What's your New Year's resolution?

2010 is almost over—and what a year it was! Dr. Tavarez and our staff thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you most looking forward to in 2011? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year, to all our patients, friends, family and all our dental and medical colleagues in Menlo Park, San Carlos, San Francisco and surrounding communities in the Bay Area.

See you all in 2011!

What helps you relax at Tavarez Orthodontics?

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and team understand not everyone is always thrilled about visiting their orthodontist. But here at Tavarez Orthodontics, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. Today, we’d like to know: What is it about our Menlo Park or San Carlos offices that makes you comfortable or puts you or your child at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our courteous staff? Dr. Tavarez herself?

Let us know by posting on Facebook or by giving us a call!

Ask Dr. Tavarez: What's the deal with retainers?

If you recently completed treatment at Tavarez Orthodontics, our entire staff would like to congratulate you, again! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Kathleen Tavarez will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by Dr. Tavarez is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for an entire lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment, please visit our website for instructions and read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth. You may also give us a call at our San Carlos or Menlo Park office!

We hope you all have a great weekend!

Staying connected with Tavarez Orthodontics

At Tavarez Orthodontics, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the innovative orthodontic treatments Dr. Tavarez offers, or our Facebook fan page. As you can probably tell, we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our fan page. For social media to work, we understand that conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks are hugely popular these days, we know they’re unpredictable and ever-changing.

While Dr. Tavarez and our dedicated staff take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please post your thoughts or give us a call! Enjoy your weekend everyone!

Happy Thanksgiving from Tavarez Orthodontics

With Thanksgiving almost upon us, it's a great time to ask ourselves what we're thankful for. With our friends and family around us, we celebrate the blessings given to us in the past year. Our staff at Tavarez Orthodontics thought we'd ask: What are you thankful for this holiday season? Do you have any Thanksgiving wishes you would like to share?

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our entire team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It’s a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat with those braces! If you have any stories or photos to share with us, we’d encourage you to send them along or post them on our Facebook page!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Ask Dr. Tavarez: Can germs really live on my toothbrush?

Great question, thanks! Fall is upon us, and with it comes the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Dr. Kathleen Tavarez will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs can linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing

• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen

• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster

• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

We hope these tips help! Feel free to call us at Tavarez Orthodontics if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook. Have a great weekend, everyone!

Happy Veteran's Day from Tavarez Orthodontics

Happy Veteran's Day! We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the veterans and those currently on active duty who have put their lives on the line for the freedoms we all enjoy.

In celebration of Veteran’s Day, Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our team would like to share a few fun facts about our flag, this national holiday, and our country’s history!

-Veterans Day, a day that was originally called Armistice Day, is a time to thank and honor the men and women who have served in our military.

- President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the official legislation for Veterans Day on June 1, 1954, changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day

-There are 23.2 million veterans in the U.S.

-The flag was first approved by Congress on June 14, 1777

-Each of the flag’s colors signify different American values- red is for valor and zeal, white is for hope, purity, and cleanliness of life, and blue is for heaven, loyalty, sincerity, justice, and truth

-Research by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helped develop the CAT Scan, the cardiac pacemaker, and the “Seattle Foot” to give those hurt the ability to run and jump

-When the flag is displayed next to another flag against a wall, the U.S. flag should be on its own right (on the left side when facing the wall).

-Veterans Day is often confused with Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a time for remembering and honoring the men and women who died while serving our country, or as a result of injuries that incurred in battle. Veterans Day honors and gives thanks to all veterans who served in our military.

-There are five states with over 1 million veterans in their population – California, Florida, Texas, New York and Pennsylvania

Thanks again! We are so thankful for all who have and are currently serving in the U.S. and overseas.

GOOOO Giants!

Our entire staff would like to congratulate the San Francisco Giants for winning the 2010 World Series last night! They won the Series in just 5 games, and we couldn't be more proud of them!

