Thursday 14 September 2017

Post-Treatment Care & Tooth Extractions

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about post-treatment care for tooth extractions.


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Sunday 10 September 2017

Gum Disease Treatment

Defeat Gum Disease Painlessly

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, generates more tooth loss than decay. Dr. Dernick is pleased to offer his patients a powerful weapon in the fight against gum disease. Available in powder form, ARESTIN™ contains tiny microspheres, which deliver a time-released antibiotic directly to the site of the infection, those tiny spaces between gums and teeth. If you have gum disease, it can now be treated painlessly - and that's truly good news.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Thursday 7 September 2017

Dental Tourism

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about the risks and additional costs associated with dental tourism.


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Sunday 3 September 2017

Prevent Migraine and Tension Headaches with a Dental Device

Headache and Migraine Sufferers - We May Have Your Miracle Treatment!

There is a drug-free method to prevent migraine and tension headaches. This FDA-approved miracle device known as NTI™ works by relaxing the muscles under your scalp. In clinical trials, 82% of migraine sufferers had relief from their headaches and overall experienced a 77% reduction in their migraine events. NTI has been talked about by Diane Sawyer on Good Morning America and written up in People Magazine. The results have been outstanding. Best of all, the device is fast, easy to use, painless, and inexpensive. If you have a history of migraines or know someone who does, then be sure to ask us about this exciting new treatment.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Thursday 31 August 2017

Teeth Grinding (also known as Bruxism)

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about teeth grinding also known as bruxism.


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Sunday 27 August 2017

Dental Crowns

Restore Those Damaged Teeth!

Over time, teeth can wear down, meaning they can no longer do the job for which they were intended. Sometimes, a tooth can even be broken or marred to the point where a simple filling won't adequately repair the injury. In these cases, a crown will save and even add strength to your damaged tooth. We use the most advanced materials available to create crowns that look so natural you won't be able to distinguish them from a real tooth. Our zirconia crowns are stronger than traditional porcelain. In addition, the material is less bulky and shapes easily to form the most realistic version of a tooth possible.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 


Monday 21 August 2017

Wisdom Teeth

Below is an article found on MouthHealthy.org.


With age comes wisdom. Specifically, wisdom teeth.

Your mouth goes through many changes in your lifetime. One major dental milestone that usually takes place between the ages of 17 and 21 is the appearance of your third molars. Historically, these teeth have been called wisdom teeth because they come through at a more mature age.

When they come through correctly, healthy wisdom teeth can help you chew. Itís normal to feel a little discomfort when your wisdom teeth appear, but if you have pain, see your dentist immediately.

Room to Grow?
Wisdom teeth can lead to problems if there isnít enough space for them to surface or they come through in the wrong position. If your dentist says your wisdom teeth are impacted, he or she means they are trapped in your jaw or under your gums.

As your wisdom teeth make their way through your gums, your dentist will be monitoring your mouth for signs of the following:

  • Wisdom teeth that arenít in the right position can allow food to become trapped. That gives cavity-causing bacteria a place to grow.
  • Wisdom teeth that havenít come in properly, which can make it difficult to floss between the wisdom teeth and the molars next to them.
  • Wisdom teeth that have partially come through can give bacteria a place to enter the gums and create a place for infection to occur. This may also lead to pain, swelling and stiffness in your jaw.
  • Wisdom teeth that donít have room to come through are thought by some to crowd or damage neighboring teeth.
  • A wisdom tooth that is impacted can form a cyst on or near the impacted tooth. This could damage the roots of nearby teeth or destroy the bone that supports your teeth.

To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.

The article also contains links about:

  • Why You Might Need to Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
  • Keeping Your Wisdom Teeth?

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Monday 14 August 2017

Root Canals

Below is an excerpt from an article found on MouthHealthy.org.



Root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp (soft tissue inside your teeth containing blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue) becomes inflamed or diseased. During root canal treatment, your dentist or endodontist (a dentist who specializes in treating the insides of teeth) removes the diseased pulp. The pulp chamber and root canal(s) of the tooth are then cleaned and sealed. If the infected pulp is not removed, pain and swelling can result, and your tooth may have to be removed.

Causes of an infected pulp could include:

  • a deep cavity
  • repeated dental procedures
  • a cracked or broken tooth
  • injury to the tooth (even if thereís not a visible crack or chip)

If you continue to care for your teeth and gums your restored tooth could last a lifetime. However, regular checkups are necessary; a tooth without its nerve can still develop cavities or gum disease. Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure with little or no discomfort involving one to three visits. Best of all, it can save your tooth and your smile.

