Join the conversation.

Whether you just began visiting us and have a follow-up question for Dr. Derek Tieken or if you’d simply like to drop us a quick line, we’d love to hear from you! We love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news here on our blog or communicating ideas on our interactive Facebook fan page.

Please visit TiekenSmiles on the following networks:

Facebook: facebook.com/DerekTieken
YouTube: youtube.com/jderektieken
Twitter: twitter.com/tiekensmiles
MySpace: myspace.com/tiekensmiles

See you online! Happy Holidays!

Dentistry from the Heart at Tieken Smiles

On Saturday, September 17th our hygienists performed 69 cleanings, and Dr. Tieken treated 35 patients with fillings and extractions all at no charge. Every patient that we saw was so grateful to us for serving them, and they were such a pleasure to work with.

It was an extremely rewarding day, helping to restore smiles for people who don't have the means to pay for dental work. We look forward to hosting this event annually.

Check out a short clip above!

Season’s Greetings from Tieken Smiles!

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as Dr. Derek Tieken and our team at Tieken Smiles reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2012? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

Happy Holidays!

Talkin' cavities with Dr. Derek Tieken

Dr. Derek 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.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Tieken Smiles!

Share your winter break plans with us!

Dr. Derek Tieken and our team at Tieken Smiles want to know: what do your winter plans look like? Do you have any plans for an exciting family vacation? Are you hanging out around town? Catching up on sleep? Spending time with friends? Let us know!

Please feel free to share your exciting winter plans and experiences with us here or on our Facebook page! We would like to wish all of our patients and their families a safe and fun holiday season!

How much do you love your smile? From Dr. Tieken

We hope you had a great Thanksgiving weekend! Your smile says so much about you, but if you are not satisfied with the appearance of your smile, it may not be saying anything at all. At the dental practice of Dr. Derek Tieken, we want to help you achieve a beautiful, confident, aesthetic smile that says it all!

And speaking of smiling, in a poll conducted by Glamour Magazine earlier this year, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?”

Well, 44 percent of folks out there chose teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of one’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well. Please contact Tieken Smiles today at (281) 334-4944 to schedule a complimentary dental consultation with Dr. Tieken. See you soon!

A season of thanks

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season almost upon us, Dr. Derek Tieken and our entire staff wanted to stop for a moment to say how thankful we are to have you in our dental family. We realize that our practice here in League City and the Bay Area thrives because of our great patients. We are the lucky ones because we not only help keep you and your smile healthy, but we also have the pleasure of knowing you and your loved ones.

As always, if you know anyone we can help, just let us know. We promise to give them the same quality care that we have given you. We hope that this Thanksgiving and holiday season brings fond memories. Thank you for being part of our family.

REMINDER: Don’t throw those insurance benefits away!

Dr. Derek Tieken and our team at Tieken Smiles would once again like to give those patients with flex spend, health savings, or insurance benefits a friendly end of the year reminder that it's high time to schedule your dental visits so you optimize your benefit.

Now is the time to reserve you appointment with us - space is limited and we tend to get busy, so don’t wait to give us a call at (832) 769-4824!

Best of the Bay voting is ON!

It is time again to vote for the Best of the Bay! Dr. Derek Tieken has been the proud winner of the Best Dentist award for the past 9 consecutive years, and we hope to achieve the award again this year.

Please show your love and support by placing your votes. Thank you!

Please visit www.baygroupmedia.com to vote!

Tell Dr. Tieken what's on your mind!

Week after week, Dr. Derek Tieken and our creative staff at Tieken Smiles blog about important topics pertinent to dental care and your well-being, including innovative dental techniques we offer at our convenient League City office.

Today, however, we thought we’d step back and ask you, our loyal patients and readers: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the field of dentistry or about your treatment? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

So… take it away and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have!

Oral cancer screening with VELscope® at Tieken Smiles

In our continuing efforts to provide the most advanced technology and highest quality dental care, the office of J. Derek Tieken is proud to include the VELscope® Oral Cancer Screening System as an integral part of our comprehensive oral cancer screening program. Every hour of every day in the United States someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth most common diagnosed form of the disease. The 5-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved.