The 411 on Halloween treats, from Tavarez Orthodontics

With Halloween right around the corner, and all that candy making its rounds, it's important to remember that it's still National Orthodontic Health Month! And that means a time to once again remind all our patients to be extra careful when choosing those candies and treats!

All those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats are known to damage teeth, as well as braces! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! Sour and fruity candy, such as Starburst and Skittles, are the worst for your child’s teeth since these candies have a low pH value, which is known to ruin enamel.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends softer treats, such as soft chocolate or peanut butter cups, or melt-in-your-mouth foods. Trick-or-treaters who indulge should make sure they brush and floss between teeth, around brackets and at the gum line. If damage occurs, please call Dr. Tavarez and team as soon as possible.

We hope everyone has a safe and scary Halloween!

Food drive at Tavarez Orthodontics! Donate, and you could win a $100 Best Buy gift card!

Happy middle of the week! Here's our latest contest - now through December 20th, donate a food item at our office, and you'll be entered in our drawing for a chance to win a $100 gift card to Best Buy! All donations will go directly to the Second Harvest Food Bank. THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

What's your story? What made you and your child choose Tavarez Orthodontics?

Located in Menlo Park and San Carlos, California, our practice's top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our professional staff recognize that every patient has different needs, and we pride ourselves in the courteous service we deliver to each person who walks through our doors. Whether you're an adult, adolescent or child, Dr. Tavarez and staff are committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve - a healthy, beautiful one!

Today, we thought we'd ask: What made you choose Tavarez Orthodontics for your (or your child's) orthodontic treatment?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting us for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Facebook page or on our Google listing!

You may write your review for our Menlo Park office here, or here for our San Carlos location.

Tavarez Orthodontics, supporting National Orthodontic Health Month!

Did you know National Orthodontic Health Month? Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have created a helpful website that provides important information on protecting your braces, including tips for trick-or-treaters, braces-friendly recipes, facts about braces and treats you should avoid while wearing braces.

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our staff recommend you check out the AAO's website as well for helpful tips on keeping your braces in tip-top shape. If you have any follow-up questions, please feel free to give us a call, ask us on Facebook or ask Dr. Tavarez during your next visit!

"I have two young sons - when should they visit Tavarez Orthodontics?"

Great question! Dr. Kathleen Tavarez will tell you that braces were originally considered to be best appropriate for teenagers. But these days, we know that kids as old as seven are beginning their orthodontic treatment. Because preadolescent kids are typically not self-conscious, our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists suggest it could be a good idea to start early.

Experts, on the other hand, say it depends on the treatment required. Some children who get braces at an early age end up in a second phase of treatment, and end up having braces well into their teenage years despite starting young.

Most orthodontic treatment typically begins between ages nine and 14, and our friends at the AAO estimate most orthodontic treatment lasts from one to three years, with two years being the average. It’s important, however, that children be screened no later than age seven for Dr. Tavarez to assess what the best age for treatment is.

We hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions about your child’s treatment! Happy Monday!

"Hey, Dr. Tavarez! Which foods should I avoid?"

There are a variety of foods Dr. Kathleen Tavarez wants you to avoid while you're wearing braces. Some foods can occasionally damage braces, but certain foods can bend the wires or even break the brackets on your braces! If you’re wearing braces, you should avoid starch, sugar and gummy foods, as these foods can be difficult to remove during brushing. Foods that are high in sugar and starch tend to cause plaque, cavities and even tooth decay.

Avoid tough meats, hard breads and raw vegetables such as carrots and celery. Before long, you'll be able to bite a cucumber again. But you'll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as you're wearing braces.

Foods you should definitely avoid:
• Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
• Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice, chips
• Sticky foods: caramels, gum
• Hard foods: nuts, candy
• Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots
• Chewing on hard things (for example, pens, pencils or fingernails) can damage the braces. Damaged braces will cause treatment to take longer.

If you have any questions on which foods you should be avoiding and why, we invite you to give us a call or ask our staff during your next visit! We also encourage you to check out this helpful article on eating with braces, courtesy of Parenthood.com.