To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.


Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Ask the Dentist by the ADA: 'Baby Teeth Are Going to Fall Out, So Why Take Care of Them?'

The American Dental Association has created informative videos called Ask the Dentist. Here is their video on: 'Baby Teeth Are Going to Fall Out, So Why Take Care of Them?'


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Thursday 10 August 2017

Dental Sealants

Prevent Tooth Decay - the Easy Way!

The application of dental sealants can help prevent suffering from tooth decay, which means fewer damaged teeth that could potentially result in a lifetime of fillings and crowns. We all know that brushing your teeth properly is an acquired skill. Even with scrupulous brushing the deep grooves in the back of teeth are often missed, even by adults. Sealants form a barrier between the back teeth and bacteria, food acids, and plaque formation that can develop within our mouths.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Monday 7 August 2017

Dentures

Below is an excerpt from an article found on MouthHealthy.org.



Dentures are removable appliances that can replace missing teeth and help restore your smile. If youíve lost all of your natural teeth, whether from gum disease, tooth decay or injury, replacing missing teeth will benefit your appearance and your health. Thatís because dentures make it easier to eat and speak better than you could without teethóthings that people often take for granted.

When you lose all of your teeth, facial muscles can sag, making you look older. Dentures can help fill out the appearance of your face and profile. They can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth so that your appearance does not change much. Dentures may even improve the look of your smile.

Types of dentures:

  • Conventional. This full removable denture is made and placed in your mouth after the remaining teeth are removed and tissues have healed, which may take several months.
  • Immediate. This removable denture is inserted on the same day that the remaining teeth are removed. Your dentist will take measurements and make models of your jaw during a preliminary visit. You donít have to be without teeth during the healing period, but may need to have the denture relined or remade after your jaw has healed.
  • Overdenture. Sometimes some of your teeth can be saved to preserve your jawbone and provide stability and support for the denture. An overdenture fits over a small number of remaining natural teeth after they have been prepared by your dentist. Implants can serve the same function, too.

To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.

The remainder of the article contains more information under each of the headings:

  • Like your teeth, your dentures should be brushed daily to remove food particles and plaque. Brushing also can help keep the teeth from staining.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Ask the Dentist by the ADA: 'When Should I Start Brushing My Child’s Teeth?'

The American Dental Association has created informative videos called Ask the Dentist. Here is their video on: 'When Should I Start Brushing My Childís Teeth?'


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Thursday 3 August 2017

Non Surgical Gum Disease Treatments

Have You Been Told You Need Gum Surgery?

Does the painless treatment of gum disease seem improbable? It's not. You no longer need to dread gum surgery. Dr. Dernick uses an advanced FDA-approved laser for the effective, non-surgical treatment of gum disease. The procedure is both minimally invasive and patient friendly.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Monday 31 July 2017

Ask the Dentist by the ADA: 'Does Bottled Water Have Fluoride?'

The American Dental Association has created informative videos called Ask the Dentist. Here is their video on: 'Does Bottled Water Have Fluoride?'


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Thursday 27 July 2017

White Dental Fillings

No Mercury! No Metals! No Kidding!

No more ugly black or metallic fillings in your future. Let's face it, metal doesn't bond well to teeth. So decay can and eventually does seep into the silver-mercury amalgam repaired tooth. With our white bonded fillings, we not only offer a modern restoration in a natural-looking white, but the material bonds so tightly to the healthy part of your tooth, it actually seals the tooth, preventing future decay.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Thursday 20 July 2017

Difference Between DDS and DMD

Below is an article found on MouthHealthy.org.

If you’re looking to find a dentist you may notice that while most are listed with a “DDS”, some may be listed as “DMD”. They both mean the same thing-your dentist graduated from an accredited dental school. The DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) and DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry or Doctor of Dental Medicine) are the same degrees. Dentists who have a DMD or DDS have the same education. It’s up to the universities to determine what degree is awarded, but both degrees use the same curriculum requirements.

Did you know that the level of education and clinical training required to earn a dental degree is on par with those of medical schools?
Generally, three or more years of undergraduate education plus four years of dental school is required to graduate and become a general dentist. Upon completion of their training, dentists must pass both a rigorous national written exam and a state or regional clinical licensing exam in order to practice. In order to keep their licenses, they must meet continuing education requirements for the remainder of their careers so that they may stay up to date on the latest scientific and clinical developments. Additional post-graduate training is required to become a dental specialist, such as an orthodontist, periodontist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

To read the entire article visit
MouthHealthy.org.

