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Revolutionizing Dentistry: The Benefits of iTero Scanning at Eggert Family Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

In the ever-evolving landscape of dentistry, technology continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing patient care and experience. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert have embraced the cutting-edge iTero scanning system, revolutionizing the way dental procedures are conducted. With over a year of experience utilizing this advanced technology, the benefits are abundantly clear, making it an indispensable tool in our practice.

What can iTero do?

One of the most significant advantages of the iTero scanning system is its versatility. Drs. Jeff and Elizabeth Eggert harness its capabilities for a myriad of dental procedures, from Invisalign case scanning to full arch scans for occlusal (night) guards and partial dentures. This versatility streamlines the workflow, allowing for more efficient and precise treatment planning, ultimately leading to better outcomes for our patients.

Furthermore, the iTero scanner eliminates the need for traditional impression materials, which can be uncomfortable and messy. Instead, patients experience a non-invasive, hassle-free scanning process that provides highly accurate digital impressions. This not only enhances patient comfort but also reduces the likelihood of errors, ensuring the success of procedures such as crown and bridge placements. While we aren’t yet able to scan for every procedure, we find we are able to use impression material less and less. We are excited to be attending this year’s Minnesota Dental Association’s dental meeting where Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth as well as Tracy and Heather, our magnificent dental assistants, will take a class about 3D printing capabilities in dentistry to see if we are able to move from traditional stone models to resin-based, printed models for tooth case planning! This would definitely decrease the number of impressions we have to take!

An iTero scan for restorative work, like making a crown.

The ability to see is real!

Beyond its practical applications, the iTero scanning system serves as a powerful educational tool for patients. Our patients love the ability to visualize their dental anatomy in real-time because it fosters a deeper understanding of their oral health and treatment options. Drs. Jeff and Elizabeth Eggert can effectively communicate treatment plans, demonstrating the potential outcomes with greater clarity, leading to informed decision-making and increased patient satisfaction. Our assistants, Tracy and Heather, have become scanning professionals and our hygienists are experimenting and learning the skill as well. As our hygienists continue to practice, they will be able to add a scan to your occasional recare visit to help us better understand changes over time of recession and wear!

Here’s an example of how iTero can do a simulation of how the teeth may move with Invisalign treatment.

Moreover, the digital nature of iTero scans enables seamless collaboration between dental professionals. Whether consulting with specialists or dental laboratories, the ability to share accurate digital impressions facilitates a higher level of precision and efficiency in treatment planning and execution. This collaborative approach ensures that our patients receive the best possible care, with all aspects of their treatment meticulously coordinated.

Ask for your scan today!

The adoption of the iTero scanning system at Eggert Family Dentistry represents a significant leap forward in dental technology. Drs. Jeff and Elizabeth Eggert leverage its versatility, accuracy, and educational capabilities to enhance every aspect of patient care. As they continue to harness the power of this innovative technology, our patients can rest assured knowing that they are receiving the highest standard of dental treatment available. Ask your hygienist or dental assistant if there is time at your appointment to take advantage of a free iTero scan for your mouth. Call us today at 651-482-8412 to stay on track with your dental care and schedule your next recare visit!

The Need to Replace a Restoration on a Front Tooth – Arlene’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Arlene is a patient of Dr. Elizabeth’s and suffered trauma to her front tooth over 40 years ago.  Because of the history of trauma, the tooth had a crown placed about the same time as the accident.  Over time restorations wear and tear and it is common that they have to be replaced.  The crown on her front tooth had been replaced once in 40 years and because of decay, it needed replacement again.  Insurance companies will tell you that an average lifespan of a dental crown is 5 years.  However, at Eggert Family Dentistry, we find that most commonly our crowns are lasting 15-20 years, assuming proper maintenance.  Proper maintenance means daily flossing and twice daily brushing, avoiding decay causing food and drink, and keeping forces on the teeth reasonable and even.  As a crown ages, the potential for problems gets greater and greater.  An aging crown can decay, break, or wear out.  Dr. Elizabeth was concerned about the decay starting on Arlene’s tooth under her crown and recommended a new crown.

