Menu
At Eagan Dental Care, we believe that patient education is an essential aspect of care. It’s important to be well-informed about procedures and general information about oral health. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we hear at our office. Do you have questions that we didn’t address here? Reach out to one of our knowledgeable team members. Contact us online anytime or call our dental office at (651) 452-5511.
Digital x-rays emit much less radiation compared to conventional x-ray machines. At Eagan Dental Care, we take every possible precaution to protect our patients and keep them safe. We will never recommend x-rays unless they are necessary for treatment. Keep in mind that, for optimal oral health, dental x-rays should be taken at least once a year. If we are monitoring a specific problem, we may need to take them more often.
At Eagan Dental Care, you are more than a name on our schedule and more than the next patient waiting to see the dentist. When you make us your dental home, we consider you family. With us, you can count on gentle care, honesty, and a team that is always happy to see you.
Your dentist in Eagan, MN, wants every appointment to be pain-free and comfortable. In fact, we are not happy unless you feel completely relaxed and at ease when under our care.
We Go Beyond General Dentistry in Eagan, MN
Our goal is to make your dentistry one stop whenever possible. For this reason, we offer progressive treatments that you might not always expect at the dental office. We are also here for you in the event of a dental emergency in Eagan.
Choosing Eagan Dental Care
When you choose us, you can count on comfortable dentistry, a caring team, innovative treatments, and the latest technologies. If you want to learn more or are ready to arrange a dental visit, we urge you to contact a friendly dental staff member today.
Our Eagan dental clinic is located at 3324 Promenade Ave, suite 101. We are in the Shoppes at Promenade strip mall—which means excellent parking—and across the way from major stores like:
TargetOld NavyMichaelsOffice MaxPier 1 ImportsHallmarkBarnes & NoblePet SmartYou'll also find plenty of places to grab lunch or dinner near our dental clinic, including Chipotle and Buffalo Wild Wings. Additionally, we are near St. Paul and Minneapolis, MN.
We offer all the treatments and services you’d expect from your local dental office. But we’ve taken it a step further. With us, you’ll enjoy general and preventive dentistry but also advanced services like:
Cosmetic dentistry, including veneersTooth replacement, including implant-supported denturesComfortable dentistry, including dental sedationTMJ therapy for jaw jointsSmoking cessation for a healthier lifeMigraine and sleep therapyAnd we’re happy to offer an in-house plan for patients who don’t have insurance. This plan means discounts on the dentistry you need most. Talk to a team member to learn more.
We’re always happy to welcome new patients into our dental family. If you’re new to the area or it’s time for your next checkup and teeth cleaning, we encourage you to call our friendly dental team today to get started.
Electric toothbrushes are wonderful investments, especially for patients who lack dexterity. Though they are not required, they can supplement your oral healthcare routine and yield excellent results. As always, be sure to choose a product that has been ADA-accepted.
Waterpiks or water flossers are fantastic tools for removing large food particles and debris from underneath bridges, around braces, or other hard-to-reach areas. We encourage our patients to use Waterpik if they find them beneficial. However, you should never replace regular flossing with a Waterpik, as they do not remove biofilm from the teeth surfaces. Therefore, if you purchase a Waterpik, be sure to combine it with regular flossing.
When shopping for any oral health product, be sure to look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This means that the product has been tested to the highest standards and considered safe for use. We recommend choosing non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste. If you are prone to sensitivity, try a toothpaste formulated especially for sensitive teeth.
Good oral hygiene is the first defense against cavity-causing bacteria. However, there are also preventative measures you can take to reduce the risk of decay. Topical fluoride treatments help strengthen tooth enamel and address demineralization. Dental sealants are clear coatings that are applied to the teeth to shield them from bacteria. These treatments significantly reduce the risk of cavities.
The answer to this question is different for every patient. Many individuals have their teeth cleaned every six months. However, if you are predisposed to certain oral health issues, such as decay or gum disease, we may recommend more frequent visits.
