The dog days of summer are almost upon us, and what better time for us to ask our patients’ summer plans!

Whether you’re going camping, hitting America’s great open roads, visiting our nation’s capitol, or just staying in town and hanging out, we want to know how you’re all going to spending your summer! Please feel free to share your summer plans and experiences with us below or on our Facebook page!

We look forward to reading all about your summer adventures!

As the summer rapidly approaches, we strive to continue writing about important topics related to orthodontics and your treatment at our office.

To help us continue doing that through the course of the spring and summer, we would like to ask you, our readers: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing and exciting field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the spring and summer months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask us for a while? Let us know by posting here, on our Facebook page, or during your next adjustment appointment.

We look forward to hearing from you!

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!

We will be rolling out our new Facebook Timeline page soon and would love for you to check it out! You’ll find all the useful information that was there before, but now in a fun, new layout.

When you connect with us on facebook you’ll be able to check out photos of our office, find out about new events and contests, or you can even leave a note about how much you enjoyed your visit at our office. We love hearing your feedback to make our practice serve you and your family even better. To make life even easier, if you “Like” us on Facebook, you’ll automatically receive updates from our office right on your own news feed!

Monday marks Presidents’ Day, a day known for celebrating of both George Washington’s and Abraham Lincoln’s combined Birthdays. Presidents’ Day was created in 1971, when President Richard Nixon combined the birthdays of two of our most well-known presidents into one single federal holiday. Presidents’ Day also marks a hard-earned day off from work and school for a lot of our patients at Tavarez Orthodontics.

Here are a few fun facts about our nation’s presidents:

*Abraham Lincoln, our 16th president, carried letters, bills and notes in his tall stovepipe hat.

*George Washington is the first president to be featured on a postage stamp.

*Ronald Reagan, our 40th president, broke the so-called “20-year curse,” in which every president elected in a year ending in 0 died in office.

*Harry S. Truman was the first president to have his Inauguration and speeches televised.

*Abraham Lincoln was the tallest of the U.S. presidents measuring 6’ 4” tall.

*Virginia is the birthplace of more United States presidents than any other state, followed by Ohio and Massachusetts.

Your smile is totally unique, so the time you’ll need to spend undergoing orthodontic treatment will also be unique. Generally, orthodontic treatment will take about two years, and this is for good reason. During this time, your teeth will slowly move into their desired positions, leaving you with a great smile with as little discomfort as possible. Rushing treatment can result in a less than perfect smile with a greater chance of tooth movement after your treatment is complete. At Tavarez Orthodontics, we don’t want to waste your time with treatment that won’t retain your smile for the rest of your life.

Of course, treatment time will vary depending on your specific situation. Very minor tooth movement may only take a few months to correct, while serious malocclusion (poor bite) may need more than two years to correct. Only Dr. Kathleen Tavarez will be able to accurately estimate the time your treatment will take. But trust us—it’ll all be worth it in the end!

Has your child or teen visited Tavarez Orthodontics for an orthodontic consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help him or her begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Did you know February is American Heart Month? It’s a great time to take notice of the health of your heart, says Dr. Kathleen Tavarez . Cardiovascular disease remains American's number one killer, according to the American Heart Association. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care.

Visiting our office on a regular basis can help prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages. And because people with dental insurance are more likely to visit their dentist when they should, a healthy mouth begins with a visit to Tavarez Orthodontics. In observance of Heart Month, Dr. Kathleen Tavarez says it’s also important to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25). If you have any questions about heart health, or about your treatment at Tavarez Orthodontics, please give us a call today.

At Tavarez Orthodontics, February is National Children's Dental Health Month, and Dr. Tavarez and team thought we’d promote good oral hygiene among our patients with a few tips and tricks, courtesy of the American Dental Association.

• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.

• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and insert it between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.

• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as cheese, fruits and vegetables and avoid crunchy, sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, be sure to brush after doing so.

• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these drinks create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. If you’re going to drink one of these beverages, don’t sip on it throughout the day. Rather, drink it and then brush your teeth.

• Regular dental visits: in addition to seeing our team at our Menlo Park or San Carlos, CA office during your orthodontic treatment, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months.

National Dental Health Month aims to increase awareness about the importance of our patients' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment at Tavarez Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

The fact is, most of us aren’t born with a red carpet smile. And that’s where Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our team can help. Of course, orthodontic treatment help make your teeth stay strong, healthy and become perfectly-aligned. But did you know you can get the beautiful straight teeth you’ve always wanted — without braces?

Our team at Tavarez Orthodontics are proud to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth called Invisalign, which uses a series of invisible, removable and comfortable aligners that no one can tell you’re wearing. So, you can smile more during treatment as well as after. Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. And no metal and wires usually means you spend less time at our office getting adjustments. Invisalign also allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, we would love to have you in for a visit. Please give us a call to set one up! A complimentary consultation with Dr. Tavarez can determine if Invisalign is right for you. See you soon!