What was involved?

In this case, and all cases involving only one restoration of front teeth, color matching can be the most difficult thing.  Arlene has crowding of her front teeth and her biting forces are not even, this also complicated her case.  Dr. Elizabeth talked about the pros and cons of doing more than one crown for color matching and to give the illusion of straighter teeth.  Dr. Elizabeth also talked with Arlene about changing her bite and alignment with orthodontics.  Arlene was not interested in these treatment options and elected to only replace the one crown.  She understood that the color may not match perfectly and was willing to take that chance.  She had also been living with an existing crown that was lighter in shade than her natural teeth because it had been done at a time in her life where the other teeth were lighter in color too.

After removing the existing crown on Arlene’s front tooth, Dr. Elizabeth noticed that the decay was much more extensive than she originally thought.  Dr. Elizabeth had to help Arlene understand her options, which included:

  • keeping her original tooth and only adding a new crown
  • having a root canal completed and a post added for retention of a new crown
  • having the tooth extracted and an implant or bridge placed. 

It was important to Arlene that her original tooth stay in her mouth, but she didn’t like the thought that the tooth didn’t have much retention due to the extent of the decay and that it was at risk of breaking at the gumline if she chose the crown alone.  Arlene needed some time to think about her options so Dr. Elizabeth made a temporary crown while Arlene had appointments with a root canal specialist and an oral surgeon to learn more about her other options.     

After careful consideration, Arlene elected to attempt to save the tooth over an extraction and implant, and had the root canal treatment completed in order to allow for a post that would add better retention for Arlene’s new crown.

To help with the color matching of this single restoration against Arlene’s natural teeth, Arlene made a trip to the dental lab for a custom shade appointment.  She thought it was just a “delightful” experience.

What does Arlene think?

Arlene was expecting to simply replace her existing crown.  She didn’t anticipate running into complications so she noted that the whole process took longer than she would have liked, but she was happy that it “definitely took less time than getting an implant!”

She is very happy to have her natural tooth and hopes it will last for many more years.  She knows to be careful with the tooth and use it guardingly when biting into foods like carrots, apples, pizza crusts, and anything else she might eat in the end-to-end position.

Arlene is lucky to still have her tooth after it was traumatized over 40 years ago!  Her story is just one of many others who have also experienced magnificent results with Dr. Eggert at Eggert Family Dentistry of North Oaks.  Crowns can yield beautiful and predictable results for accomplishing an improved smile!  At Eggert Family Dentistry, we love providing “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles” – thanks Arlene for trusting us to help you continue to smile big and confidently.

Dental Health Resolution List

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

The link between oral health and overall health and systemic disease is real. If you aren’t sure which dental health resolutions to focus on, here’s a list of 10 dental health resolutions to help you kickstart your dental health journey in 2024:

1. Minimally, Brush 2x and Floss 1x Per Day

Develop a consistent oral hygiene routine by brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once daily. It’s important to brush first thing in the morning to remove any plaque that may have built up overnight, while brushing right before bed removes any food particles or debris that accumulated throughout the day. Flossing helps reach areas between teeth that brushing alone may miss, and is the most effective way to prevent gingivitis and gum disease.

2. Schedule Regular Recare Appointments

Make a commitment to attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings, which should be scheduled at your personalized and recommended interval. For some patients this means every 3 months, for some this means every six months. These appointments allow Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert to monitor your oral health, identify potential issues early on like decay and periodontal disease, and for your favorite hygienist to provide a professional cleaning to remove plaque and calculus buildup. At these appointments we also provide an oral cancer screening as well as look at your bite, and any airway issues. If you don’t yet have your next recare appointment scheduled, make sure to call Eggert Family Dentistry and schedule your appointment today!

