Say hello to Dr. Daniel J. Lyu of Cereus Dental Care in Tempe, Arizona! Dr. Lyu focuses on providing comprehensive care to his patients but is passionate about keeping up with the latest developments in dentistry and has focused his continuing education on implantology and esthetics dental restorations.
Dr. Lyu earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from New York University College of Dentistry and completed a General Practice Residency at Lincoln Medical Center. In the fall of 2020, Dr. Lyu moved from Westchester, NY to Arizona to be closer to family and has been working in his Tempe office since 2021.
In his spare time, Dr. Lyu enjoys golfing, fishing and spending time outside with his wife and two children.
What made you decide to become a dentist?
I decided to become a dentist at an early age, probably 8 or 9 years old. I had an impactful visit to the dentist, and I was fascinated by all the instruments and materials that were used, and the sensation of anesthesia. The sound of amalgam being compacted is very unique. Going into college, I knew that I wanted to work in healthcare and help patients and being exposed to dentistry early on gave me additional information to know that was where I wanted to focus. My parents were both dental technicians, and I would “work” in their laboratory during my summers.
Do you brush and floss as much as you recommend?
Of course! I’m brushing at least twice daily, for a minimum of 2 minutes, and flossing daily. I typically use the single flossers with a handle, because it’s difficult for me to floss my molars, and I angle the flosser around the corners of the teeth so I’m thoroughly cleaning all surfaces.
What’s your favorite toothpaste flavor?
I prefer a sweeter taste with a hint of mint! Some toothpastes contain xylitol, which has a sweet taste.
Electric or manual toothbrush?
Definitely electric all the way. It’s so much more efficient, why wouldn’t you want a cleaner mouth in the same amount of time?
Which celebrity has the best smile and why?
Julia Roberts, because she has such a full smile! I believe that we can even see her 3rd molars!
If you could tell patients to stop doing one thing, what would it be?
It would be to stop using anything harder than a soft toothbrush, as it may cause damage and wear to your teeth.
What’s the best dental advice you’ve ever received?
Treat the patient, as the oral cavity is part of a person. Sometimes, we can have “tunnel vision” and just focus on the teeth and treatment.
What’s the best thing about being a Delta Dental dentist?
Delta Dental being the largest dental insurance company allows me to tap into the largest network of potential patients!
What’s your favorite dentist joke?
What do you call a bear with no teeth? A gummy bear! My second favorite: The dentist told his patient to open wider. “My goodness!” the dentist said. “You’ve got the biggest cavity I’ve seen, the biggest cavity I’ve seen.” “Ok,” said the patient, “but I’m scared enough. Do you need to repeat yourself?” “I didn’t,” said the dentist. “That was the echo.”
Do you have any funny stories from the dentist’s chair?
I’ll have to get back to you on this one…
What are three things that always make you smile?
My wife, Jennifer, my two children, Alexander and Olivia, and our new addition, Pepper our poodle!
You have a passion for keeping up with the latest developments in dentistry. Why is it important to continue to educate yourself and keep learning?
If you’re not keeping up, you’re falling behind. I want to provide the best dentistry that I can for my patients, and that means attending CE courses and reading journals, to expand and improve my skill set.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three things would you bring with you?
I’ve been watching some of these survival reality shows, so I would want a fire starter, an axe, and a fishing net. Thrive not just survive!