Even individuals with impeccable oral hygiene are still not immune to issues like decay and gum disease. Every day, oral bacteria accumulate. Brushing and flossing at home is enough to keep these bacteria at bay for some time. But after a few months, a professional cleaning is necessary to address the issue. Your dental hygienist can remove plaque and tartar in hard-to-reach areas, keeping your bacterial levels healthy.
Yes, your dentist at Eagan Dental Care can repair broken dental bridges in Eagan, MN. Dental bridges are designed to last for decades but are not indestructible. Sometimes, dental bridges can break or become damaged due to natural wear and tear, biting down too hard on a piece of food, or trauma to the mouth.
A dental bridge consists of abutment crowns anchored to healthy neighboring teeth, and the replacement teeth sit in between the crowns to fill in the gap left behind by tooth loss. Once your dentist identifies the problem, they can provide the appropriate repairs or replacements.
One of the reasons why we recommend routine dental exams and cleanings is to keep a watchful eye on your teeth, gums, and restorations. This means we can also check the condition of your dental bridge and crowns to ensure everything feels, looks, and functions as it should.
Dr. Michael Onyekaba is a skilled and experienced dentist who can create, repair, or replace your dental bridge in no time.
Dental Bridges in Eagan, MN
If you need a dental bridge, replacement, or repair, please don’t hesitate to call us! We can help you improve your smile’s health and beauty and ensure you have a comfortable, problem-free grin for many years to come.
We look forward to welcoming you to our dental office in Eagan, MN!
When you think of dental crowns, do you also think of root canals? If so, you're not the only one! After all, the two procedures are often performed at the same time. However, it's possible to get a crown without a root canal, and to get a root canal without a crown.
The Connection Between Dental Crowns and Root Canals
When a tooth becomes infected, it can be very painful. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissue and cause serious health problems. A root canal is a treatment performed to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.
Although root canals are often considered painful, they are actually quite effective at relieving pain and saving teeth. During a root canal, Dr. Michael will first remove the infected tissue. Next, he will clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth. Finally, he will fill the tooth and seal it.
A dental crown (placed by Dr. Michael in our Eagan, MN, dental office) is then positioned over the tooth to protect it from further damage. This dental crown restores the tooth to its original function.
Get Your Smile Back with a Dental Crown
In some cases, it may be possible to place a crown without first having a root canal. While this is typically only an option if the tooth is not badly damaged or decayed and there is no infection.
If you are considering a dental crown, be sure to discuss all of your options with Dr. Michael to ensure that you choose the treatment that is best for you.
A dental crown is a type of restoration that provides 360 degrees of protection for a compromised tooth. We usually recommend a dental crown to repair a tooth when less extensive procedures, like tooth fillings or dental bonding, are insufficient. So, if you have an extensively decayed tooth, a dental crown in Eagan, MN, is an ideal option because:
Your crown is made from porcelain, which is durable, attractive, and won’t irritate metal allergiesWe design your crown to look natural and match your damaged tooth preciselyThe high-quality porcelain ceramic construction resists decay and discolorationWith proper care, your dental crown can last for a decade or longerTooth decay is among the most common causes of tooth damage, and over the years, the tooth cavities that result from it can grow beyond that which can be addressed with a cavity filling. Because our mission is to save your natural teeth wherever possible, a dental crown provides that last layer of defense before tooth extraction.
So when Dr. Michael places a dental crown, he will ensure that your remaining tooth structure can offer a solid foundation. As part of this process, he will remove decayed tissue and reshape your tooth so that your custom crown fits tightly. If we place your crown to finish root canal treatment, our team will also ensure your inner tooth is sealed so that no further decay may occur.
Tooth crowns and dental bridges in Eagan, MN, restore your smile and boost your confidence. Bridges require dental crowns for success, but crowns can work independently in various aspects of dentistry.