3. Address Any Dental Problems

Stop putting your dental problems on the backburner! If you experience any pain, sensitivity, or notice changes in your bite, schedule an appointment at Eggert Family Dentistry as soon as possible. Early intervention can prevent more expensive treatments in the future. Many patients think that they can put these conversations off until their next recare appointment. This can work occasionally, but be sure to call and we will ask you a series of questions and bring your case to the attention of Dr. Jeff and Dr. Elizabeth to determine if you should be seen right away.

4. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

Everyone knows that drinking enough water is good for your overall health, but did you know that staying hydrated improves your dental health as well? Water helps flush away food particles, bacteria, and acids, which leaves your mouth cleaner and healthier. Staying adequately hydrated will also decrease the acidity of your saliva, which can keep your teeth protected from decay. It is also important to note that REGULAR water is not the same as bubbly water. Bubbly water may be popular, but it is not as hydrating and it is full of acid, which is damaging for the teeth.

5. Quit Smoking

Quitting smoking not only benefits your overall health but also significantly improves your oral health. Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancers. Eggert Family Dentistry is committed to helping you find the support and resources to quit smoking for a healthier mouth and body.

6. Don’t Use Your Teeth as a Tool

Do you use your teeth to open packages and water bottles? How about chewing on your nails or hangnails? There’s no faster way to chip and crack your front teeth! Get yourself a nice pair of scissors and a nail clipper and save yourself an unexpected trip to our office.

7. Upgrade Your Toothbrush

In 2024, consider investing in an electric toothbrush with sonic bristle technology, like a Sonicare. These toothbrushes are much more effective at removing plaque compared to manual ones. Additionally, many ultrasonic toothbrushes come with timers to ensure you brush for the recommended two minutes.

8. Replace Your Toothbrush Regularly

Regularly replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed or if you have been sick. A worn-out toothbrush is less effective at cleaning your teeth and may carry more bacteria.

9. Cut Back on Sugar

Make this your year to cut back on sugary foods, candies, and beverages. Sugar feeds the bacteria in the mouth that make up plaque, and when these bacteria eat sugar, they produce acids that destroy tooth enamel. This results in cavities and tooth decay, and can ultimately contribute to tooth loss. To avoid this, opt for healthier snacks and beverages and be mindful of hidden sugars in processed foods. Unfortunately, our American diet has a lot of hidden sugar!

10. Eat a Diet That Includes Foods That Are Good for Your Teeth

Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for strong teeth and bones. Include foods like dairy products, leafy greens, nuts, and lean proteins to promote overall oral health. Most importantly, avoid excessive acidic foods that can erode enamel. Your teeth only have so much enamel, which needs to last a lifetime!

Remember Your Oral Health in Your New Years’ Resolutions!  Eggert Family Dentistry Can Help!

With all the connections between oral health to overall health, set your resolutions to remember your teeth and gums. Invest your time with regular home care, good nutrition, as well as regular recare visits with Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert at Eggert Family Dentistry. Call us at 651.482.8412 to schedule your next appointment. We can’t wait to see you soon!

The World of Online Reviews: A Reflection on Feedback We’ve Had at Eggert Family Dentistry

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, we take pride in the care and service we provide to our patients. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the numerous five-star Google reviews we’ve received, highlighting the positive experiences shared by many in our community. However, like any small business, we also encounter the occasional one-star review, and it’s important to address the dynamics surrounding online feedback.

While five-star reviews serve as a testament to the dedication of our team and the quality of care we offer, one-star reviews present a different narrative. We understand that not every experience meets expectations, and we value constructive feedback to help us improve. However, it’s disheartening when some negative reviews stem from misunderstandings, frustrations with scheduling, or insurance issues. Healthcare is a unique industry in which we are expected to support our patients and their insurance policies, help our patients understand and navigate these vastly different policies, as well as wait weeks for payment from this third-party payer system. We can always empathize with how difficult your insurance company may be for you, however, we will never be able to “make your insurance pay” and this is something anyone who wishes to use an insurance policy has to understand.