But there's a revolutionary device that provides Dr. Tieken with an easy-to-use oral examination system for the early detection of abnormal soft tissue. Clinical studies have determined that using VELscope after the standard oral cancer examination improves the dentist's ability to identify, evaluate and monitor suspicious areas at their earliest stages. Early detection of pre-cancerous tissue can minimize or eliminate the potentially disfiguring effects of oral cancer and possibly save your life.

So, how does it work? VELscope emits a safe blue light into your mouth, which causes the tissue to appear different colours through the viewfinder. This allows Dr. Tieken to tell the difference between normal and abnormal tissue. Best of all, the procedure is quick, painless and potentially life-saving. Ask Dr. Tieken about a screening at your next appointment!

Smile! October is National Dental Hygiene Month!

Did you know that October is National Dental Hygiene Month? For our staff at J. Derek Tieken DDS PA, that means only one thing: Reminding you that your teeth are an important part of your body, and keeping them clean helps keep your mouth and your body healthy. By taking care of your teeth, eating a balanced diet and visiting our convenient League City office on a regular basis, you can have healthy teeth and an attractive smile throughout your entire life.

We encourage you to check out the American Dental Association website as well, which provides pointers on keeping your mouth clean and healthy. Lastly, has it been six months since your last visit to J. Derek Tieken DDS PA? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call to set up an appointment with Dr. Derek Tieken.

October Featured Patient Review

At TiekenSmiles, we truly love getting testimonials like this... thank you for writing in and for your kind words!

What a great dentist and staff!!! I could sum it all up in two words... BEYOND AMAZING!!! :)

My family and I met Dr. Tieken and his staff during the 2011 Dentistry From The Heart event.

What started out as them just getting cleanings and myself a filling turned into a miracle for me. It turned out that I did not need a fillling in fact what I needed was a flipper. Because, the missing teeth were causing pain to the tooth I thought needed filled. Dr. Tieken and his staff went above and beyond to make sure my family and I were comfortable as well as the dental care we so desperately needed! I am currently pursuing a dental assistant certification at a local college and it's very important to me to have a healthy smile of my own to share with my future patients. Dr. Tieken has made this possible. I smile because of his generosity and golden heart!!!! Honestly, words can not express my gratitude; I am eternally thankful!!!

Next year my family and I plan on going to the Dentistry From The Heart event except this time I we will be assisting the staff with those in need of dental care.

Tieken Smiles, supporting National Dental Hygiene Month!

October is here, and for our staff at the office of Derek Tieken, that means only one thing: National Dental Hygiene Month!.

Your teeth are an important part of your body, and keeping them clean helps keep your mouth and your body healthy. By taking care of your teeth, eating a balanced diet and visiting our convenient League City office on a regular basis, you can have healthy teeth and an attractive smile throughout your entire life.

We encourage you to check out the official National Dental Hygiene Month website, which provides pointers on keeping your mouth clean and healthy. Lastly, has it been six months since your last visit to Dr. Tieken's office? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call at (832) 769-4824 to set up an appointment.

Happy Monday!

Ask Dr. Tieken: What’s the deal with coffee and tea?

At Tieken Smiles, we know most folks enjoy a hot-brewed coffee or tea in the morning, followed by a cola (or more coffee) in the afternoon. But what many don’t know is that both coffee and tea are especially tough on your teeth, because tannic acid (the substance that makes the dark color) etches into the pits and grooves of tooth enamel, and can stain your pearly whites brown.

So, if you can’t give up that morning cup o’joe, what can you do? Dr. Tieken and team suggest rinsing with a glass of water after every cup. If you enjoy iced coffee or tea, drink your beverage with a straw so that tannins don’t make contact with your front upper and lower teeth. Even if you’re not a big coffee drinker, we encourage you to swish and swallow some water at the end of each meal. Water, after all, helps neutralize acids left in your mouth after eating and also reduces cavity-causing bacteria.

Dr. Tieken and our staff also invite you to visit our convenient League City office for whitening options. We can help bleach your teeth with proven and professional products. To learn more about whitening options at our office, please visit our website, ask us on Facebook or give us a call!

