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.

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.

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!