We believe that Google reviews should be a platform for constructive dialogue and genuine feedback. However, it’s challenging when low ratings come from individuals we haven’t had the opportunity to build a relationship with or from anonymous sources. Despite our best efforts to accommodate patients, in all the instances of our one-star reviews, these grievances were just aired online rather than communicated directly to Dr. Jeff or Dr. Elizabeth. In our opinion, this would have been much more constructive and appropriate.

Running a small business, especially in the healthcare sector, comes with its unique set of challenges. Recruiting and retaining exceptional team members is paramount to our success, and we stand by our team members when they are faced with disrespectful behavior. It’s disheartening to witness the increase in instances where individuals choose to be unreasonable or rude, particularly toward our hardworking team members.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to businesses worldwide, amplifying stress and uncertainty. Despite hopes for a return to normalcy, the strain on small, local, and privately-owned businesses persists. As we navigate these turbulent times, we rely on the support of our community more than ever.

We extend our gratitude to our loyal patients who have entrusted us with their dental care. Your positive experiences and kind words resonate far beyond online reviews, shaping the fabric of our practice and reinforcing our commitment to excellence. We invite you to share your five-star stories and experiences with the world, helping us amplify the voices of those who value our dedication to exceptional dental care. Leave Your 5-Star Review >>

At Eggert Family Dentistry, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide compassionate, high-quality dental care to our community. As we look ahead, we’re grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve you and eager to continue building meaningful relationships for years to come. Thank you for your unwavering support.

The Journey to My Fully Functional Smile – Gary’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

Gary was a long-time Dr. Furey patient who transitioned care to Dr. Elizabeth in 2017.  At that time, Gary had been talking to Dr. Furey about the need to restore many of his teeth.  With Dr. Furey, Gary completed orthodontics as the first phase of his treatment plan.

Gary wanted a better smile and wanted to repair a lot of the worn edges that had occurred because his teeth had been in a non-ideal position for so long.  Dr. Elizabeth wanted to help Gary improve his esthetics, but she was also concerned about how his teeth functioned.  With the worn edges, teeth still weren’t hitting ideally.

Dr. Elizabeth brought Gary through the Records Process in order to determine how his bite was currently functioning.  She used models, photos, and x-rays of Gary’s teeth along with our thorough muscle and joint evaluation results to present Gary with the current status of his teeth, gums, and the function of his jaw and muscles.  The details of the records process revealed that Gary still didn’t have a consistent bite after his orthodontics due to muscle involvement and worn teeth.  It was recommended to undergo full-time Splint Therapy with an anterior deprogrammer because if we restored his teeth and his bite wasn’t consistent, we would be setting Gary up for failure.

What was recommended?

Gary agreed to the Splint Therapy.  We also explored Gary’s sleep pattern during this phase and found that he should consider working with a doctor because testing we did in our office indicated he may have sleep apnea.  Sleep apnea can be a major cause of tooth wear.  The Splint Therapy helped Gary’s muscles relax so we could build a bite to a consistent position.  Gary no longer had neck aches after using his anterior deprogrammer.  The next step was to plan which teeth we needed to restore to build his bite back and which teeth needed to only be adjusted with equilibration.

Gary had 17 teeth where restorations were recommended due to decay, fracture, wear, or in order to put his bite back together.

What did he want?

Gary’s goals were to have straight, white, and fully functional teeth while mitigating future issues.  He also really didn’t want his teeth to look fake.  Gary wanted to try to phase his treatment as much as possible because he wasn’t sure he could commit to 17 teeth all at the same time.

What was involved?

Even though Gary was phasing his treatment, Dr. Elizabeth completed a wax-up of all restorations recommended for Gary so that we had a “blue print” of the final outcome.  Gary wanted whiter teeth and because not all teeth were going to be restored, he also underwent the Zoom bleaching treatment.  After bleaching, Gary completed restorations for his front upper and lower teeth, but it wasn’t until over 2 years later that he finished the back teeth.  He noticed that his bite felt much better after all teeth were restored.

