Derek Tillman, DMD is a General Dentist practicing at his clinic in Houston, TX. He is a registered provider with the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners, practicing under the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B. Dr. Tillman is dedicated to providing comprehensive General Dentistry care, focusing on preventative care, diagnosing and treating dental diseases, managing tooth replacement needs, performing oral cancer screenings, and collaborating with primary care physicians to address the connection between oral and overall systemic health. He serves all ages and is committed to a collaborative, evidence-based approach to care, ensuring patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions.
General Dentists (DDS or DMD) are primary care providers for oral health. Dr. Tillman, a dentistry practitioner in Houston, TX, understands this crucial role. He emphasizes preventative measures, early detection, and effective treatment plans, recognizing the vital link between oral health and overall well-being. He is dedicated to creating a comfortable and supportive environment for all his patients. Prospective patients should call (713) 799-1400 to confirm if he is currently accepting new patients.
Dr. Derek Tillman provides consultations primarily in English.
A strong patient-provider partnership is the foundation of effective healthcare. Dr. Tillman is committed to being a partner in your health journey, focusing on practical strategies to protect your health and well-being.
Dr. Tillman's comprehensive general dentistry practice prioritizes preventative care and proactive oral health management. He emphasizes a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to diagnose and treat dental issues while integrating oral health into overall systemic well-being. His patient-centered care includes personalized treatment plans, thorough explanations, and a commitment to addressing the unique needs of each individual.
By working together, you and Dr. Tillman can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Sun Life Financial
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Advantage Plus 20 DHMO
- Advantage Plus PPO
- Alliance EPO
- Ameritas
- Ameritas PPO
- Anthem
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
- BlueCare Dental
- BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee
- BlueDental Choice & Choice Plus DPPO
- Cigna
- Coventry Health Care
- DentaBlue DPPO
- Dental Complete DPPO
- Dental PPO
- Dental Prime DPPO
- DentalConnect PPO
- Elite Plus DPPO
- Florida Blue
- Humana
- Humana PPO
- Lincoln Financial Group
- MetLife
- PDP Plus (Preferred Dentist Program) DPPO
- Principal Financial Group
- Total Dental Administrators PPO
- Total Dental Administrators PPO PPO
- Total Dental DPPO
- United Concordia
- United Concordia Dental
- Wellpath Preferred PPO
As your primary healthcare provider, Dr. Tillman offers expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of common health conditions. Common areas of focus include:
- Lip Cancer: Your general dentist is trained to identify potential lip cancer during oral exams, and early detection is key to successful treatment.
- Lichen Planus: Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory skin and mucous membrane condition that can affect the mouth, causing white lacy patches or sores, and your dentist can help manage symptoms and monitor for complications.
- Lockjaw: Lockjaw (tetanus) isn't a dental condition, but a dental injury could increase your chances of getting it; your dentist can help identify potential risks during your regular appointment.
- Dentofacial Anomalies: Dentofacial anomalies refer to misalignments of teeth and jaws; your general dentist plays a key role in identifying these issues and recommending treatment, such as orthodontics.
- Gum Disease: Ignoring gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other health problems; your dentist can diagnose and treat it through cleanings, scaling, and other procedures.
- Tender Gums: Tender gums are a sign of gum irritation or inflammation, often treatable by a general dentist through professional cleaning and guidance on proper oral hygiene.
- Infected Tooth Pulp: When the soft tissue inside your tooth (the pulp) gets infected, it's called an infected tooth pulp, resulting in significant pain; a general dentist can diagnose and treat this infection.
This list represents some of the common conditions treated. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional.
To provide comprehensive and patient-centered care, Dr. Tillman offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and treat various health concerns:
- DIAGNOdent® Laser Cavity Detection: This laser technology helps your dentist find cavities early, so treatment can begin before the decay becomes more extensive and painful.
- Laser Treatment for Dental Fillings: Laser treatment may help create a more comfortable and precise filling procedure, reducing the need for drills in some cases.
- Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP®): This laser procedure, LANAP®, is a treatment for gum disease that aims to preserve as much of your natural teeth and gums as possible.
- Single Visit Root Canals: Instead of multiple appointments, this root canal treatment is designed to complete the procedure, clean and fill the root canals, and protect the tooth in one visit.
- Nightguard: Nightguards are a preventative measure to safeguard your teeth and jaw from the damaging effects of teeth grinding.
- Same-Day Dental Crowns: Damaged or decayed teeth can be restored with a same-day crown, providing a strong, aesthetically pleasing solution within a single visit, improving both your smile and chewing function.
- Non-Surgical Gum Treatment: If you have gingivitis (early gum disease), non-surgical treatment focuses on cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly to stop the infection.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for their professional license in Texas.
Dr. Tillman is dedicated to partnering with patients to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how proactive care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- A patient noticed a suspicious sore on their lip, and their general dentist immediately identified it as a potential concern. Through prompt diagnosis and treatment, the patient successfully managed the lip cancer, ensuring a positive outcome.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, the patient saw significant improvement in the appearance and discomfort of the mouth sores associated with Lichen Planus, leading to a better quality of life.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
2280 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030
Phone: (713) 799-1400
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Here are answers to some common questions about receiving General Dentistry care with Dr. Tillman:
- How is my dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Your oral health is critically linked to your overall health. Bacteria from chronic gum disease can enter your bloodstream, increasing your risk for heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled diabetes. Regular dental care isn't just about your teeth; it's essential for maintaining your overall well-being.
- My medications make my mouth constantly dry. Is this a dental problem?
- Yes, dry mouth (xerostomia) is a common side effect of many medications. Saliva is the body's natural defense against cavities, so dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Tillman can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Over time, jawbone and gum tissue change, sometimes causing dentures to loosen. A relining procedure can reshape the denture for a better fit, or a new denture may be necessary if the current one is significantly worn. A proper fit is crucial for comfortable eating and speaking.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- Healthy gums do not bleed. Bleeding when brushing or flossing is usually the first sign of gum inflammation (gingivitis). This is often reversible with a professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene, but if left untreated, it can progress to more serious gum disease.
- If I need a root canal, will I have to see a specialist?
- General dentists, like Dr. Tillman, often perform root canals. Many can be handled comfortably in our office. For more complex cases, such as a difficult-to-reach molar, a referral to an endodontist may be necessary to ensure the best possible outcome.
- What is the difference between a crown and a filling?
- A filling is like a patch to repair a small area of a damaged tooth. A crown is like a cap or helmet that covers the entire tooth, used when a tooth is significantly damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal, providing extra strength and protection.
- Are dental implants a good option for replacing missing teeth?
- Dental implants are often an excellent long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. They provide a secure foundation for a crown or bridge that looks and feels like a natural tooth, and can help preserve the jawbone.
- How often should I see the dentist, even if nothing hurts?
- Most people benefit from a check-up and cleaning every six months. These visits are essential for preventing problems like tartar buildup, cavities, and gum disease, which can be caught early and treated more easily.
2280 Holcombe Blvd
Houston TX 77030
Phone: (713) 799-1400
Derek Tillman, DMD is regulated by the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Medical Practice Act) in Texas and is licensed by The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1245438142
Registration can typically be verified through The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by kellysearch.com, is for informational purposes to help you connect with local healthcare providers. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the provider named. Healthcare providers like Dr. Derek Tillman are trained to manage a wide range of health concerns. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.