Eggert Family Dentistry Blog

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.

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!

Mouthguards: Simple and Effective at Preventing Dental Injuries from Sports

By; Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

In the realm of sports, protecting yourself from injury is paramount to ensuring both performance and longevity in the game. However, one aspect often overlooked is the protection of dental health amidst the rigorous physical activities involved. Dental injuries resulting from sports trauma can be painful, costly to treat, and sometimes even irreversible. Fortunately, there’s a simple yet highly effective solution: mouthguards.

Mouthguards serve as essential protective gear, significantly reducing the risk of dental injuries during sports activities. These flexible devices act as a cushion, absorbing and dispersing the force of impact that could otherwise damage teeth, gums, lips, and even jaws. While they may seem like a small investment, their benefits are immense, potentially saving you and your family members from significant pain, discomfort, and costly dental procedures.

Types of Mouthguards

There are two main types of mouthguards: over-the-counter (OTC) and custom-fit. OTC mouthguards are readily available in sporting goods stores and pharmacies. They offer basic protection and are relatively affordable. However, they may not provide the best fit, leading to reduced comfort and efficacy. On the other hand, custom-fit mouthguards are crafted by dental professionals at Eggert Family Dentistry to precisely match your dental structure, offering superior comfort, retention, and protection.

Which Sports Should Use a Mouthguard?

Various sports pose risks of dental trauma, making mouthguards indispensable across a wide spectrum of athletic activities. While contact sports like football, hockey, and boxing are commonly associated with dental injuries and are often sports where use of mouthguards is mandated, other sports such as basketball, soccer, lacrosse, baseball, and even gymnastics can also present risks due to falls, collisions, or contact with equipment.

Interestingly, some professional athletes have recognized the importance of dental protection and incorporated mouthguards into their gear, even in sports where its usage isn’t typical. For instance, basketball icon LeBron James is often seen wearing a mouthguard during games, prioritizing his dental safety despite basketball not being traditionally associated with mouthguard use. Similarly, tennis superstar Serena Williams has been spotted wearing a mouthguard during matches, demonstrating a proactive approach to dental injury prevention.

Safeguarding dental health during sports activities is crucial for athletes of all levels. Mouthguards stand as a simple yet effective measure to prevent dental injuries, offering valuable protection against trauma. While both over-the-counter and custom-fit options are available, the latter provides superior comfort and performance. Regardless of the sport, incorporating a mouthguard into your gear can help ensure not only physical safety but also long-term dental wellness. As demonstrated by professional athletes who prioritize their dental health, investing in preventive measures like mouthguards is a decision that pays off in the long run, preserving smiles and enhancing performance on the field, court, or ring.

Call Us Today to Prevent Sports Injuries with a Mouthguard!

Be sure to talk with Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert at Eggert Family Dentistry about whether a custom fit athletic mouthguard is right for you! Call us at 651-482-8412 to set up your consultation appointment.

Dental Emergencies from School Sports & How to Handle Them

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

With the school year in full swing, school sports have no doubt become an important aspect of many families’ lives. For all of us here at Eggert Family Dentistry, this time of year means we see an uptick in dental injuries and dental emergencies.

From football, to hockey, to baseball, dental injuries are extremely common for high school and middle school athletes. As a parent, it’s important to know how to deal with any dental emergencies in the event that a foul ball (or puck) causes an accident. Let’s take a look at the most common dental emergencies that arise out of school sports, and how to handle them.

The Most Common Dental Emergencies in School Sports

1. Tooth Fractures/Breaks: Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth are very common dental injuries experienced during impact sports. A direct blow to the face or a collision (whether it’s with equipment, a wall, the floor, or another person) can easily cause tooth fractures. While minor chipping on teeth doesn’t require immediate dental treatment, serious fractures can be painful and should be evaluated as soon as possible.

What To Do: Rinse out the mouth with water and hang onto those fractured pieces of tooth if possible. You can place the pieces of the tooth in water or milk to preserve them until you see us at Eggert Family Dentistry. Make an appointment as soon as possible to go over treatment options.

2. Avulsed (Knocked Out) Teeth: The same kind of impact that can cause tooth fractures and breaks can also cause a more serious problem: a knocked-out tooth. This is a very serious dental injury that requires immediate treatment.

What To Do: Hold the tooth by the crown (not the root) and rinse the whole tooth clean with water. If the tooth can be reinserted into the gum socket, do so. If not, put the tooth in a glass of water or milk to preserve the tooth until you can see Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert. Be sure to call our emergency line (Dr. Elizabeth’s cell number) right away and leave a detailed message. Call our office at 651-482-8412 to get the number for the emergency line.