What does Gary think?

Once the restorations and bleaching were all completed, we asked Gary what he thought about the procedures.  “It would be nice to feel my bite from before in order to compare, but it feels really good and I am very pleased.  I love that nothing looks worn down anymore.”  Gary noted that if he had a friend needing the same type of treatment, he would tell them to “definitely do it!!  It is a journey, but well worth it!”

Congratulations on your amazing results Gary and thank you for putting your trust in us!  We were delighted to help you through this journey and look forward to working with you and your family for many years to come!

Treatment Options for a Full Mouth Reconstruction

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

If you’re experiencing constant dental pain, have frequent dental visits to address problems, or simply have multiple cracked, broken, missing, or badly worn teeth, it might be time to consider a full mouth reconstruction. 

A full mouth reconstruction is a comprehensive dental treatment that involves restoring or replacing all of the teeth in a patient’s mouth. This process usually includes a combination of restorative, cosmetic, and orthodontic or surgical procedures. Many of our patients here at Eggert Family Dentistry report feeling transformed when the treatment process is finished! This process, while it can be long and involved, provides our patients with an attractive smile and a healthy mouth, free of pain or discomfort!

Who Needs a Full Mouth Reconstruction?

A full mouth reconstruction may be needed for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Severe tooth decay
  • Significant occlusal (bite) issues
  • Advanced gum disease
  • Trauma to the teeth and jaw
  • Congenital defects that affect the structure and function of the teeth and jaw 
  • Long-term chronic illness 
  • Oral cancer or cancer treatment

Because the reasons for full mouth reconstruction vary so widely, so too do the treatment options. A combination of treatments is usually required for a holistic and comprehensive treatment plan that suits each patient’s unique needs.

Treatment Options for Full Mouth Reconstruction

We offer a variety of effective treatment options for a full mouth reconstruction, including orthodontic treatment with Invisalign, dental implant coordination with our preferred oral surgeons, prosthetic implant options, and dental restorations like crowns or veneers. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert will work closely with you to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.

Orthodontic Treatment: Your occlusion, or how your teeth contact, must be addressed before we perform additional restorative procedures. Orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners like Invisalign, can be used to straighten crooked or misaligned teeth. Orthodontic treatments will improve your bite and the symmetry of your smile.

Dental Implants: Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth. They consist of titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone and provide a stable foundation for a replacement tooth, bridge, or even denture. Dental implants offer a permanent solution for missing teeth and can improve the appearance, function, and overall health of the mouth.

Dental Restorations: Dental restorations like Dental crowns or veneers are used to restore damaged or decayed teeth. They are custom-made to fit over the affected tooth and are designed to look and function like a natural tooth. Crowns and veneers can improve the strength and durability of a tooth and can also improve the appearance of a patient’s smile.

What to Expect From Eggert Family Dentistry

Here’s what you can expect when receiving a full mouth reconstruction at Eggert Family Dentistry.

  • Evaluation: You will come in for a consultation with Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert, during which we’ll conduct a detailed evaluation of your muscles, jaws, and teeth. This is also where we’ll talk about any health considerations you have, as well as your esthetic goals.
  • Determining a treatment plan: Based on all of the above considerations, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert will work with you to determine a treatment plan that best suits your needs. We’ll answer any questions you may have so that you receive the perfect personalized solution. 
  • Treatment: This treatment is a long-term project involving multiple visits, but we will be happy to walk you through every aspect of your treatment plan, so you have a clear idea of the timeline. We will also help you work with our preferred dental specialists if needed like an oral surgeon or orthodontist. Depending on which treatments you need, the full mouth reconstruction process can take anywhere from 6 months to two years. 

Let’s Give You the Smile You’ve Been Dreaming Of 

Eggert Family Dentistry is a highly respected dental practice that offers comprehensive full mouth reconstruction services. Dr. Jeff Eggert and Elizabeth Eggert and their team use state-of-the-art technology and techniques to help their patients achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile. If you are in need of a full mouth reconstruction, Eggert Family Dentistry is here for you. Contact us today or give us a call at 651.482.8412 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you achieve a healthy, confident smile!