The article also contains links about: 

  • Looking for a dentist? 
  • Interested in a dental career?

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Saturday 15 July 2017

Ask the Dentist by the ADA: 'My Child Lost a Tooth! Now What?'

The American Dental Association has created informative videos called Ask the Dentist. Here is their video on: 'My Child Lost a Tooth! Now What?'


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Thursday 13 July 2017

3 Tips for Healthy Summer Smiles

Below is an excerpt from an article found on MouthHealthy.org.

Stay on a routine 
Whether your kids are staying up to catch fireflies or a fireworks show, resist the temptation to skip brushing before a late bedtime -or let it slide when they sleep in the next morning. “Don’t forget about your smile over the summer,” says ADA pediatric dentist Dr. Mary Hayes. “It’s important for families to consistently brush and floss, which keeps kids on track for healthy back-to-school dental visits.” 

Say no to sugary drinks and snacks 
As the temperature rises, it’s common for families to sip and snack during sports tournaments, festivals or nearly any community event. “Watch your family’s intake of lemonade, juice and soda,” says Dr. Hayes. “Consider sugary drinks treats to enjoy once in a while, and not often.” Instead, offer water (even better if it has fluoride) to beat the heat, or milk to drink with meals. And, don’t let summertime grazing damage your child’s smile. “Taking a break from snacking is healthy for your teeth,” says Dr. Hayes. “It allows time for saliva to bathe the teeth, wash away leftover food and get stronger.”  

Make your back-to-school dental visit early 
Some schools require back-to-school dental visits for certain grades, and these checkups can be a good way to be sure your child’s teeth stayed healthy. It is a good idea to make your child’s back-to-school appointment early in the summer to avoid the August rush and help insure you get the appointment time that works best for you. ìWe can help spot and take care of any issues, so your child doesn’t have to miss class once school starts,î Dr. Hayes says. “Visiting the dentist regularly can help your child’s smile stay healthy all year long.” 

To read the entire article visit Colgate.com.

The remainder of the article contains more information under each of the headings:

  • Stay on Routine
  • Say no to sugary drinks and snacks
  • Make your back-to-school dental visit early

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Tuesday 11 July 2017

Dental Root Canals

Saving Hopeless Teeth

Previously, the solution to teeth with damaged roots or infection was extraction. Fortunately, these teeth can now often be saved by a root canal. With modern anesthetics and technology, the procedure of fixing a tooth by removing the pulp and replacing it with filling material is painless. The once-dreaded root canal has lost its anxiety factor!

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Saturday 8 July 2017

Ask the Dentist by the ADA: 'What Kind of Toothpaste Should I Use?'

The American Dental Association has created informative videos called Ask the Dentist. Here is their video on: 'What Kind of Toothpaste Should I Use?'


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Thursday 6 July 2017

Dental Anxiety: 3 Ways to Stop Fearing the Dentist

Below is an excerpt from an article found on MouthHealthy.org.

If you ever get nervous just thinking about going to the dentist, you’re not alone. Perhaps you’re scared the visit might hurt or you haven’t been in a while and not sure what the dentist will find. 
Whatever your reason, the right dental team will make sure your dental and your emotional health are taken care of. The more you delay - or just don’t go - to the dentist, the higher your risk of developing dental problems that will make gearing up for future dental visits more difficult. In fact, seeing your dentist regularly can actually make the entire process - from making an appointment to sailing through it - much easier on many levels. 
Use these strategies at your next appointment to help ease your anxiety and strengthen your smile. 

1. Speak up 
Anyone with anxiety knows sharing your feelings makes a world of difference. If you're tense or anxious, do yourself a favor and get your concerns off your chest. Your dentist and dental team are better able to treat you if they know your needs. 

2. Distract yourself 
Taking your mind off the exam may seem impossible when you’re nervous, but there are some things that that can help distract your thoughts. 

3. Use mindfulness techniques 
Relaxation starts in the mind. Try deep breathing exercises to help relax tension in your muscles. 

To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.

The remainder of the article contains more information under each of the headings:

  • Speak Up
  • Distract yourself
  • Use mindfulness techniques

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Tuesday 4 July 2017

Dental Digital X-rays

Improving the Way We See Your Mouth

Our practice uses digital X-ray technology. We can take an image of your mouth and immediately view it on our computer screen. This allows us to view your entire mouth in one panoramic picture, including your upper and lower jaws. Even better, digital X-rays expose you to 75% less radiation than non-digital (film) X-rays, and this digital technology is 
"green" technology.


Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Saturday 1 July 2017

Ask the Dentist by the ADA: 'My Child Has a Toothache. Should I Call the Dentist?'

The American Dental Association has created informative videos called Ask the Dentist. Here is their video on: 'My Child Has a Toothache. Should I Call the Dentist?'


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Tuesday 27 June 2017

Dental Implants

Dental Implants Restore Smiles!

Dental implants look so life-like that only your dentist will know they're not your natural teeth. Unlike bridges or removable dentures, which float on top of the gums, a dental implant begins under your gums just like your original tooth did. In fact, it's almost like growing a new one! Implants can be used to replace any number of lost teeth. From the front of the mouth, where they are most visible, to the back, where they provide stability to chew a full range of foods, implants can help you achieve a striking and healthy smile. Even people with no teeth can benefit from implants, because they can replace their dentures with teeth that don't move around when they talk and don't need to be taken out at night. Not all people are candidates for implantology, so schedule a consultation today to see if they're the solution for you!

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Wednesday 21 June 2017

Potential Causes of Toothaches: It's Not Always a Cavity

Below is an excerpt from an article found on Colgate.com that was written by Wendy J. Woudstra

No matter how conscientious you are about your oral care routine, at some point in your life you will probably experience the discomfort of a toothache. Though a cavity is the most likely culprit, it is only one of several possible causes of toothaches.

Tooth Sensitivity
If you are experiencing sharp pains when eating or drinking hot or cold foods, it could mean you have a cavity. It may also be a sign that you may have sensitive teeth, either from receding gums or from a thinning of your tooth enamel. While you are waiting for a dental appointment to confirm the cause of your sensitive teeth, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth may help ease the symptoms.

Some Toothaches Are More Severe
If the pain you are experiencing is a sharp, stabbing pain when you bite down on your food, the cause of your toothache could be a cavity or a cracked tooth. If it's a throbbing, incessant pain, on the other hand, you may have an abscessed tooth or an infection that should be taken care of as quickly as possible.

To read the entire article visit Colgate.com.

The remainder of the article details the following:

  • It Might Not Even Be Your Teeth
  • See Your Dentist to Be Sure

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Wednesday 14 June 2017

Dealing With Dry Mouth

Below is an excerpt from an article found on Colgate.com that was written by the ADA

A healthy adult produces about three pints of saliva each day. It's not the kind of thing you would give thought to very often, but that saliva plays a very important role in maintaining your health.

Saliva serves many purposes. It contains enzymes that aid in digestion. Saliva makes it easier to talk, a fact recognized by those who experience stage fright and the associated dry mouth while giving a presentation. 

Saliva also helps prevent tooth decay by washing away food and debris from the teeth and gums. It neutralizes damaging acids, enhances the ability to taste food and makes it easier to swallow. Minerals found in saliva also help repair microscopic tooth decay. 

Everyone, at some time or another, experiences dry mouth, also called "xerostomia." It can happen when you are nervous, upset or under stress or as a result of medication you take or other medical therapies. If dry mouth happens all or most of the time, however, it can be uncomfortable - and it can have serious consequences for your oral health.

Drying irritates the soft tissues in the mouth, which can make them inflamed and more susceptible to infection. Without the cleansing effects of saliva, tooth decay and other oral health problems become much more common. 

Regular dental checkups are important. At each appointment, report any medications you are taking and other information about your health. An updated health history can help identify a cause for mouth dryness. 

To read the entire article visit Colgate.com.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Ask the Dentist by the ADA: 'How Can I Help My Elderly Parent Brush Her Teeth?'

The American Dental Association has created informative videos called Ask the Dentist. Here is their video on: 'How Can I Help My Elderly Parent Brush Her Teeth?'


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS 
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113 
Houston, TX 77079 
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Saturday 10 June 2017

Experience Cleaner Teeth with Ultrasonic Dental Tools

The Cleanest Your Teeth Can Be

You can experience cleaner teeth with less scraping than from regular scaling instruments. The Cavitron Scaler™ is a high-frequency vibration (ultrasonic) tool that enables us to easily remove hard deposits. It works especially well under the gum-line and even into the deep pockets that can form around teeth, which is advantageous in the event that you need gum disease treatments. Many patients report that they experienced less discomfort with the Cavitron Scaler than with traditional instruments. Your teeth will never have felt so clean!