Manual vs. Electric Toothbrushes: What’s the Difference? From Dr. Tieken

Everybody is jumping on the electric toothbrush bandwagon in recent years, with many experts in the dental field claiming electric toothbrushes provide superior dental care. It’s true that electric toothbrushes are recommended for those who can’t do a good job brushing manually or who have arthritis or other conditions. But manual toothbrushes do have some advantages, according to an article we recently found including:

• Cost. While electric toothbrushes may be expensive for many people, manual toothbrushes are both inexpensive and accessible.

• Less pressure on your teeth & gums. While we can feel the amount of pressure we’re using as we grasp our manual toothbrush, we can’t feel the pressure nearly as well with an electric toothbrush. Placing too much pressure on our teeth can wear away at the tooth enamel, which causes pain, sensitivity, as well as an increased risk of tooth decay.

• Simple to pack. Manual toothbrushes are easy to carry around for those business or family trips. People are less likely to let their good dental care habits lapse on vacation with a toothbrush that they can easily bring along!

• Better for kids. Learning at a young age how to properly use a manual toothbrush helps children get a feel for how to properly take care of their oral hygiene.

Electric toothbrushes, on the other hand, are more effective in removing plaque and are considered a better alternative to maintaining gum health. Remember, whether you choose a manual or an electric toothbrush, Dr. Tieken and our team at TiekenSmiles encourage you to choose one with soft bristles and be sure to change the bristles on the electric brush when they become worn down. We also encourage you to replace your toothbrush every three months, when the bristles are no longer straight and firm or after you recover from a cold.

Give us a call if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook! Happy brushing!

Year-end insurance reminder from Dr. Tieken

Happy Monday! Dr. Derek Tieken and our staff would like to give those patients with flex spend, health savings, or insurance benefits a friendly end of the year reminder that it's high time to schedule your dental visits so you optimize your benefit.

Now is the time to reserve you appointment with us - space is limited and we tend to get busy, so don’t wait to give us a call at (832) 769-4824!

September is National Gum Care Month!

At the office of Dr. Derek Tieken, we know that gingivitis, which is the early stage of periodontal disease, can be difficult to recognize if you're not a trained dentist. Many people don't recognize the warning signs - bleeding and swollen gums - as a precursor to periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. This month, a national campaign is under way to raise awareness about gum health and periodontal disease, and we wanted to help do our part to spread the word!

Dr. Tieken and our staff will tell you early recognition and action are the most important steps to health gums, and ultimately a health body, too! Studies are published every year linking oral health, including the gums, to the health of other areas of the body, such as your heart. One of the most important steps to improving the care of your gums is recognizing the warning signs for gum disease.

Our staff knows these can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you happen to notice any of these signs, please schedule an appointment at our convenient League City office by calling (832) 769-4824 as soon as possible. Dr. Tieken can take proactive steps to prevent gingivitis and gum disease, while showing you how to improve gum care in your daily oral hygiene habits.

Ask Dr. Tieken: What’s the deal with coffee and tea?

At TiekenSmiles, we know most folks enjoy a hot-brewed coffee or tea in the morning, followed by a cola (or more coffee) in the afternoon. But what many don’t know is that both coffee and tea are especially tough on your teeth, because tannic acid (the substance that makes the dark color) etches into the pits and grooves of tooth enamel, and can stain your pearly whites brown.

So, if you can’t give up that morning cup o’joe, what can you do? Dr. Derek Tieken and team suggest rinsing with a glass of water after every cup. If you enjoy iced coffee or tea, drink your beverage with a straw so that tannins don’t make contact with your front upper and lower teeth. Even if you’re not a big coffee drinker, we encourage you to swish and swallow some water at the end of each meal. Water, after all, helps neutralize acids left in your mouth after eating and also reduces cavity-causing bacteria.

Dr. Tieken and our staff also invite you to visit our convenient League City office for whitening options. We can help bleach your teeth with proven and professional products. To learn more about whitening options at our office, please visit our website, ask us on Facebook or give us a call!

Dental fun facts with Tieken Smiles!