Rejuvenate Your Smile with Veneers! – KE’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

How did this start?

KE (patient prefers initials only) came to us as a new patient late in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.  She had some existing restorations and implants.  She mentioned at her first appointment, that she would eventually like new veneers, but she had her current set done over 30 years ago and did like them so she was nervous to proceed.  After a few more visits at the practice, it was evident that her veneers were starting to decay and when one fractured in half, she knew it was time to start the process to get new veneers.  KE also believed that her veneers were “very old and wearing out.”  She also questioned whether or not she could do something about her lower right canine, reporting “I just have never liked that tooth, what’s wrong with it?”  KE went through the records process to determine the best restorative options for her concerns.

What did she want?

KE wanted to replace her existing veneers on her front teeth and be sure that the gum line would not show any darkness as she had noticed that problem on a few friends recently.  She wanted her smile brighter and refreshed.  Dr. Elizabeth took all of KE’s concerns into consideration during the records process and incorporated that into her recommendations. 

KE mostly wanted her new veneers to look very similar to her existing, but “a little brighter.”  She didn’t want to do anything to address her bite, which did show some signs of disharmony, so in order to lessen the risk of fracture for her new veneers, KE agreed that changing the tooth shape slightly would be ok.

What was involved?

During the treatment presentation, Dr. Elizabeth discussed her findings with KE and presented a customized treatment plan based on the information gathered with KE’s records process.  Dr. Elizabeth recommended that KE start her treatment with splint therapy to confirm a consistent jaw position and muscle comfort before completing new restorations.  KE wasn’t interested in this and was willing to accept the risks in moving forward with treatment.

It was decided KE would get 6 new porcelain veneers to replace her current veneers on her upper front teeth.  KE also thought she might want to replace the crown on her lower right canine.  A lab wax-up was completed to obtain a blue print for the restorations and a mock-up was done in KE’s mouth so she could “preview” the results.  She was excited to move forward!  

Before replacing the veneers, KE underwent the Zoom in-office bleaching procedure since she wanted to brighten her teeth.  Zoom helped to brighten her lower front teeth so much that the crown on her lower right canine wasn’t as noticeable and KE elected not to replace that crown at this time.  

What does she think?

KE said that she feels the entire process went on “without a hitch” and that Dr. Elizabeth did a great job preparing her for what to expect.  KE said,

“I am relieved and pleased with the results, and I can be pretty picky!”  “I would highly recommend the treatment and the whole crew, it was very professionally done and very effective as well.” 

Thank you for putting your trust in us KE!  It is a pleasure serving you at Eggert Family Dentistry!

12 Days of Christmas, Eggert Family Dentistry Style!

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Maintain healthy teeth and enjoy a little holiday fun with the 12 days of Christmas, Eggert Family Dentistry style! (We dare you not to hum along!)

The 12 Days of Eggert Family Dentistry Christmas

On the 1st day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…1 Records Process for a healthier mouth in 2023!

On the 2nd day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…2 recare visits for healthy teeth. (Here’s what you can expect at your next recare visit!)

On the 3rd day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…3 fillings for my cavities. (Did you know there are different types of dental fillings? Learn all about them!)

On the 4th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…4 sealants to prevent my kiddos’ cavities. (Learn how to spot and prevent cavities and keep your kids’ mouths healthy!)

On the 5th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…5 ways to improve my smile. (So I can show off those pearly whites!)

On the 6th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…6 Seattle Protocol Steps to help me sleep. (This gradual, gentle, and reversible process helps us identify solutions for our patients with airway issues.)

On the 7th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…7 steps to whiter teeth (with the Zoom whitening system!)

On the 8th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…8 Invisalign trays to straighten my teeth. (Enough for the first four months of my Invisalign treatment!)