Dental crowns fit over treated teeth; treated means smoothed and prepared by your dentist. In most cases, the goal is to restore a tooth at risk for breakage. But, of course, your crown will look like your untreated teeth and blend in easily with your smile.
Besides supporting at-risk teeth, dental crowns can conceal flawed teeth, hiding everything from discoloration to chips and shape issues. A dental crown also acts like a replacement tooth in dental implant technology, and two crowns provide anchoring for a dental bridge.
A dental bridge is up to two restoring teeth situated between dental crowns. Your dentist fixes the bridge by cementing the crowns to healthy teeth. This process means only your dentist can remove your bridge.
If you have a broken tooth or loose crown, it’s essential to arrange a visit with the dentist. Additionally, it’s always best to replace missing teeth to promote improved oral health. To get started, call us today.
There are numerous issues that are considered dental emergencies, but the most common dental emergency we see in our Eagan, MN, dental office is a toothache.
A toothache can be caused by a number of things, including decay, infection, or injury. Not only is it painful, but it can also make it difficult to eat, drink, sleep, or even think.
If you have a toothache, it's important to contact our office as soon as possible. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to help ease the pain: Keep your mouth clean, Avoid eating hard, tough, or sticky foods, Place a cold compress on the affected area (20 minutes, on and off), Consider taking over-the-counter medication (ibuprofen, Tylenol)
Emergency Dentistry in Eagan, MN
If you have a dental emergency, you should seek immediate dental care to prevent further damage to your teeth, gums, or jaw. It's always best to call our office immediately in order to schedule an emergency examination with Dr. Michael. This is what we're here for—you don't have to suffer from pain or dental problems!
Most people associate urgent dental care with an accident or some other type of trauma. Still, several other issues may require emergency dentistry to safeguard oral health and general well-being. The most common characteristics of a dental emergency are that it happens unexpectedly, and the resulting symptoms significantly interfere with your daily life.
The team at Eagan Dental Care is here to help when a dental condition interrupts your life. Our main recommendation in cases where you may need emergency dentistry in Eagan, MN, is for you to call our dental office immediately. Our dental professionals are trained experts in diagnosing dental conditions, and they know the right questions to ask so that we can determine your immediate needs.
Symptoms That Indicate You Need Emergency Dental Care
A toothache is a primary reason people seek out urgent care, but the pain intensity of that toothache is a significant indicator. If your pain has steadily increased and is unresponsive to at-home treatments, then you likely require emergency dentistry.
But pain is not the only symptom of a dental issue that needs attention. Here are several other signs you can watch out for: Gum inflammation, Bright red gums as opposed to the standard pink color, Any sores or bumps on your gums, especially near the sore tooth, General fever, Foul-smelling breath or a sour taste in your mouth.
Most of these symptoms indicate an infection that cannot clear up. And because the nature of the disease is to worsen, we encourage you to call our Eagan dental office right away so we can resolve your condition before it becomes more serious.
Red, tender, or swollen gums are the symptoms of periodontal disease. When detected in the early stages, gum disease can be addressed with cleanings. However, the more advanced the disease, the more likely surgery will be needed to correct the issue. For this reason, routine dental visits are so important.
The quick answer is no. It takes longer than a day to complete a dental implant procedure. The good news is that although it's a multi-step process, your dental implants can last a lifetime. But we'll explain why a dental implant procedure takes more than a day. Interested? Keep reading!
To begin, you will have a consultation with Dr. Michael to decide whether dental implants are right for you.