3. Tooth Intrusion: Sometimes the problem isn’t that the tooth is knocked out of its place in the mouth, but that it’s pushed further into the gums and jawbone, which is called tooth intrusion. This kind of dental injury requires immediate dental attention to avoid any further complications.

What To Do: Don’t try to move the tooth on your own. Call Eggert Family Dentistry’s emergency line to make an emergency dental appointment as soon as you can, and in the meantime don’t chew at all (meaning no solid foods), or else you might make the intrusion worse.

4. Soft-Tissue Injuries: When your mouth is injured, it’s not just your teeth you have to worry about: your lips, cheeks, and tongue are at risk as well. Soft-tissue injuries include cuts, tears, or even puncture wounds that affect any part of your mouth apart from your teeth. These injuries can range from being mild and able to heal on their own, to serious and needing immediate attention.

What To Do: Clean the injured area by rinsing out the mouth with warm salt water. Apply a cold compress to minimize swelling and if the gums are cut, you can insert a cotton ball or cotton gauze to help the blood clot. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, call Eggert Family Dentistry for advice.

5. Jaw Fractures: Blunt force trauma to the face can result in a break or a fracture in the jawbone. This is a very serious injury that can be very painful, and requires immediate medical and dental attention.

What To Do: Using an elastic ACE bandage wrap or a large cloth (like a clean dish towel), secure the jaw lightly by wrapping around the top of the head and under the chin. Call Eggert Family Dentistry’s emergency line for advice, but likely you will need to be seen at Hennepin Country Medical Center, the local Level I trauma center and where they will always have an oral surgeon on call. Not all emergency rooms will be a good choice in this situation.

6. Orthodontic Emergencies: If a student athlete has any orthodontic gear in their mouth during a sports injury, such as braces, wires, or retainers, there may be broken wires or brackets that need to be fixed. While these issues usually don’t require immediate dental attention, they do need to be fixed as soon as possible in order to keep the teeth from shifting.

What To Do: Make an appointment with your orthodontist or Eggert Family Dentistry to have the orthodontic gear fixed as soon as you can. In the meantime, if there are any broken wires that are irritating the mouth, you can cover them with orthodontic wax.

7. TMJ Injuries: The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can be injured as a result of a sports injury as well. This type of injury usually involves jaw stiffness, tightness, pain, or popping during movement. Depending on the amount of pain and difficulty of movement involved, this injury can range from mild to severe.

What To Do: Administer a cold compress to alleviate swelling and start taking an anti-inflammatory, over-the-counter medication, like ibuprofen. If things don’t seem back to normal after a couple of days, call for an appointment with Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert. It is helpful to examine the area of injury and determine how severe the injury is and what treatments are needed.

Preventative Measures to Help Avoid Dental Emergencies

As the saying goes, prevention is better than a cure! Or in this case, emergency treatment. Here are a few ways you can help your child prevent dental injuries from happening on game day.

Mouthguard: A mouthguard is one of the most effective ways to avoid a dental injury when playing sports. It is custom-fitted for your teeth and acts as a protective barrier, absorbing impact and preventing any major damage from occurring. Athletes should use mouthguards consistently during practices and games to safeguard their smiles.

Helmet/Face Shield: Depending on the type of sport being played, athletes may have the option to wear a helmet or face shield. In these cases, the athlete should always play it safe and wear their proper gear in order to protect their teeth (and the rest of their heads/bodies!).

Good Oral Hygiene: Which tooth is less likely to be knocked out or broken during a sports injury: a healthy tooth sitting in pink gums, or a decayed tooth sitting in gums that are inflamed or receding? If you guessed the healthy tooth, you’d be correct. One of the best ways to protect your or your child’s teeth is to make tomaintain proper oral hygiene habits to keep the teeth and gums healthy.

Recare Visits: A big part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy is staying on a regular schedule of recare visits with Eggert Family Dentistry, so we can monitor the health of your teeth and address any problems early on.

Dental Emergency? Contact Us!

If anyone in your family experiences a traumatic dental emergency, Eggert Family Dentistry is here to help! Call us immediately and schedule an emergency dental appointment with us. We’ll provide expedited professional care to your family to help repair any dental issues. In no time, you’ll be back on the field with a healthy smile! Call us today at 651.482.8412.

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!

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.

A New Year’s Smile with Invisalign and Bonding – Ted’s Story

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Where did this start?