In the 1950s and ’60s, civil rights champion Martin Luther King, Jr. recognized the need to bring about social justice, strengthen America’s communities and move the nation forward. Today, thousands of people of all ages and races across California spent their day building, giving and renovating our communities to help celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Did you have the day off? If so, what did you do to help your local community?

We’d love to know about your activities and events this MLK Jr. Day. If you have any video or pictures you’d like to share, please share them on our Facebook page!

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our entire team are proud of your work in our community! Happy MLK Day!

Thank you for taking the time to visit our blog. Please check back often for weekly updates on fun and exciting events happening at our office, important and interesting information about the orthodontic industry, and the latest news about our practice.

Feel free to leave a comment or question for our doctor and staff – we hope this will be a valuable resource for our patients, their families, and friends!

At Tavarez Orthodontics, we know having an attractive smile puts a spring in your step—or two—as well as increases your self-confidence, no matter if you’re 14 or in your late forties. Smiling not only makes people happy and puts them in a good mood, doing it often can even help you live longer, according to previous studies!

If you’ve been hiding your smile because you have crooked teeth or gaps between your teeth, it’s time to consider orthodontic treatment at Tavarez Orthodontics. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn how quickly and efficiently today’s most advanced correction techniques can straighten your smile!

Don’t hide your smile any longer—give us a call today to schedule yours or your child’s orthodontic consultation at our Menlo Park and San Carlos, CA office. See you soon!

At Tavarez Orthodontics, the New Year is a time to look back to the past, and more importantly, forward to the coming year. Our wish is that our patients continue to keep their teeth healthy, as well as wear their rubber bands, headgear and appliances as prescribed during their treatment.

We look forward to meeting those patients who are planning to begin their orthodontic treatment this year - we think it's a great resolution!

Happy New Year from all of us at Tavarez Orthodontics!

At Tavarez Orthodontics, we pride ourselves in the courteous service we deliver to each person who walks through our doors; it’s about connecting with our patients on a personal level to create a uniquely personal orthodontic experience. Even if you only see Dr. Tavarez for your appointment on a regular basis, did you know that you can now connect with us Facebook?

We invite you to “like” us at Facebook.com/TavarezOrthodontics. There, we share office news and updates on our Fan Page, so check it out! By Liking our page, you will receive updates, contest information and more from our office automatically in your news feed!

See you on Facebook and have a great rest of the week!

Happy Holidays from all of us at Tavarez Orthodontics!

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as Dr. Tavarez and our team reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2012? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

Happy Holidays from our entire team at Tavarez Orthodontics!

At Tavarez Orthodontics, we know maintaining a healthy diet over the holiday season can prove a difficult task. After all, who can resist the tasty treats of Christmas? With grandma and everybody else offering you candy, chocolate logs or Christmas pudding, you just can’t say “I’ll pass” each time. But trouble lurks: every time you chow down on that chocolate or candy, the bacteria in your mouth have a feast on the sugar—at your expense.  The sugar turns into acid, and the acid eats away at the enamel on your teeth and between your braces. Then, you start getting cavities.

Instead, try pumpkin pie, marvelous molasses cookies, wonderful waffles or other braces-friendly recipes, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO, and “The Braces Cookbook” by Pamela Waterman.

If you must indulge in chocolaty goodness this Christmas or holiday season, remember to brush your teeth after eating sugary treats. Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

Happy Holidays!

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.

We hope you had a great Thanksgiving! At Tavarez Orthodontics, our top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. We know having a healthy, beautiful smile is important!

And speaking of smiling, in a poll conducted by Glamour Magazine earlier this year, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?”

Well, 44 percent of folks out there chose teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of one’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

Whether you're an adult, adolescent or child, our knowledgeable doctor and staff are committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve - a healthy, beautiful one!
Call our Menlo Park and San Carlos, CA offices today to schedule an appointment.

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!

With fall sports close to wrapping up and winter sports right around the corner, many patients here at Tavarez Orthodontics will once again pick up the ball, bring the cleats out of seasonal retirement and hit the fields for the return of sports action! During this time, however, Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this fall and winter, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as basketball, wrestling and hockey
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps! Dr. Tavarez and team will tell you protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our office or ask us on Facebook. Stay safe!

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.

Thanks to all of you who have given us so much.

- Tavarez Orthodontics.

With Halloween here, 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!

At Tavarez Orthodontics, we know true orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call our Menlo Park, San Carlos or Atherton California orthodontic offices when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can't take care of yourself. We'll be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you schedule an appointment with our office. When working with your appliances, you need to know the names of the parts of your appliances so you are able to identify what part is broken or out of place. After alleviating your discomfort, it is very important that you still call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem. Allowing your appliance to remain damaged for an extended period of time may result in disruptions in your treatment plan. Click here for instructions or give us a call to learn more! We hope you're off to a great Halloween season!

Check out these fun facts about National Orthodontic Health Month!

Over one hundred years ago, in 1900, Dr. Edward H. Angle and a dozen colleagues came together to establish dentistry's first specialty. The formation of Dr. Angle's select group marks the genesis of the organization known as the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and the specialty today known as orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.