On the 9th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…9 new toothbrushes for healthy teeth. (Are you changing your toothbrush every 3-4 months? If not, you should be!)

On the 10th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…10 experienced team members! (Our team works together to bring you the best dental care possible. We love our patients!)

On the 11th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…11 (plus more) tips for healthier, brighter and whiter teeth this holiday season. (Our blog is full of some great oral health tips and other resources. Check them out here.)

On the 12th day of Christmas Eggert Family Dentistry gave to me…12 (and more!) Eggert Comforts to ease dental phobias. (If you’re afraid of the dentist, you’re not alone! We’ll help make you as comfortable as possible.)

Happy Holidays from Eggert Family Dentistry!

From all of us at Eggert Family Dentistry, we wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a wonderful 2023! And as you look toward the year ahead, there’s no time like the present to schedule your recare visits! Contact us to schedule your next visit with Dr. Elizabet Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert today.

Teeth Bleaching vs. Veneers

By: Dr. Elizabeth Egger

If you’re a coffee-lover or a wine connoisseur, you’ve probably considered a couple teeth-whitening solutions before. In fact, there are so many foods and drinks that can stain our teeth, you’d be hard pressed to find a person who wasn’t interested in making their smile whiter and brighter! 

If at-home treatments like whitening toothpastes and whitening strips aren’t giving you the results you’re looking for, you might want to consider an in-office whitening treatment. When it comes to choosing between bleaching your teeth and having veneers made, however, there’s a lot to consider. The option that’s best for you is usually based on your level of staining, your budget, and your tooth sensitivity. Here’s a little about the professional options we offer: 

Opalescence Go! 

Pros: 

  • Can take it home with you from your dental appointment 
  • Effective 
  • Inexpensive 
  • Non-invasive 

 Cons: 

  • Takes about 10 days at home
  • More sensitivity than other professional options 
  • Not effective on restorations
  • Won’t remove deep stains
  • More “gooey” to use

Zoom! Whitening 

Pros: 

  • Fast, takes 2 hours in-office 
  • Effective (8 shades whiter)
  • Less expensive than Kor 
  • Non-invasive 

Cons: 

  • Possibly more sensitivity than Kor 
  • Not effective on restorations (bonding, veneers)
  • Won’t remove deep stains

The Zoom! bleaching process is very simple. Dr. Elizabeth or Dr. Jeff’s team will first isolate your teeth, then apply peroxide gel to your teeth. A low heat light is placed close to your teeth that activates the whitening gel. You will undergo up to four 15-minute cycles during your session.

Kör Whitening 

Pros: 

  • Extremely effective (up to 16 shades whiter)
  • Non-invasive
  • Removes even tetracycline staining
  • Least amount of sensitivity 

Cons: 

  • About double the cost of Zoom!  
  • Not effective on restorations (bonding, veneers)
  • Time-consuming – sometimes requires 4 in-office sessions and time at home 

The Kör treatment was developed by Dr. Rod Kurthy in response to the lack of consistency in results of traditional whitening products, and complaints of sensitivity from patients post-treatment. This treatment is extremely effective, bleaching some patients’ teeth up to 16 shades whiter! It’s also the least sensitive option due to the science Dr. Kurthy used to develop his product, making it the perfect option for people with extremely sensitive teeth. 

The Kör treatment involves both at-home and in-office processes. After an impression appointment and two weeks prior to your in-office appointment, Dr. Jeff or Dr. Elizabeth will give you an at-home kit that includes a dental tray and a special gel. This tray must be worn overnight, every night before your appointment. The at-home treatment allows for longer exposure to the gel, resulting in even whiter teeth.

When you come in for your appointment two weeks later, Dr. Elizabeth or Dr. Jeff’s team will apply a breathing gel to your teeth to finish the treatment. Sometimes a second in-office appointment is also needed, depending on the desired results. 

