative reflects Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert’s commitment to investing in the future of their community. The scholarship program has evolved over the years, but its core mission remains the same: to recognize and reward deserving students for their hard work, achievements, and potential, especially those interested in a career in dentistry. Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff are still very thankful for the scholarships they received for college and dental school and therefore, they have made it their mission to “pay it forward” by supporting current high school students.

The scholarship program at Eggert Family Dentistry has grown significantly since its inception. Initially focused on a small group of candidates, the program now invites nominations from the entire community, aiming to reach a broader pool of talented students. Each year, the Eggert’s carefully review submissions to select one or two outstanding seniors who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance, community involvement, and a clear vision for their future. This comprehensive approach ensures that the scholarships are awarded to truly deserving individuals who are poised to make a positive impact in their chosen fields.

This year, Eggert Family Dentistry is excited to announce that they are still accepting applications for their 2024 scholarships until June 1, 2024. If you know a high school senior who exemplifies excellence and dedication, now is the time to nominate them. To submit a nomination, simply prepare a one-page summary detailing why this student deserves the scholarship. Include information about their high school accomplishments, future plans, and any relevant achievements. While the Eggert’s want to foster and nurture those considering a career in dentistry and therefore have a preference for students entering the dental field, they welcome and consider all nominations.

To nominate a deserving senior, email your submission to info@eggertfamilydentistry.com. The scholarship recipients will be announced at the end of the school year, providing an inspiring conclusion to their high school journey and a strong start to their future endeavors. The continuous acceptance of nominations throughout the year ensures that every deserving student has an opportunity to be considered.

For more information about the Eggert Family Dentistry scholarship program and its evolution over the years, please visit the Scholarship Winners scholarship page on their website. Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeff Eggert are passionate about supporting young leaders and are honored to contribute to their educational journeys. Your nomination could help a talented senior achieve their dreams, fostering the next generation of professionals and community leaders. Don’t miss this chance to make a difference in a young person’s life—submit your nomination today! Call our office with questions, 651-482-8412.

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.