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS 
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113 
Houston, TX 77079 
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Wednesday 7 June 2017

All About Cavities

Below is an excerpt from an article found on Colgate.com that was Reviewed by the Faculty of Columbia University College of Dental Medicine

What's in Your Mouth? 
To understand what happens when your teeth decay, it's helpful to know what's in your mouth naturally. Here are a few of the elements: 

  • Saliva - Your mouth and teeth are constantly bathed in saliva. We never give much thought to our spit, but this fluid is remarkable for what it does to help protect our oral health. Saliva keeps teeth and other parts of your mouth moist and washes away bits of food. Saliva contains minerals that strengthen teeth. It includes buffering agents. They reduce the levels of acid that can decay teeth. Saliva also protects against some viruses and bacteria. 
  • Plaque - Plaque is a soft, gooey substance that sticks to the teeth a bit like jam sticks to a spoon. Like the slime that clings to the bottom of a swimming pool, plaque is a type of biofilm. It contains large numbers of closely packed bacteria, components taken from saliva, and bits of food. Also in the mix are bacterial byproducts and white blood cells. Plaque grows when bacteria attach to the tooth and begin to multiply. Plaque starts forming right after a tooth is cleaned. Within an hour, there's enough to measure. As time goes on, the plaque thickens. Within two to six hours, the plaque teems with bacteria that can cause cavities and periodontal (gum) disease. 
  • Calculus - If left alone long enough, plaque absorbs minerals from saliva. These minerals form crystals and harden into calculus. Then new plaque forms on top of existing calculus. This new layer can also become hard. 
  • Bacteria - We have many types of bacteria in our mouths. Some bacteria are good; they help control destructive bacteria. When it comes to decay, Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacilli are the bacteria that cause the most damage to teeth. 

To read the entire article visit Colgate.com.

The remainder of the article details the following:

  • How Your Teeth Decay
  • Types of Decay
  • Preventing Cavities

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Ask the Dentist by the ADA: 'How Can I Get My Child to Brush Her Teeth?'

The American Dental Association has created informative videos called Ask the Dentist. Here is their video on: 'How Can I Get My Child to Brush Her Teeth?'


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS 
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113 
Houston, TX 77079 
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Saturday 3 June 2017

Smile Makeovers with Cosmetic Imaging

Cosmetic Imaging

As part of your treatment plan, you can see the end result before we start. Our cosmetic imaging program produces computer images of your teeth and gums, which can be shaped, replaced, added to, or lightened, demonstrating your future smile. Now you can see the new you even before the changes start!

Smiles of Memorial
Daniel Dernick, DDS
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113
Houston, TX 77079
(281) 493-0061
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Wednesday 31 May 2017

Ask the Dentist by the ADA: 'How Should I Clean and Store My Toothbrush?'

The American Dental Association has created informative videos called Ask the Dentist. Here is their video on: 'How Should I Clean and Store My Toothbrush?'


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS 
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113 
Houston, TX 77079 
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Saturday 27 May 2017

Regular Dental Care for Seniors

Senior Dental Care is Different

Just as our bodies slow and show the unmistakable signs of age, so do our teeth. Even your fillings, crowns, and bridge work can weaken, crack, or show excessive wear. Fortunately, with regular checkups, we can help you combat the more serious side effects. We offer treatments to reverse the dark staining caused by years of consuming acidic beverages or tobacco or by the buildup of plaque. Simple products are now available to alleviate the reduction of saliva caused by some medications. As we age, the potential hazards of gum disease and root decay increase. Daily cleaning and good nutrition, to maintain healthy gums, is even more critical for us as seniors. If you are experiencing red, irritated gums, bleeding, or your teeth start to feel loose, please contact us.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS 
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113 
Houston, TX 77079 
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Friday 19 May 2017

3 Things All Athletes Should Do for Their Teeth

Below is an excerpt from an article found on MouthHealthy.org

Dentist Dr. Thomas Long has seen firsthand what can happen when “the puck stops here.” In addition to seeing everyday athletes in his private practice, Dr. Long (a former college hockey player himself) is the team dentist for the National Hockey League’s Carolina Hurricanes.

No matter what sport or skill level, Dr. Long says athletes need to take care of their teeth both on and off the field. “Most athletes are careful about what they eat and their workout routine. Part of that routine should include taking care of your mouth and teeth every single day,” he says. "It would be a shame to miss practice or a game because you are in the dentist's office receiving treatment or recovering from a dental surgical procedure.”