Ted has been a loyal patient of Eggert Family Dentistry and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert for over 13 years. Ted was having an issue with chipping of his front teeth. Over the years the enamel of his front teeth started to get thinner. This was mostly because of the tooth positions of his lower front teeth. Dr. Elizabeth talked with Ted about orthodontic movements to help increase the longevity of any future restorations, but Ted wasn’t ready to do anything until he additionally bumped his front tooth and because of the weak enamel, a significant chip occurred. Ted still wasn’t ready for orthodontics and asked Dr. Elizabeth to start by simply fixing the tooth with composite.

Fast forward nearly 2 years and Ted started to notice the enamel thinning again with his front teeth. He understood that the lower front tooth positions put more strain on his edges and he was ready to talk about Invisalign options for orthodontic tooth movement.

What was involved?

Dr. Elizabeth gathered the records needed for Invisalign orthodontic treatment. She sent impressions, photos, and x-rays of Ted’s teeth to Invisalign where they created a 3D simulation, called a clincheck, to show how his teeth could move with Invisalign treatment. Ted was very happy with the simulation, which showed a significant improvement to his crowding, especially on the lower front teeth and he decided to move forward with Invisalign.

Ted’s case was expected to consist of 19 aligners that he would wear for one to two weeks at a time for 9-12 months. As part of Ted’s Invisalign treatment, Dr. Elizabeth included “bite ramps” on his aligners because he clenches heavily on his teeth. Bite ramps prevent patients from being able to bite down completely and clench. They help give the muscles a “stop” point and remind the muscles to stay in a more relaxed position. Ted was consistent in wearing his aligners as instructed.

After his Invisalign treatment was complete, Dr. Elizabeth made minor alterations to the biting surface of some of Ted’s teeth to remove interferences and even out his bite. This process is called equilibration and will help prevent further wear on Ted’s new smile. Once the equilibration was complete and Ted completed some whitening with Opalescence whitening solution at home, Ted was ready to strengthen his front teeth with composite bonding. Dr. Elizabeth added resin plastic filling material to his central incisors. Because his teeth are now in a better position, it was even possible to add a little length to Ted’s teeth, giving him a more youthful smile.

What does Ted think?

Ted said “I wanted my teeth fixed! I was more curious than anything as I read about orthodontic options online. I am happy I chose to do Invisalign with Dr. Elizabeth, but I wasn’t sure how long it would take.” Ted was really happy with the results and said that it was not nearly as bad as he had initially anticipated. He was concerned about not being able to eat and drink with the aligners in, but after living with them awhile, he realized it wasn’t as bad over the course of the year as he thought it would be. “They still are a bit inconvenient” but “well worth it.” When asked what he would say if he were talking to someone considering getting this type of treatment done, Ted noted he would tell them it’s “Absolutely worth it!” Ted, thank you for putting your trust in us to complete your care! We love your new bright smile and are happy that with the tooth movements, the results will be much more stable over the long-haul! Congratulations!

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.

Take Charge of Your Dental Health in 2024!

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to focus more on your dental health? If not, it’s never too late to make it a priority! If you focus on keeping your teeth and gums healthy, your overall well-being (and your wallet) will thank you.

So how can you improve your dental health this year? Well, a healthy smile goes beyond just brushing and flossing — it also involves regular dental check-ups and “recare” visits. Let’s take a look at why improving your dental health should be high on your list, various ways you can improve your oral health, and some examples of easy dental resolutions you can follow in 2024.

The Link Between Dental Health and Overall Health

As the new year unfolds, many of us make resolutions to lead healthier lives, the classic resolution being to hit the gym. And while many think exercise and nutrition are the end-all-be-all of health, the truth is that our body’s wellbeing is a result of many interconnected systems, each affecting the other. Your dental health, for example, can impact various aspects of your overall health, including cardiovascular health, respiratory health, and even mental health.

Oral health’s impact on the heart: Study after study has shown that people who have poor oral health (such as gum disease or tooth loss) have higher rates of cardiovascular problems such as heart attack or stroke than people with good oral health. Researchers have proposed many theories as to why this connection exists, including bacteria from the mouth traveling through blood vessels, inflammation causing an immune response, or the correlating factor of smoking cigarettes. Whatever the cause, the relationship between oral health and cardiovascular health has been demonstrated many times over.

Oral health’s impact on the lungs: According to research, oral health directly impacts incidences and outcomes of lung diseases, such as pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In a healthy person, the lungs are usually able to fight off any bacteria that would accumulate in the mouth and travel through the respiratory system. However, when a person’s lungs are compromised by a pre-existing respiratory condition, the lung’s immune response is weaker. This makes it easier for bacteria that accumulates in an unclean mouth to travel to the lungs and cause infections.