Everyone loves fun facts and dental tips. Fun, fun, fun! Our team at Tieken Smiles came across these dental fun facts recently and thought you might enjoy!

• The second most common disease in the United States is cavities. The first is the common cold.
• There are almost 9,000 accidental pockings and piercings with toothpicks per year.
• X-rays may be an effective tool in preventing strokes.
• A child will have 20 baby teeth by the time he or she is 2 years old. Through childhood, kids gradually lose baby teeth and grow 32 permanent teeth, including wisdom teeth.
• According to consumer reports, dentists are among the 5 most trusted professionals in the United States.
• Approximately $2 billion a year is spent on dental products like toothpastes, mouthwashes and dental floss.
• The average American spends about 38 days brushing teeth over his or her lifetime.
• Kids in North America spend half a billion dollars per year on chewing gum.
• Approximately 94 percent of Americans say they brush nightly while only 81 percent say they brush first thing in the morning.
• Grand Rapids, MI was the first American city to fluoridate its water.
• Earliest record of a toothbrush was found in Chinese literature about 1600 AD
• The natural bristles of early toothbrushes were taken from the necks and shoulders of swine, especially pigs living in colder climates like Siberia and China.

Lastly, has it been at least six months since your last checkup? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call!

Tell us about your summer!

The dog days of summer are upon us, and what better time for our team at Tieken Smiles to ask our patients about their summer!

Whether you visited Disney World, went on a camping trip, visited the state fair or just stayed in town and hung out with friends, we want to know how you’re all spending your summer! Please feel free to share your summer plans and experiences with us below or on our Facebook page as the summer comes to an end soon for a lot of our patients at Dr. Tieken's office!

We look forward to reading all about your adventures! Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Emergency care with Dr. Tieken

At TiekenSmiles, we know dental emergencies are never convenient or timely. If you are a patient of record, we are committed to your dental health and are more than willing to see you.

We are here to help you, any time, any day, and when your dental health is at risk, we’ll do everything we can to make sure that you’re treated as soon as possible. While dental emergencies are rare, we know they can happen at any moment, and it’s important to know how to take care of your teeth no matter what.

Common dental emergencies include:

• A bitten lip or tongue
• Broken or cracked tooth/teeth
• Broken jaw
• Permanent tooth that has been knocked out
• Object caught between teeth
• Severe toothache

If you have a dental emergency after regular office hours, please give us a call. If you are calling us after hours, please follow the emergency prompts to contact Dr. Tieken. We proudly serve patients from League City, Seabrook, Webster and Kemah, among other surrounding communities.

We hope you’re all enjoying your summer.

Are you wearing your mouth guard this summer?

At TiekenSmiles, we know how important it is to protect your face. The spring and summer months bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of damaging your precious mouth and pearly whites.

That’s why we are doing our part to spread the word that facial sports injuries can be avoided simply by reminding yourself or your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Dr. Tieken may recommend the best mouth guard for you.

In addition, here are a few tips for keeping yourself and your kids safe on the field. Remind them to:

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Under Armour mouthguards, available at our convenient League City office, enhance the performance of every athlete and give you peace of mind that your mouth is protected.

Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can you avoid serious sports injuries. Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at J. Derek Tieken, DDS.

Your oral health and overall health, from Tieken Smiles

Don’t put off your next visit to see Drs. Tieken or Cimino! As we’ve shared in previous blog posts, oral health issues have been increasingly linked to other health concerns, such as heart disease. Cardiovascular disease remains American's number one killer, claiming more lives than the rest of major causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Believe it or not, an estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of gum disease. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care.

Studies are also beginning to suggest that patients, especially those with periodontal disease, are believed to have an elevated risk of heart attack and stroke. Since most patients are not regularly visiting a heart specialist, their regular visits to Tieken Smiles can help detect early warning signs of heart issues, prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages. We’d also like you to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25).
A
dditionally, if it’s been more than six months since your last visit to our League City office, please give us a call! Summer makes for a great time to check in with us!

This summer, smile with Invisalign Teen!

There’s good news for teenage smiles at Tieken Smiles! We are proud to offer Invisalign Teen, a popular choice for straightening teeth without traditional wires and brackets.