Then, treatment is completed in phases. Eagan Dental Care will walk you through each stage of the procedure to ensure you are comfortable and satisfied with each step of your treatment, including sedation dentistry services. The steps will look something like this:
1. Your treatment begins with the placement of the titanium dental implants
2. For the implants to fuse successfully into your bone tissue, your jaw and mouth must heal for several months
3. During this important healing time, we adjust your existing dentures so you can feel confident in the meantime (while wearing them with the implants)
4. Once your mouth and jaw have fully healed, we place small connectors (called abutments) on top of your dental implants
5. By using abutments, your new dentures stay secure in your mouth and allow for easy snap-off removal
Implant Dentist in Eagan, MN
People have long sought a way to replace missing teeth for health, practical, and aesthetic purposes. The History of Dentistry shows that people used animal teeth to manufacture dentures as early as 2500 B.C.
So, it's fair to say that dentures have been around for a long time and have come a long way since then. And although dentistry has certainly advanced, dental implants will still take longer than one day to completely heal and integrate.
Additionally, even with these advancements, traditional dentures can be uncomfortable and challenging to keep in place. Fortunately, implant-supported dentures offer a more comfortable and secure option. If you're interested in learning more about different types of dentures or looking for an Eagan, MN implant dentist—we're just a call or click away!
In short, there are a lot of advantages! Dental implants, offered in our Eagan, MN dental office, provide patients with a permanent solution to missing teeth. And while traditional dentures have come a long way, there's nothing quite like dental implants for their longevity and strength. Now let's really get into the advantages:
-No slipping and sliding
-No powders, pastes, or pads - say goodbye to denture adhesives!
-No special cleaners or solutions
-Extremely strong and durable
-Full chewing ability
-Looks and functions like natural teeth
-Prevents adjacent teeth from shifting
-Preserves the natural shape of the face
-Does not cover the roof of your mouth
-Easy to care for – just brush and floss as you would your natural teeth
-Prevents bone loss
-Permanent solution for missing teeth
-Permanently attached – no nighttime removal
-Can last a lifetime with proper care
-More comfortable than dentures
If you are considering dental implants, we encourage you to discuss all the benefits with Dr. Michael to make the best decision for your smile. When you're ready, contact our office for a dental implant consultation. We hope to hear from you soon!
If you feel as though your smile is incomplete and are considering dental implants—please keep reading!
Before diving into the pros and cons, let's cover what dental implants actually are. Dental implants are titanium posts (screws) surgically inserted into the jawbone. The implants fuse with the bone during the healing process, providing a stable foundation for artificial teeth. A dentist will use dental implants to support a single tooth, a bridge, or dentures.
The Pros of Dental Implants
The advantages of dental implants are many. But the main overall benefit is they are a permanent solution to tooth loss.
Dental implants are strong and durable, and they look and feel like natural teeth.
Unlike dentures or bridges, which rest on top of the gums, Dr. Michael surgically inserts the implant into the jawbone. This method provides a more secure fit and helps to prevent bone loss. The titanium implant can last a lifetime with proper care, while other options may need replacing every few years.
Additionally, dentures or bridges rely on surrounding teeth for support. In contrast, implants are anchored directly into the jawbone—providing a much more secure fit and helping to preserve the health of adjacent teeth.
The benefits don't end there. The titanium implant is compatible with the human body, so they are unlikely to cause any allergic reactions. And because they are so well- tolerated by the body, implants have a very high success rate.
The Cons of Dental Implants
Although dental implants are a popular and excellent way to replace missing teeth, they're not without drawbacks. The cons to consider may be:
- Dental implants are more expensive than traditional dentures
- Placing the dental implant requires surgery and healing time
- There is a chance the implant may not fuse properly with the jawbone
- Implants are not always an option for people who have certain medical conditions or who have undergone specific medical treatments
However, many people feel that the advantages of dental implants outweigh the disadvantages and are willing to invest in their oral health.
Dental Implants in Eagan, MN
If you're tired of the slipping and sliding of traditional dentures or searching for more information about dental implants in Eagan, MN, give us a call and schedule a consultation. We'll be happy to answer any questions you have!
If you are missing some of your teeth, you know it can make you feel self-conscious. Maybe you don’t like to smile for pictures, or you cover your mouth when you talk. Luckily, partial dentures are one way to help alleviate these problems and allow you to smile again.
