Talking cavities, with Dr. Tieken

Dr. Tieken knows one word nobody wants to hear when they visit the dentist is "Cavity"! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly is a cavity and how do they happen? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity you ask? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

The best prevention for cavities is regular checkups with Dr. Tieken and proper oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing. A regular checkup with Dr. Tieken consists of a thorough cleaning, polishing, and an oral exam by the doctor. During the oral exam, the doctor checks the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks, and tongue. At each visit, Dr. Tieken also checks old fillings and restorations because constant pressure from chewing, grinding, or clenching can cause them to wear away, chip, or crack. Digital X-rays will also be taken to pinpoint the cavities and to help determine the best treatment options.

If you have any questions about cavities, or to schedule an appointment at our office, please feel free to give us a call.

Enjoy your weekend, everybody.

Dr. Derek Tieken wants to know: What helps you relax?

Dr. Derek Tieken understands not everyone is always thrilled to see the dentist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit by using the latest technology to deliver the most advanced and accurate cosmetic treatments available. We pride ourselves in delivering the highest quality cosmetic dental care, as well as providing patients with accurate information, answers to any questions they may have, and a comfortable, professional, safe environment to receive cosmetic treatments.

Today, we thought we'd ask: What is it about our office that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our friendly and professional staff? Dr. Tieken himself?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call at (832) 769-4824! Enjoy your weekend!

Helpful Invisalign® tips from Dr. Tieken

The team at Tieken Smiles has blogged about the advantage of Invisalign treatment in the past, and today thought we'd share a few helpful Invisalign tips.

When wearing your Invisalign aligners, Dr. Tieken wants you to ask yourself the following questions:

1. Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.

2. Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not a necessity for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky a soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.

3. Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also easy: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment at our office, please feel free to give us a call!

Also, a quick reminder: we will be having another Invisalign Special Event in November. Dr. Tieken will be providing Invisalign treatment consultations to answer your questions about Invisalign treatment, the clear way to straighten teeth.

Dr. Tieken talks about the advantage of Perio Protect

Keeping your teeth clean and free of disease is a key part of maintaining your overall health, says Dr. Tieken. And that's why our office uses the Perio Tray®, a product marketed for the treatment of gum disease, and part of the Perio Protect System to help you achieve optimal health. The Perio Tray is used to administer the medicated solution Dr. Tieken prescribes for you, allowing it to reach deep crevices and pockets. Perio Tray has been approved by the FDA and is comfortable, convenient, and easy to use.

If Dr. Tieken feels the Perio Protect System is right for you, impressions will be made to ensure you receive customized trays that fit perfectly. Give us a call at (832) 769-4824 and ask for more information on the Perio Protect System.