Much like Invisalign for adults, Invisalign Teen is an alternative to metallic braces and is undetectable when worn. Invisalign moves teeth at a pace that is faster than traditional braces and are:

-Clear
-Removable
-Super comfortable
-Customized just for you

Invisalign aligners are really comfortable and very durable. They fit in with any of your extracurricular activities. So whether you're swimming the 50 meter race, out on the field throwing the football, or playing the clarinet with the school's band, you don't have to worry about your braces getting in the way!

Drs. Tieken and Cimino proudly offer free consultations for Invisalign Teen! We look forward to working with you and your family and sharing in your exciting transformation!

Join the conversation.

Whether you just began visiting us and have a follow-up question for Dr. Derek Tieken or if you’d simply like to drop us a quick line, we’d love to hear from you! We love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news here on our blog or communicating ideas on our interactive Facebook fan page.

Please visit TiekenSmiles on the following networks:

Facebook: facebook.com/DerekTieken
YouTube: youtube.com/jderektieken
Twitter: twitter.com/tiekensmiles
MySpace: myspace.com/tiekensmiles

See you online!

Happy Independence Day from Dr. Tieken and team!

America turns 235 years old today! It’s a day to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and also a time for every American to pay homage to our soldiers - past and present - who have placed themselves in harm’s way so that we may continue to enjoy our freedom.

Our team at Tieken Smiles would like to know: what are your plans for the 4th of July? Are you out in the sun? Have you stocked up on fireworks? Are you going to grill up your favorite summer foods? If you have a 4th of July tradition, we would love to hear all about it.

We hope you have a fun and safe holiday! Feel free to upload your 4th of July photos to our Facebook page and let us know how your Independence Day turned out this year.

First annual Dentistry From the Heart on September 17!

We are proud to announce that on September 17, 2011 my staff and I will host our 1st annual Dentistry From The Heart event, which is a free day of dentistry for anyone who needs it. As a growing number of Americans lack dental insurance, we felt this was a great way to address many health problems and give back to our community.

The event will take place 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at our office here in League City. The address is 3023 Marina Bay Dr. Suite 105.

If you would like to contribute in any way please contact Ashley at (281) 334-4944.


Special Thanks to our Event Sponsors:






















Bruce Wilkerson
United Site Service
Bay Area Printing
Henry Schein Dental
3M
One Stop Party Shop
Bay Area Magazine
Change Magazine
Randalls League City
Rose Ann Davis
Marco's Pizza
Patricia Meaney
Domino's Pizza
David Jarvis
Suni Sherven

Drs. Tieken and Cimino proudly offer complimentary consultations!

At Tieken Smiles, 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.

One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in dental treatment. During this time, you’ll have time reserved with Drs. Tieken and Cimino, who will assess your particular needs as well as discuss treatment options available and answer any questions you may have. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning your dental treatment.

Please contact our practice at (281) 334-4944 to schedule a complimentary dental consultation.

Dr. Tieken and team in the community

Dr. Tieken and our team are proud to be involved in our community. Every November and December we donate toothbrushes and toothpaste to local churches for families in need of dental supplies, and are also involved with the Give Back a Smile program, a charitable foundation founded through the AACD that restores broken and damaged teeth of domestic violence survivors.

For a complete list of the programs the team at Tieken Smiles is involved with, you can visit our the "Giving Back to the Community" page on our web site. And be sure to keep checking our blog for new updates on what we're doing in the community!

Welcome, Dr. Michael Cimino!

We are so excited to officially welcome Dr. Michael Cimino into our practice as of Monday, and want to thank you all for your trust and support!!

Here's a little bit about Dr. Cimino:

Dr. Cimino’s enthusiasm for providing quality dentistry to his patients stretches far and wide. A native of Louisiana, Dr. Cimino graduated from Louisiana Tech University, and later proceeded to attend the acclaimed, Louisiana State University School of Dentistry, in New Orleans, where he earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery.