Enjoy the weekend :)

September is National Childhood Injury Prevention Month!

This month, our staff at Tavarez Orthodontics want you to be extra careful with your braces and appliances. After all, September marks the start of fall sports and an increased risk to mouth injuries. September also happens to be National Childhood Injury Prevention Month, and Dr. Kathleen Tavarez thought it’d be a good idea to share a few sobering facts about sports and facial injuries, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists.

*More than half of the seven million sports and recreation-related injuries that occur each year are sustained by youth between ages 5 and 24. Collision and contact sports have higher injury rates—baseball, soccer, basketball and football account for about 80% of all sports-related emergency room visits, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

*Sixty-seven percent of parents say their child does not wear a mouth guard, yet, 70 percent say their biggest fear when their child plays is that they will get hurt.

*Of the parents whose children do not wear a mouth guard, 84 percent say it's because the league or coach does not require it, according to the AAO.

*The average high school baseball pitcher can throw a fast ball between 75-to-85 miles per hour. This compares to being hit in the mouth by a speeding car!

We hope this helps you remember to wear a mouth guard and other forms of protective gear when participating in fall sports! We encourage you to give us a call if you have any questions about mouth protection! We hope you have a great weekend!

When should you call Tavarez Orthodontics?

Great question. Our good friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Dr. Kathleen Tavarez. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us at either our Menlo Park or San Carlos office:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call as soon as possible! Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend!!

"I'm 36 - am I just 'too old' for braces"?

Absolutely not.

In fact, our staff at Tavarez Orthodontics read a fascinating statistic recently: the number of adults getting braces has actually jumped 24 percent since 1996! It's true that braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: people want to look and feel great.

In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing—wisely—to invest in orthodontics. Treatment with Menlo Park and San Carlos orthodontist Dr. Kathleen Tavarez can be successful at any age, and we know that adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful and healthy smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Tavarez would love to have you visit for a consultation! Please give us a call to set one up!

Back to school with Tavarez Orthodontics

Now that many of our patients at Tavarez Orthodontics are back in school (or are getting ready to head back), our staff wants to remind all of our patients about the importance of scheduling appointments in advance. With school, clubs, sports and family functions to consider in the fall, we know that it can be challenging to find time to visit Tavarez Orthodontics. In order to accommodate all of our patients' busy schedules, it is important that you plan ahead for your appointments so that Dr. Tavarez is able to provide you with an appointment time that is convenient for you.

As always, please remember to give us advance notice if you are unable to make an appointment. If we receive enough notice, we might be able to schedule another patient for that time. Feel free to give us a call at 650-592-3111 if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your fall appointment.

And... don't forget about our new patient contest! From now through October 11th, come to our office and GUESS HOW MANY PENCILS are in the jar!

How many pencils are in the jar?

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our staff are proud to announce our new patient contest! From now through October 11, come to our office and GUESS HOW MANY PENCILS are in the jar!

Guess the correct amount and you can win a great prize of a $75 gift card to Target!

Two winners will be chosen to win!

Contest ends October 11, 2010. Good luck!

Thanks to Invisalign at Tavarez Orthodontics, parents can have an amazing smile, too!

Hey parents! Focusing on your children's teeth, bite and oral health so much that you're neglecting your own lately? If you've been thinking about having your own set of perfectly-aligned teeth, Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our staff at Tavarez Orthodontics would love to help! Dr. Tavarez has been named an Invisalign Elite Premier Provider, representing the top 1% of North American practitioners, and is specially trained to offer this treatment in San Carlos and Menlo Park.

Invisalign consists of a set of clear aligners that are molded to fit your teeth, and are to be worn all day and night, except for meals, brushing, and flossing – when you can easily slip them out to make eating and cleaning a snap!

Because they're clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and no one will know it but you! Please give us a call at 650-489-4125 to set up a consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

We hope you're having a great summer so far!