Oral health’s impact on mental health: Studies since the COVID 19 pandemic have shown that mental health and oral health are correlated, with associations demonstrated between mental health problems and tooth loss, periodontal disease, and tooth decay. Dental decay and tooth loss can lead to more frequent pain, which often increases social isolation, and feelings of low self-esteem. All of this results in a lower quality of life, which often leads to poorer mental health.

Poor oral hygiene can have a domino effect on multiple systems of the body. By resolving to improve your dental health in 2024, you’re not just preserving your smile – you’re protecting the wellbeing of your entire body.

The Importance of Regular Recare Visits

Most people understand that brushing twice and flossing once daily are the pinnacles of good oral health. However, it’s equally important to schedule regular dental appointments, also known as recare visits — it is important to realize that these visits are much more than “just a cleaning.” It is essential to be committed to them and never skip out! When scheduled regularly, these appointments play a key part in preventing and detecting dental problems early on.

When you schedule a recare appointment with Eggert Family Dentistry, Dr. Jeff Eggert or Dr. Elizabeth Eggert can make sure that small problems like gingivitis and cavities don’t escalate into more significant (and expensive) issues, such as periodontal disease and tooth loss. When you come in for your appointment, not only will you get a professional teeth cleaning, but you’ll also receive a thorough check-up to ensure the health of your mouth and the quality of any dental restorations/devices such as fillings, crowns, dentures, or veneers.

Questions? Call Eggert Family Dentistry

Your smile is an essential part of your overall health, and when you prioritize your dental health, you’re investing in a lifetime of well-being. Call Eggert Family Dentistry at 651.482.8412 to schedule your recare appointment today or to ask any questions you have about dental health. Make 2024 the year you take charge of the health of your smile – your future self will thank you!

Axe Throwing: From Ancient Tool to Modern Recreation

By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert

Axe throwing, an activity with roots deep in human history, has evolved from a practical tool for survival and warfare into a popular and engaging recreational pastime. The origins of axe throwing can be traced back to ancient civilizations where axes were essential for hunting, woodworking, and, when necessary, as weapons in battle.

Historical Significance: Axes as Tools and Weapons

In ancient times, various cultures utilized axes for a multitude of purposes. The Vikings, for example, are often associated with both the craftsmanship of axes for daily tasks and their use as formidable weapons. Similarly, Native American tribes employed tomahawks, a type of light axe, for hunting and ceremonial purposes.

Throughout history, axes have symbolized strength, utility, and craftsmanship, transcending their practical applications. As societies progressed, axes became less vital for survival, transforming into symbols of craftsmanship and resourcefulness.

The Rise of Axe Throwing as a Recreational Activity

The transition of axe throwing from a utilitarian tool to a recreational activity can be attributed to various factors. One of the key elements is the desire for unique and thrilling experiences. As society advanced, people sought unconventional ways to unwind and connect with others, fostering a demand for activities that blended skill, competition, and social interaction.

In recent years, axe throwing has experienced a resurgence, fueled by the rise of urban recreational venues specializing in this novel sport. These establishments offer a safe and controlled environment for participants to channel their inner lumberjack, honing their skills at hitting a target with a carefully thrown axe.

Why Axe Throwing is Popular Today

Several factors contribute to the current popularity of axe throwing:

Accessible to All Skill Levels: Axe throwing is relatively easy for beginners to pick up, making it an inclusive activity for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Social and Competitive Element: The sport combines elements of both social and competitive activities. Whether enjoying a casual night out with friends or participating in a structured league, axe throwing provides an opportunity for camaraderie and friendly competition.
Stress Relief and Catharsis: The act of throwing an axe can be cathartic, offering a unique way for individuals to release stress and tension. The rhythmic motion of axe throwing provides a satisfying physical and mental release.
Novelty and Trendiness: The novelty of axe throwing, combined with its historical roots, contributes to its trendiness. People are drawn to experiences that stand out from traditional recreational activities.
Safe and Controlled Environment: Modern axe-throwing venues prioritize safety, providing participants with thorough training and safety guidelines. This ensures that individuals can enjoy the activity without unnecessary risks.

The history of axe throwing is a journey from practicality to recreation. Today, it has found a place in the hearts of enthusiasts seeking a unique, social, and thrilling experience, turning what was once a survival skill into a modern pastime that continues to captivate people around the world.