Here, Dr. Long shares his playbook for a healthy mouth. 

  • Make a Mouthguard Part of Your Uniform
  • Sideline Sugary Sports Drinks
  • Brush, Floss, Rinse, Repeat

To read the entire article, including more detailed information on the three steps listed in Dr. Long's playbook for a health mouth, please visit MouthHealthy.org.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS 
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113 
Houston, TX 77079 
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Monday 15 May 2017

Ask the Dentist by the ADA: 'Do Bad Teeth Run In the Family?'

The American Dental Association has created informative videos called Ask the Dentist. Here is their video on: 'Do Bad Teeth Run In the Family?'


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Smiles of Memorial
 
 
Daniel Dernick, DDS  
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113  
Houston, TX 77079  
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Friday 12 May 2017

Natural Teeth Whitening: Fact vs. Fiction

Below is an excerpt from an article found on MouthHealthy.org

When it comes to teeth whitening, you may see many different methods featured online and in magazines-from oil pulling to charcoal, and even turmeric. It's no surprise that DIY whitening is top of mind, either. When the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry asked people what they’d most like to improve their smile, the most common response was whiter teeth. 
Healthy smiles come in many shades, though it's tempting to think ingredients in our own kitchens could hold the key to a brighter smile. Still, just because a method is natural doesn’t mean it’s healthy. In fact, DIY whitening can do more harm than good to your teeth. Here’s how:  

Fruits











Fiction:
The approach maintains you can make your teeth whiter and brighter household staples that are naturally acidic (like lemons, oranges, apple cider vinegar), contain digestive enzymes (such as pineapple or mango) and something that is abrasive (like baking soda).
Fact: 
When eaten as usual, fruit is a great choice. However, fruit and vinegar contain acid, and you put your pearly whites at risk when you prolong their contact with your teeth or use them to scrub your teeth because acid can wear away your enamel. Enamel is the thin outer coating of your teeth that protects you from tooth sensitivity and cavities. 

To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.

The remainder of the article reveals fact vs. fiction for the following:

  • Scrubs
  • Spices and Oils
  • Still Interested in Whitening?

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS 
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113 
Houston, TX 77079 
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Thursday 11 May 2017

Comfortable Dental Care

No More "Fat Lips" or Numbness After Treatment!

Have you ever experienced that "fat-lip" feeling that comes from having your mouth numbed before treatment? The sensation can last for hours, making it hard to eat or even talk. Well, we say, NO MORE to "fat lips"! Instead, we offer our patients OraVerse™. After your treatment is complete, we can use OraVerse to reverse the effects of the anesthetic. It reduces the amount of time you're numb in half and then your mouth feels back to normal.

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS  
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113  
Houston, TX 77079  
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com 

Friday 5 May 2017

8 Non-Dairy, Calcium-Rich Foods for Your Teeth

Below is an excerpt from an article found on MouthHealthy.org 

Caring for your teeth means more than brushing and cleaning between them every day. It also means paying attention to the foods you eat. 

One of the most important nutrients for healthy teeth is calcium. Calcium strengthens the hard outer shell of your tooth called enamel, which is your teeth’s defense against erosion and cavities. To protect your teeth and get the 1,000-2,000 mg daily recommended amount of calcium, many people turn to dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt. 

If you’re lactose intolerant or need to limit dairy, there are a number of foods that can still give you the calcium you need. Calcium is found naturally in some foods, while others - such as juice, tofu and even waffles - are now fortified with added calcium. 

Here are some non-dairy options from the USDA Food Composition Database to help keep your body and smile strong.

Orange Juice with Added Calcium

Oranges naturally have a bit of calcium, but many varieties of orange juice (already a top source of vitamin C) now come fortified with calcium. For example, frozen orange juice from concentrate with added calcium contains 1514 mg of calcium per cup. That’s your daily recommendation in just one glass! Juice, however, can be high in sugar, so drink it in moderation.  If your child drinks juice, make sure to serve the recommended, age-appropriate limits.

To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.

The remainder of the article highlights 7 over non-dairy, calcium-rich foods that are good for your teeth:

  • Whey Powder
  • Tofu with Added Calcium
  • Canned Fish
  • Beans
  • Almonds
  • Leafy Green Vegetables
  • Soymilk

Smiles of Memorial  
Daniel Dernick, DDS 
909 Dairy Ashford Rd #113 
Houston, TX 77079 
(281) 493-0061 
SmilesofMemorial.com