Veneers as a Whitening Solution

Pros: 

  • Extremely effective (you may choose your shade of white)
  • Completely masks all staining
  • Long-term results 

Cons: 

  • More costly 
  • Alters tooth structure 
  • Some tooth sensitivity 
  • Time-consuming 

Teeth bleaching works very well for lighter stains caused by food and drink. For more stubborn staining that can’t be removed by the bleaching process, you may consider getting veneers. This is the most involved whitening option of the three listed in this post. 

Veneers are a very thin ceramic shell that covers your existing tooth structure. In placing these new veneers on your teeth, you can fix the look of issues such as staining, cracked teeth, spaces, misaligned teeth, chipped teeth, and more. 

The process of getting veneers involves at least two to three visits to Eggert Family Dentistry. During the first visit, we will discuss the shape and look of your veneers and develop a plan together. On the second visit, we will prepare your teeth for the placement of the veneers by removing a thin layer of enamel. We will also take an impression of your teeth, and provide you with a beautiful temporary solution to cover your teeth over the next few weeks. Your final visit will take place two to three weeks later, during which Dr. Elizabeth Eggert or Dr. Jeff Eggert will place your brand-new veneers.

Let Eggert Family Dentistry Brighten Your Smile!

If you’re unsatisfied with the results of over-the-counter whitening treatments, call Eggert Family Dentistry at 651.482.8412 to discuss potential in-office whitening solutions and schedule an appointment. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert will be able to help you decide which option is right for you. We look forward to helping you achieve the smile you’ve been dreaming of! 

Myobrace Infant Trainer – Owen’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Where did Owen start?

Owen came to us for his first dental visit at 2 years old and we noticed that he seemed to have some issues breathing through his nose.  His mom also reported that he sucked on his pointer finger to fall asleep.  Owen would also suck on his finger during the day if he was tired.  Mom and dad tried to help him stop, but it wasn’t going well.  

After giving the family some more time to continue to try traditional methods to help Owen stop sucking his finger, Dr. Elizabeth talked with the family at Owen’s next visit and let them know that Owen may benefit from seeing an ENT to evaluate and intervene for his airway.  She also discussed the opportunity to start therapy with the Myobrace Infant Trainer to help him with oral and facial development.  Due to his finger sucking habit, he was starting to develop a narrow palate and his lower jaw growth was impinged.

What was involved?

Owen’s parents were ready to start Myobrace therapy with Owen.  The goals for the treatment were for Owen to wear the appliance 2 or more hours each day and all night.  The Myobrace appliance has a “tongue tag” to help train the tongue to go to the correct position up against the palate.  Owen was to work to keep his tongue touching the tongue tag.  Owen was also supposed to work on keeping his lips closed and breathing through his nose.

The appliance is great for thumb or digit suckers because it gives them something in their mouth and helps open their airway.  This is often why thumb and digit suckers continue sucking after the natural infant instinct to suckle has surpassed 6-12 months – because it gives them support for their airway.

Owen did a nice job working with his appliance.  Instead of putting his finger in his mouth, he instead put his appliance in.  He was able to stop the finger sucking habit.  His mom still wondered about his breathing, however, since he was snoring and struggled to keep his lips closed with his appliance out of his mouth.

Dr. Elizabeth referred Owen to Dr. Rosario, a local ENT, and he underwent procedures to remove his tonsils and adenoids as well as reduce some of the inflammatory tissue in his nose.  After these procedures, Owen slept better, stopped snoring, and had a lot more energy during the daytime.

What do Owen and his family think?

Owen’s Myobrace Infant Trainer was very helpful at helping him stop sucking his finger.  Owen may benefit from the Myobrace J-series which can help with more jaw growth and development.  For now, he is working to keep his tongue in the right spot, his lips closed, and all breaths through his nose.

Owen’s mom reports they are happy they underwent these therapies with Owen.  The process was easy and only took about 3 months before he stopped sucking his finger.  They are happy to see his improved growth and development.  They would strongly recommend anyone where this therapy is recommended to “give it a try!”

myobrace treatment