Meet the doctors
Nicole Gordon, DDS
Born and raised in South Lake Tahoe
Dr. Nicole Gordon became interested in dentistry at the age of 16 when she began working in a local dental office. She knew at that time that dentistry was her career path. After graduating South Tahoe High School, she attended the University of San Francisco for her undergraduate degree. After college Dr. Gordon continued her education at New York University College of Dentistry. She graduated from dental school in 2005. Dr. Gordon worked in private practice in the bay area before returning to the Lake Tahoe Basin. She worked in the dental clinic on the Washoe Tribal Reservation for 6 years and has been in private practice in South Lake Tahoe ever since.
Dr. Gordon is committed to clinical and professional excellence in every aspect of her practice. She believes in the value of continuing education and keeping up with the latest technology to offer the gold standard of care to her patients. Her passions in dentistry include esthetics and full-mouth reconstruction. Dr. Gordon wants to partner with her patients to address any oral health needs that they may have as well as achieve a beautiful smile. Getting to know her patients and contributing to their health and wellbeing is Dr. Gordon’s favorite part of dentistry.
Derek Appelblatt, DDS
Born and raised in Sacramento
Dr. Appelblatt embodies a profound commitment to dental excellence. His journey began at UC Santa Cruz, where he earned a B.S. in Biology. Fueled by his passion for oral health, he secured a coveted spot at the distinguished University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry. Graduating with honors in 2018, Dr. Appelblatt's achievements extended beyond academics. As Vice President of the student body, he led by example and engaged in numerous outreach initiatives. His accolades in the realm of human anatomy underscore his dedication to the craft. Notably, he was entrusted with the facilitation of continuing education courses centered on intricate dissections of the head, neck, and face - an experience etched indelibly in his memory.
Following his coastal tenure, Dr. A recognized the call for a more elevated professional landscape. Thus, he embraced the opportunity to join Dr. Nicole Gordon and her esteemed dental team in South Lake Tahoe. Over the years, he has found a true sense of belonging, a sentiment that surpasses any previous affiliations. The impending venture of a business partnership with Dr. Gordon reflects their shared vision. Driven by a collective aspiration, they aim to infuse their practice with state-of-the-art dental technology, fortifying their capacity to serve the community and patients alike.
Central to Dr. Appelblatt's practice philosophy is his dedication to biomimetic adhesive dentistry, characterized by a judicious approach. In practical terms, this approach prioritizes the preservation of a patient's natural tooth structure whenever possible. Selecting materials that mirror the innate qualities of original teeth, he orchestrates harmonious restorations. His pursuit of knowledge is ceaseless, exemplified by his commitment to diverse avenues of continuing education. Presently, his scope encompasses dental sleep medicine and orthodontics, indicative of his unwavering pursuit of comprehensive patient care.
Beyond the confines of his professional domain, Dr. A thrives on an active lifestyle harmonized with the splendor of Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada. A fervent explorer, he immerses himself in the region's multifaceted recreational offerings. Recent times have seen him captivated by speedflying - an exhilarating sport akin to paragliding, characterized by breathtaking speeds reminiscent of wingsuit pilots. His gratitude for physical vitality resonates profoundly as he partakes in the abundance of experiences that Tahoe's lifestyle affords.
Dr. Appelblatt's journey is a testament to unwavering commitment, relentless pursuit of knowledge, and a harmonious blend of professional acumen and personal passion. His presence enriches the dental landscape, promising a future defined by cutting-edge care and an indomitable spirit of exploration.