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez, reminding you to use your mouth guard this summer

With summer already halfway over, Dr. Tavarez and our staff would like to remind our athletes in treatment to take care of both your mouth and appliances while participating in contact sports (and non-contact sports as well). Remember: Only by using a mouth guard can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. And don't forget to ask us for a mouth guard - Dr. Tavarez will provide one for anyone in active treatment! Have a great rest of the summer! Be sure to post your summer adventures on our Facebook page!

"Hey, Dr. Tavarez! What's so cool about having braces?"

Ask us, and our staff at Tavarez Orthodontics will always tell you that braces are cool, hip and pretty fun nowadays. In fact, these were among the findings of a nationwide survey this year of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies such as Invisalign and invisible ceramic braces, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Serena Williams and Dakota Fanning, to name a few—sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s kids.

The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists for February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, found 86 percent of moms reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent of moms also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Has your child visited Tavarez Orthodontics for a consultation? If not, please give us a call and let Dr. Kathleen Tavarez help you or your child begin the journey to a beautiful new smile this summer!

5 helpful summer travel tips, from Tavarez Orthodontics

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and team know that most folks take a vacation during the summer. Most, however, often forget to pack the most important of things. Recently, our staff at Tavarez Orthodontics came across an interesting article from ParentsAsk.com that outlined five important tips for summer travel with children. We strongly encourage you to give this article a read if you’re heading out with the family this summer. Here are even more tips you can use to ensure your vacation packing – and the traveling itself – goes as smooth as possible!

Happy traveling!

Your turn! From Tavarez Orthodontics

By now, you're probably familiar with our weekly blog process: Each week, our creative team at Tavarez Orthodontics write about important topics pertinent to orthodontic treatment care and your well-being, including innovative orthodontic techniques Dr. Kathleen Tavarez offers.

Today, however, we thought we’d step back and ask you, our patience readers: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Menlo Park and San Carlos orthodontist Dr. Tavarez for a while now? Let us know by posting here or on our interactive Facebook fan page!

We hope you have a great rest of the week and enjoy your Fourth of July celebrations!

Tavarez Orthodontics want to know: what's on your reading list this summer?

Two weeks ago, you might recall, our team at Tavarez Orthodontics asked you, our great patients, about your summer 2010 plans.

With summer finally here, some of us have been thinking increasingly about the importance of reading during the summer. Reading during the summer is a vital step in being prepared for classes in the fall and maintaining your skill level. Also, a new study has found that the number of books in the home might predict a child's educational future.

Out of ideas for great summer reads? Ask our staff for suggestions, and we'll be more than happy to provide a few titles for you. You may also ask a local librarian in San Carlos, Menlo Park or San Francisco for some ideas or check out various summer reading lists that we came across this week, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading! We're interested in YOUR suggestions!

What are our patients saying about Tavarez Orthodontics?

Tavarez Orthodontics, serving Menlo Park, San Carlos and surrounding areas in the San Francisco Bay area, has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and team!

"I love that she is available!! I had what I thought was an emergency - the office was closed - but I waited just a few minutes & Dr. Tavarez came to the phone!!" ~ Linda W.

"Everyone in the office is very nice!" ~ Kara O.

"I like the accessibility of office, staff and orthodontist." ~ Eleanor R.

"Easy to schedule appointments, close to my house, the entire staff is very nice." ~ Lauren B.

"The consultation was nice, the Doctor and staff were nice. I am getting exactly what I want for my teeth." ~ Lynne B.

Please feel free to contribute your own thoughts about our office!

Dr. Tavarez and team want to know: what are your summer plans?

As the school year comes to a close for many of our patients at Tavarez Orthodontics, the days get longer and the California sun begins to heat up, there’s no better way to beat the heat than jump into a pool or cool off under the shade with a nice beverage.

For most of our patients, summer brings a chance to get away from it all and escape everyday life, if only for a week or two. For others, it means a season of relaxation and relief from homework and studying, among other activities.

How about you?