Missing teeth can also make eating certain foods difficult, so you may wonder if partial dentures will allow you to eat what you want.
What Are Partial Dentures?
Partial dentures are for patients who are missing some but not all of their teeth; they are a removable dental appliance specifically made for your mouth to replace those missing teeth. Partial dentures are highly durable and will help you regain a natural-looking smile.
Can You Eat Normally With Partial Dentures?
A common question for Dr. Michael and the staff at Gentle Dental Eagan is whether or not you can eat normally with partial dentures. It is true that there will be an adjustment period for you when you first get your partial dentures, but rest assured that before long, you will be able to eat what you want.
You should follow this advice to ensure a smooth transition:
Be sure to concentrate on proper chewing techniques so your new dentures stay in place.Begin with softer foods until you are used to your new dentures.Take small bites and chew slowly.If you have any issues or concerns, call our office and let us help!
Do You Have Questions About Partial Dentures in Eagan, MN?
If so, we would love to talk to you! Please call us at (651) 452-5511.
When most people think of dentures, they envision all of the outdated options. Dentures have come a long way! While it is true that dentures have been used for centuries to help those with missing teeth, modern dentures can be much more than just a cosmetic solution. Today, there are different types of dentures available, including partial dentures. Dentures come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, and Dr. Michael can customize them to meet the specific needs of each patient.
Partial dentures (offered in our Eagan, MN, office) are an excellent option for patients who have missing teeth but still have natural teeth remaining. In addition to improving the appearance of your smile, partial dentures can also help to prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of alignment. As a result, they offer both aesthetic and functional benefits. If you're wondering if partial dentures may be right for you, call our dental office – we'd be happy to help!
When you think of dental crowns, do you also think of root canals? If so, you're not the only one! After all, the two procedures are often performed at the same time. However, it's possible to get a crown without a root canal, and to get a root canal without a crown.
The Connection Between Dental Crowns and Root Canals
When a tooth becomes infected, it can be very painful. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissue and cause serious health problems. A root canal is a treatment performed to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.
Although root canals are often considered painful, they are actually quite effective at relieving pain and saving teeth. During a root canal, Dr. Michael will first remove the infected tissue. Next, he will clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth. Finally, he will fill the tooth and seal it.
A dental crown (placed by Dr. Michael in our Eagan, MN, dental office) is then positioned over the tooth to protect it from further damage. This dental crown restores the tooth to its original function.
Get Your Smile Back with a Dental Crown
In some cases, it may be possible to place a crown without first having a root canal. While this is typically only an option if the tooth is not badly damaged or decayed and there is no infection.
If you are considering a dental crown, be sure to discuss all of your options with Dr. Michael to ensure that you choose the treatment that is best for you.
One of the most common repercussions of untreated dental cavities and tooth damage is inner tooth infections. Yet, at the same time, your tooth’s structure and durability operate to keep your tooth’s insides safe from bacteria and other health threats.
But when an infection reaches your inner tooth, root canal treatment is the procedure by which Gentle Dental of Eagan removes infected tissue and seals your tooth against future disease. While some people believe this treatment is painful, the truth is that most pain results from the infection itself, and root canal treatment is what resolves that pain.
Procedure Steps for a Root Canal in Eagan, MN
The process for a root canal treatment is straightforward, and our dentist, Dr. Michael, will take steps to encourage your comfort during the procedure.
Step 1 – our team will ensure your tooth and the area around it are thoroughly numbed, and if you’ve selected a sedation option, we have effectively applied it. Step 2 – Dr. Michael creates a small opening in the top of your tooth to clean out infected tissue thoroughly. Step 3 – When your inner tooth is completely clean, he will apply a rubber-like material to seal your inner tooth. Step 4 – To protect your tooth for the long term, we finish most root canal treatments with a dental crown to completely cover your damaged tooth and restore chewing function and natural appearance.