After graduating, Dr. Cimino, has dedicated himself to learning the latest skills and nuances in today’s practice of dentistry to achieve predictable functional esthetics. He is currently undergoing extensive prosthodontic training at the renowned Dawson Academy for Advanced Dental Study. He has now logged over 100 hours of continuing education in the last two years, working towards his candidacy for a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry.

Dr. Cimino is a proud member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, Texas Dental Association, and the Greater Houston Dental Society.

In his spare time Dr. Cimino enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling, and working out to stay healthy.

Smile! June is National Smile Month!

Can you believe it’s already June? Today, Dr. Derek Tieken and team thought we’d tell you June is National Smile Month, and a good time to remind all our patients at Tieken Smiles to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to see us!

Below are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks
* Visit us regularly (every 6 months or as recommended by Dr. Tieken)!

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call, ask Dr. Tieken during your next visit or ask us on Facebook!

Smile makeovers at Tieken Smiles!

The most dramatic treatment Dr. Derek Tieken offers at our convenient League City office is a smile makeover.

Using a variety of procedures, your smile can be transformed to the ideal one you have always dreamed of. We begin by listening to your desires and preferences. Next, Dr. Tieken and our staff analyze your smile completely, including your lips, teeth, mouth, jaw line, etc.

Actual treatment takes only two appointments in a period of several weeks or more, depending on the patient. Patients will be amazed at how a smile makeover can improve their appearance and self-image. For many, this treatment is a life-changing event!

If you're interested in a smile makeover, we encourage you to give us a call at (281) 334-4944. Have a wonderful rest of the week!

Love your smile? Tell the world ALL ABOUT IT!

Your smile says so much about you, but if you are not satisfied with the appearance of your smile, it may not be saying anything at all. At the dental practice of Dr. Derek Tieken, we want to help you achieve a beautiful, confident, aesthetic smile that says it all!

Whether you've visited TiekenSmiles, for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how we're doing! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Places page and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Dr. Tieken and our team create more beautiful smiles for patients in League City, Houston, Seabrook, Webster, Kemah and surrounding communities.

You may write a review here.

Thank you and enjoy your week!

FREE screenings this Wednesday!

Dr. Derek Tieken and our team invite you to head to UTMB Ear, Nose and Throat Consultants this Wednesday, May 11 for FREE screenings for oral, head and neck cancer.

We hope to see you at 1600 League City Pkwy, Suite D from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Please give us a call at 281-338-0829 for more info!

Also, make sure to get your wildflower seeds while you are here for your May visit! We have ordered enough for everyone and encourage you to plant them where ever you want to see more life and beauty in the community!

Talkin' cavities with Dr. Derek Tieken

Dr. Derek 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.

Dr. Tieken and team, taking steps to become more green

Dr. Derek Tieken and our staff at Tieken Smiles realize we are living in an age with a renewed commitment to conservation, and are frequently reminded to recycle, reduce and reuse. Earth Day is tomorrow, April 22nd, and we thought this would a great time to discuss the things that our office does to conserve our natural resources and the environment.

Did you know that we offer patients account access 24 hours a day, seven days a week? Our office has convenient and secure online services with Sesame 24-7™. Patients can also receive appointment reminders through email or text messages. Since this information is submitted electronically, we eliminate the use of large amounts of paper and printing materials.

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage.

Dr. Tieken & our team would love to hear how you minimize your impact on the environment. Leave us a comment below or you can also visit our Facebook page and post something on our wall.

Happy Earth Day!

Let's hear your ideas!

Introducing more fun at Tieken Smiles! We are now accepting suggestions to bring excitement into the practice - let us know what your great ideas are and don't be afraid to get creative. One patient joked about having an ice cream machine, and we now plan to have one here for a month this summer! :) Stay tuned for more details... but we are ready for your feedback! Give us all you've got!

Please let us know by posting here, our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Dr. Tieken & team support Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Visiting the office of Dr. Derek Tieken on a regular basis will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy, but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy as well.

The fact is, every hour of every day in the U.S., someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the disease. The five-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved. Since April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, we would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our patients about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene.