What are your summer plans? Do you have any interesting plans for a summer vacation? Does your family have a reunion planned? Our staff (as well as Dr. Tavarez) would be interested in how you are all spending your summer vacations. If you’re headed to an exotic destination, awesome! If you're going camping, we'd like to hear about it! Going to a Giants game? Tell us! Even if you're staying at home here in northern California and hanging out, let us know!

Please feel free to share your summer plans and adventures with Dr. Tavarez and staff on our Facebook page as the summer rolls along!

Summer Fun Contest at Tavarez Orthodontics!

We're excited to tell you about our latest patient contest! Our "Summer Fun Contest" is now up and running through August 2.

Here's how it works: Take a picture of you wearing your Tavarez Orthodontics T-shirt somewhere fun or far away, and you will be entered in our “Looking Good” summer contest!

Our team will be judging photos based on two categories: 1. Most Adventurous and 2. The Funniest.

Two winners will win a Flip Mino HD Camcorder!!

You can submit your photos directly to our Facebook fan page or email them to Tanya at tanya@drtavarez.com. You may, of course, snail mail you photos to us . Please make sure to include your name & phone number when sending in your picture by Monday, August 2nd!

Good luck and SAFE TRAVELS everybody!!

Tavarez Orthodontics, helping combat the myths about braces

Trust us when we say Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our team are well-aware that there are a lot of myths flying around the topic of orthodontics (and braces in general) these days. But, before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts first! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of braces, and we encourage you to check them out before settling for rumors about braces!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment at Tavarez Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call at either of our convenient offices! Happy Wednesday!

Tavarez Orthodontics, wishing you a safe, relaxing and memorable Memorial Day weekend!

Memorial Day weekend, just a day away, is a time for Americans everywhere to celebrate freedom and honor the servicemen and women who have paid for the freedoms we continue to cherish.

For many folks (and our patients) in Menlo Park, San Carlos and surrounding communities around San Francisco, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the classroom or office spells sweet relief. At Tavarez Orthodontics, we know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, Memorial Day means a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories is on the way.

What about you? Whether you're headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, or hitting the great Californian open roads, our entire team would like to hear all about it!

We hope you have a great Memorial Day weekend!!

The importance of dairy, from Dr. Tavarez

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and team want to know: is dairy a big part of your overall diet? If not, it probably should be. A 2008 study revealed that regular consumption of dairy, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease).

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected in studies to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and, of course, osteoporosis.

Results of the study show that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease. Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite and sip, you are preserving your teeth for great oral health and a lifetime of smiles!

For more information about the importance of including dairy foods in your diet or gum disease, we invite you to give us a call at either or San Carlos or Menlo Park office. Have a great weekend!

Share your experience at Tavarez Orthodontics with the world!

Located in Menlo Park and San Carlos, California, our top priority at Tavarez Orthodontics is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. We utilize the latest technological advances in the industry and are committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve: a healthy, beautiful one.

Whether you've visited Tavarez Orthodontics for a week, months or years, Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and team would love to hear your feedback about the way we run our office. There are lots of ways you may share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Dr. Tavarez and staff create more beautiful smiles here in Menlo Park and San Carlos. We look forward to reading your reviews!

Wishing you a happy Mother's Day, from Tavarez Orthodontics

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our entire team at Tavarez Orthodontics would like to take this time thank all the wonderful moms out there who bring their kids to our office and always have a smile on their face. We appreciate you all! Happy Mother's Day Week and upcoming Mother’s Day!

And have you heard about our Mother's Day Contest? Correctly guess the year that the “Mom” movie was released ... and you could win a Spa Day for your Mom! Just click here to access the movie questions and GOOD LUCK!

Happy Wednesday!

"Hey Dr. Tavarez! Who benefits from braces?"

At Tavarez Orthodontics, we know that braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! In fact, Dr. Kathleen Tavarez will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best outcome in your treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action to address it early can spare a lot of treatment - and expense - down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! At Tavarez Orthodontics, you’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment for a consultation with Dr. Tavarez and find out how adult orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

Mother's Day Contest at Tavarez Orthodontics!

