Announcing our winners!

This morning, Dr. Tieken announced the winners of our patient contest! Are you one of them? If you are, please contact us here at the office to claim your prize! Congrats everyone!

Dr. Tieken and team, wishing you a pleasant, safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

The unofficial kickoff to summer—Memorial Day weekend—is two days away, and that means it's a time for Americans to remember all those who bravely fought and gave their lives for our country over the years.

For many folks here in League City, Kemah and surrounding communities, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the classroom or office is sweet relief. At the office of Dr. Derek Tieken, we know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, Memorial Day means a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories is on the way.

What about you? What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? Whether you're headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, or just hitting the great open roads of Texas, Dr. Tieken and our entire team would like to hear all about it!

We hope you have a safe and relaxing weekend!

Dr. Tieken presents: Mr. Bean goes to the dentist

Hey folks! How about a treat today? Here's a little classic dental humor for you to enjoy, from the bumbling yet lovable British spy, Mr. Bean. Our staff enjoyed it, and we know you'll get a laugh as well. Grab some popcorn and enjoy "Mr. Bean Goes to the Dentist”!

If you have any other video suggestions you think we should share with other patients, please let us know!

Oh no! Houston makes the ‘14 worst-teeth cities’ list!

What makes for a beautiful smile? Dr. Tieken and our staff will tell you regular dental visits, brushing and flossing, not smoking, minimizing your intake of soda and coffee, among other things, will maximize your chances of achieving optimal oral health. In 2009, TotalBeauty released their list of the “14 Worst-Teeth Cities,” and our team at J. Derek Tieken DDS is sad to report Houston was chosen among the fourteen.

Here’s an excerpt from the article: "Houston residents drink more cola than anywhere else in the country. That plus their ranking of no. 49 in dental visits and no. 41 in dentists per capita doesn't bode well for healthy teeth. Their hard water can also contribute to stains and their ranking as no. 6 in fattest cities means their teeth and gums may be lacking in nutrients and circulation as well."

Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting J. Derek Tieken DDS on a regular basis? If not, it’s time to schedule an appointment! And don’t forget the old dental saying: “Be true to your teeth or they’ll be false to you!”

Ask Dr. Tieken: How do my gums affect my heart?

Believe it or not, an estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of gum disease. Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that result in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In gingivitis, the milder form of gum disease, infection leads to chronic inflammation—gums are swollen, red, and sometimes bleeding. In the worst of cases, teeth are lost.

We know that gum disease is a threat to your oral health, but research is also pointing to health effects of periodontal diseases that go well beyond your mouth. Recently, our staff at Tieken Smiles read an article that reported a study that indicated an association between gum disease and heart disease.

In a recent report published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, researchers found that the more severe the gum disease, the thicker and harder the walls of your arteries are. We encourage you to check out the rest of the article for tips on how to improve your overall oral health. If you have any questions, please give us a call and we'll answer any concerns you may have!

March is National Nutrition Month! From J. Derek Tieken DDS

Before we forget about March and jump into April, our team, as well as Dr. Tieken, would like to remind that we celebrated March for one reason: National Nutrition Month. Every March, Dr. Tieken and thousands of dentists and hygienists around the nation celebrate this occasion, and this year was 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!

Dairy, your diet and periodontal disease, from Dr. Tieken

Dr. Derek Tieken wants to know: is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be. A 2008 study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease).

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw, resulting in a loss of teeth and bone. Gum disease has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Results of the study showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease. Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about keeping your teeth healthy, please give Dr. Tieken and team a call at (832) 769-4824.

Access your account—any day, any time—at J. Derek Tieken DDS

At the office of J. Derek Tieken, we embrace new technology, whether it's through the innovative treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern office conveniently located in League City.

Did you know that patients of Dr. Tieken have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—on our web site? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

Just see what some of our patients are saying about this service:

"This is awesome! It's nice to have your own personal data to review from time to time. I'm very pleased with the service I get at your office. The staff is excellent!" ~ Linda M.

"This service is incomparable." ~ Glenda K.

"YOU ROCK!!! ...so by far setting the pace in customer service." ~ Marlon R.

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our web site by clicking the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions!

Tackling sports injuries with Dr. Tieken

Dr. Tieken and our team 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. 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.

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.

Dr. Tieken and team want to know: What will you remember about 2009?

The year is almost over, and as Dr. Tieken and his team reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask all our patients: what was memorable about 2009 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2010? Do you have a New Year’s resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year's Eve, from Dr. Tieken and the rest of the team at Tieken Smiles!

Dr. Tieken is now on Twitter!

You probably already knew we have a Facebook fan page, but did you know Dr. Tieken and his team are now on Twitter?

We'll be tweeting as often as possible and would love if you'd "follow" us!

Happy Tuesday!

The Tieken team meets with author Gary Kadi

Recently, Dr. Tieken and his team attended a seminar with Gary Kadi, a respected adviser to dental team leaders around the world. Gary's ground-breaking, world renowned book, "Million Dollar Dentistry," is distributed in 37 countries with over 35,000 copies in 5 editions.

Gary, whose mission is to "enhance the quality of life for dentists, team members, and the patients they serve," had a lot of interesting things to say, and as a team, we love learning more about people and dentistry. We are also following Gary on our Twitter page (@tiekensmiles)

Tieken Smiles in the Community

Did you know Dr. Tieken and his team are involved in their community? Every November and December we donate toothbrushes and toothpaste to local churches for families in need of dental supplies.

Dr. Tieken is 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!

Happy Friday!

Patient reviews for Dr. Tieken

J. Derek Tieken DDS, serving League City and surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Tieken and his team!

"Skill, professionalism, office surroundings, staff, caring attitudes." ~ Jan S.

"Friendly and modern. It is unlike any other dentist office I have been to. Dr. Tieken took time with me... answered all my questions!" ~ Daniel P.

"Exceptional patient care. Always on time with my appointments. I do not have to wait." ~ Christopher M.

"He's very professional and I know that whatever he suggests is the truth. It is obvious he has a passion for what he does and the concern for the patient's outcome in dental health." ~ Linda M.