As your dentist, Dr. Tieken is a specialist who works to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Please let us now if you have any questions about your oral health during your next appointment at Tieken Smiles. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

Play it safe this spring, from Dr. Tieken

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s already springtime! The spring months, however, bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. If you play sports, it’s important that you consult Dr. Derek Tieken for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and others.

In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Tieken.

Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Under Armour mouthguards, available at our convenient League City office, enhance the performance of every athlete and give you peace of mind that your mouth is protected. Remember, only by using a mouth guard can folks avoid serious sports injuries. So, the next time you're in for a visit with Dr. Tieken, we encourage you to ask us for an Under Armour mouth guard.

Please give us a call if you have any questions!

How important is your smile? From Dr. Tieken

Your smile says so much about you, but if you are not satisfied with the appearance of your smile, it may not be saying anything at all. At the dental practice of Dr. Derek Tieken, we want to help you achieve a beautiful, confident, aesthetic smile that says it all!

And speaking of smiling, in a new poll conducted by Glamour Magazine, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?

Well, 44 percent of folks out there are choosing teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of a person’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

Please contact Tieken Smiles today at (281) 334-4944 to schedule a complimentary dental consultation with Dr. Tieken. See you soon!

Access your account—any day, any time, anywhere!

Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds simple and convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at Tieken Smiles enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website. You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You, too, may sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started! Or, you may ask Dr. Tieken and our team on Facebook!

March is National Nutrition Month!

Did you know March is National Nutrition Month? Every March, Dr. Tieken and thousands of dentists and hygienists in America celebrate this occasion, and 2011 is no different. This spring, we want you to think diabetes, obesity and periodontal disease, and how healthful eating and physical activity may improve periodontal health<.

Dr. Tieken and team know small changes really can make a big difference, and the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has some advice on ways to start improving your diet this spring:

• Focus on fresh fruits and veggies: Add a serving each day to one meal and increase it every few weeks. Adding more of these foods into your diet is important whether you buy frozen, fresh or organic.

• Think fresh, think local: From farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods in League City and Houston.

• Make each of your calories count: When you are choosing between options, focus instead on the one with more of the vitamins and nutrients that you need. Sometimes, foods with fewer calories aren’t always the healthiest options.

• Don't give in: If you have a sweet tooth, have fruit and yogurt for dessert. If you crave a snack in the afternoon, enjoy some trail mix or nuts.

• Expand your horizons: Try a fish you’ve never eaten before or find a new vegetable recipe. By testing yourself, you might find new healthy favorites to add to your regular grocery list.

If you have additional questions about periodontal disease or keeping yourself and your mouth healthy, please give us a call at (832) 769-4824!

Invisalign patient testimonial [Video]

Dr. Tieken and team came across this video late last week, and realized that it’s just what folks considering Invisalign might be interested in watching. Invisalign sure gets a ton of promotion online (including here on our blog), but people rarely get the see a clear cut, unbiased, point of view from someone who actually has chosen to straighten their teeth with Invisalign.

At Tieken Smiles, we get quite a lot of requests for Invisalign, and always let our patients know about the stages of Invisalign, as well as how one might first react to it. But, to hear it from someone actually wearing these clear aligners is really something else!

Check out this video of a patient who has been wearing her aligners for only 10 minutes! Because they’re clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and no one will know it but you! Please give us a call to set up an appointment with Dr. Tieken, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

We hope you had a wonderful Presidents’ Day weekend!

Love your smile? Tell the world all about it!

Your smile says so much about you, but if you are not satisfied with the appearance of your smile, it may not be saying anything at all. At the dental practice of Dr. Derek Tieken, we want to help you achieve a beautiful, confident, aesthetic smile that says it all!

Dr. Tieken and our team use the latest technology in our state-of-the-art dental facility to deliver the most advanced and accurate cosmetic treatments available. For over 20 years, our practice has offered cosmetic veneers, and today our offerings have grown to include Invisalign® invisible braces, advanced teeth whitening, and full smile makeovers.

Whether you've visited J. Derek Tieken DDS, for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how we're doing! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Dr. Tieken and our team create more beautiful smiles for patients in League City, Houston, Seabrook, Webster, Kemah and surrounding communities.

You may write a review here.

Thank you and enjoy your week!