We're currently running our Mother's Day Contest! Here's how it works: Correctly guess the year that the “Mom” movie was released ... and you could win a Spa Day for your Mom! Just click here to access the movie questions and GOOD LUCK!

Before we forget, we wanted to congratulate Abigail C. & Xavi B. - they are the lucky winners of our “Guess the Lips” Contest! Both winners received $50.00 cash! We love our patients!

Celebrities get braces, too! From Dr. Tavarez

It's true. Back in 2002, one of Hollywood's biggest stars - Tom Cruise - had braces. During this time, Cruise was 40 years old and filmed the films Minority Report, Austin Powers in Goldmember and the Last Samurai. Just check out his smile in Jerry Maguire, Rain Man or The Firm and compare to the post-braces Cruise in Valkyrie or Tropic Thunder. Even movie stars need to look their best for the silver screen, and it wouldn't be possible without orthodontists like Dr. Kathleen Tavarez.

In fact, plenty of Hollywood stars have had orthodontic treatment. Check out this list of famous names, courtesy of ABC News. If you’ve thought about getting the perfect smile you’ve always wanted, please give Tavarez Orthodontics a call.

The benefits of smiling, from Dr. Tavarez

Good news to report this Monday afternoon! People with big, happy smiles may actually live than those who don’t, according to a new study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Dr. Kathleen Tavarez known for a long time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers there used information from the Baseball Register to look at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball before 1950. The players' photos were enlarged, and a rating of their smile intensity was made (big smile, no smile or partial smile).

The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then corrected their analysis to account for other factors associated with longevity, such as body mass index, or BMI, career length and college attendance.

The researchers found that players who weren't smiling died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting Tavarez Orthodontics regularly? If not, give us a call!

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez, helping you save face this spring

You may remember that in February, Dr. Tavarez and team discussed the importance of wearing a mouth guard while participating in sports activities. Today, we thought we'd follow-up by sharing a helpful video about the benefits of protecting your mouth. After all, April - which is only a day away - happens to be National Facial Protection Month. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

Above is a helpful video from our friends at the AAO about staying safe on the ball field this spring. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of the tips offered in the video, please contact Tavarez Orthodontics. And remember to have fun and stay safe!

Invisalign Elite Premier Provider in Menlo Park and San Carlos, Calif.

While you probably know that we offer Invisalign treatment at Tavarez Orthodontics, did you know that Dr. Kathleen Tavarez is an Invisalign Elite Premier Provider?

You're probably thinking: Ok, so what does this certification mean?

Dr. Tavarez is specially trained in the Invisalign system of clear removable aligners, and has had extensive experience working with the system with his patients. Elite Premier Providers like Dr. Tavarez have achieved the highest level of experience with the Invisalign system, and are the top 1% of Invisalign providers in the entire country!

If you are considering the Invisalign system, give us a call at our convenient Menlo Park or San Carlos locations to schedule a consultation. During this appointment we can work with you to determine if the Invisalign system is right for you!

Getting social with Tavarez Orthodontics

At Tavarez Orthodontics, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the innovative orthodontic treatments Dr. Tavarez offers, or our Facebook fan page. As you can probably tell, we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our fan page. For social media to work, we understand that conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks are hugely popular these days, we know they’re unpredictable and ever-changing.

While Dr. Tavarez and our dedicated staff take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please post your thoughts or give us a call at 650-329-9600!

Ask Dr. Tavarez: Am I too old for braces?

Who’s afraid of “metal mouth” and the appearance of braces? Not adults, apparently. Recently, our staff at Tavarez Orthodontics read a fascinating statistic: adults getting braces has jumped 24 percent from just 14 years ago! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: cosmetics. In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing to invest in orthodontics. Did you know one of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21? Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Kathleen Tavarez can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Tavarez would love to have you visit for a consultation. Give us a call to set one up!

Happy Thursday!

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez, helping distinguish the myths and facts about orthodontics

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez knows there are quite a few myths about orthodontists circulating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, she thinks you should get the facts! Our team at Tavarez Orthodontics came across a great site that helps set the record straight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Tavarez Othodontics, feel free to give us a call.

Tavarez Orthodontics want to know: What are you up to in February?

It may still be a bit chilly out there, but the fact remains: we’re only a month away from spring! Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our team at Tavarez Orthodontics want to know: What are you doing in February? What have you accomplished so far this year? Are you keeping up with your New Year’s Resolution? Got any exciting spring break plans?

If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share with us, please send them our way or call one of our offices and ask how! Have a great weekend!

At Tavarez Orthodontics, easy access to your account information

Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds really convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at Tavarez Orthodontics enjoy 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, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages! Just see what some of Dr. Tavarez‘s patients are saying about this innovative service:

"I could look at the progress of my son's teeth with comparing all the pictures and x-rays taken over the years!" ~ Jack B.

"Financials, nice to see the balance. Also nice to see & confirm next appointments." ~ Andrea S.

"Immediate access to information." ~ Grace C.

"It seems that Dr. Tavarez's office is far more advanced than other offices when it comes to using technology to further her practice." ~ Monika G.

You, too, may 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!

Ask Dr. Tavarez: When is my child due for a checkup?

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to visit Tavarez Orthodontics, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

Ok, what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Tavarez to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or what Dr. Tavarez calls “bad bite.” Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call at Tavarez Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

Tackling sports injuries with Dr. Kathleen Tavarez

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s almost springtime! The spring months, however, bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of damaging your precious mouth and pearly whites. If you play sports such as baseball and soccer, it's important that you consult Dr. Tavarez for special precautions. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing contact spring sports. In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, please schedule an appointment with Tavarez Orthodontics.

Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Tavarez Orthodontics.

Dr. Tavarez wants to know: What do you love about our community?

Tavarez Orthodontics, located in Menlo Park and San Carlos, and serving surrounding communities, is situated around some pretty special neighborhoods here on the San Francisco Peninsula. Each is unique with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our amazing patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Tavarez and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Menlo Park, San Carlos or our great community? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite northern California getaway? Do you love the unique weather we get year-round?

Please feel free to share some tips about your favorite local hang-outs here in town, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods.” And, who knows, Dr. Tavarez and team just might post your response on our social networks!

Enjoy your weekend!

Ask Dr. Kathleen Tavarez: Who benefits from Invisalign® treatment?

Part of what makes Invisalign "work" is that it's customizable for pretty much anyone. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing Dr. Tavarez does is take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, Dr. Tavarez and our team look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Tavarez is a certified Invisalign provider, and has been named an Invisalign Elite Premier Provider, representing the top 1% of North American practitioners.

If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, give us a call!

Have a great weekend!

What are patients saying about Tavarez Orthodontics?

Last week, we asked you, our amazing patients, what you most liked about Tavarez Orthodontics. We received some pretty great testimonials, and thought we'd share a few with you today. We just love getting testimonials from our patients, so don't hesitate to write a review!

"I love the efficiency and professionalism of the offices. Dr. Tavarez runs a practice that surpasses any I've ever experienced. I have utmost confidence in the care I'm given and the knowledge of everyone involved." ~ Pat M.

"She is wonderful and does not push unnecessary procedures. Her staff is always friendly and helpful. She has an office in San Carlos near my home and in Menlo Park, near my work. I have two offices that easily accessible for appointments. I can't lose!" ~ Kelly J.

"She is the Best, very nice, very clean, and her office should win an award,for everything, being clean, friendly and on time." ~ Rebecca P.

"Treated and remembered as a family- Friendly staff." ~ Veronica C.

What do you love about Tavarez Orthodontics?

From your very first visit to Tavarez Orthodontics, Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and her dedicated team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Tavarez? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Do you love your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback on our networks. Or, you can tell us by giving us a call!