It used to take guts (literally) to straighten teeth. Archaeologists have discovered mummified corpses with crude metal bands wrapped around individual teeth. To close gaps, it has been theorized that catgut did the work now done by today's space-age orthodontic wire.

In the 1960s, the process of putting braces on could take nearly an entire day. Bands were fitted around each tooth, which required forcing the teeth apart to accommodate the hardware. Nowadays, treatment is more comfortable, and a lot more efficient.

Amazingly, NASA developed one of the late 20th century's most dramatic orthodontic breakthroughs---heat-activated nickel-titanium alloy wires. At room temperature, heat-activated nickel-titanium wires are very flexible. They're very light, and as they warm to body temperature they become active and gradually move the teeth in the anticipated direction. Because of their high-tech properties, these wires retain their tooth-moving abilities longer.

As technology has changed, so have treatment philosophies and approaches. Adults weren't likely to seek treatment just a few decades ago, yet approximately 30 percent of orthodontic patients today are adults. Most parents wouldn't have considered taking their children to an orthodontist until all the "baby" teeth were gone. The AAO currently recommends that every child have an orthodontic checkup no later than age 7.

Regardless of when treatment is recommended to start, orthodontics can ease physical and emotional trauma. A child whose teeth are crooked or jaws obviously are out of alignment may suffer more through the thoughtless teasing of other kids. Teeth that aren't in the right position are also prone to injury.

BRACES COULD HELP THREE OUT OF FOUR PEOPLE

The AAO estimates that up to 75 percent of people could benefit from orthodontic care. Nearly 4½ million people in the United States and Canada are presently in orthodontic treatment, according to the AAO. One in five is over age 18. Some are as young as 5 or 6, and some are in their 60s, 70s, and older! Healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age.

A healthy, beautiful smile is the most obvious result of orthodontic treatment, but there's so much more to our specialty than meets the eye. As a person's smile improves, self-esteem increases, too.

We’re happy to give your patients something to smile about during
National Orthodontic Health Month!

“Dentists, Orthodontists, they’re all the same right?” We hear our patients asking this question as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Before becoming an orthodontist Dr. Kathleen Tavarez started her career in dental school and earned a dental degree, just like your dentist. After dental school however, Dr. Tavarez decided she wanted to learn more about orthodontics, which is one of nine specialties within the dental field. So she stayed in school for a few more years and became an expert in orthodontics, which focuses on tooth and jaw alignment and bite problems like overbites and under bites.

Other dental specialties you may have heard of include endodontic (focusing on the soft tissue inside your teeth), periodontic (focusing on the gums and other tissues surrounding your teeth) and prosthodontic (focusing on restoring and replacing damaged teeth).

Isn’t it nice to know there’s a dental expert in Dr. Tavarez to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?

Happy Monday! 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!

Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds really simple and 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, text messages and more!

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!

At Tavarez Orthodontics, we pride ourselves in the courteous service we deliver to each person who walks through our doors; it’s about connecting with our patients on a personal level to create a uniquely personal orthodontic experience. Even if you only see Dr. Tavarez for your appointment on a regular basis, did you know that you can now connect with us Facebook?

We invite you to “like” us at Facebook.com/TavarezOrthodontics. There, we share office news and updates on our Fan Page, so check it out! By Liking our page, you will receive updates, contest information and more from our office automatically in your news feed!

See you on Facebook and have a great rest of the week!

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.

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!

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.

At Tavarez Orthodontics, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your adjustment visits with Dr. Kathleen Tavarez.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Dr. Tavarez if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Tavarez Orthodontics or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

The dog days of summer are upon us, and what better time for our team at Tavarez Orthodontics to ask our patients about their summer!

Whether you visited our nation’s capitol, went on a camping trip, visited the state fair or just stayed in town and hung out with friends, we want to know how you’re all spending your summer! Please feel free to share your summer plans and experiences with us below or on our Facebook page as the summer comes to an end soon for a lot of our patients! We invite you to post your photos as well!

We look forward to hearing all about your adventures! Enjoy the rest of your summer!

It’s National Smile Week at Tavarez Orthodontics, and a GREAT time to remind Dr. Tavarez's patients to practice good oral hygiene to keep those teeth shining during your orthodontic treatment!

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Week for many, many years to come:



* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces.

* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment

* Visit your dentist regularly (every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist)!

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call, ask Dr. Tavarez during your next visit ... or ask us on Facebook!

And remember to smile at people you come across throughout the week, whether you know them or not. Smiles are contagious, and are a good thing to give and to get. We hope you’re all having a relaxing summer!

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our team know one word nobody wants to hear when they visit the dentist – especially during their orthodontic treatment – is Cavity! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly are cavities and how do they happen? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed. Yes, cavities can be repaired by your general dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities at home:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily

• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)

• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach

• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink

• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months – or as recommended – for a teeth cleaning and check-up

If you don’t have a general dentist, Dr. Tavarez would be glad to provide a few recommendations in Menlo Park, San Carlos or surrounding areas!

We hope you’re having a great summer!

We hope you’re off to a great summer so far! If you are planning on traveling with family this summer or think you might not be able to make it to your scheduled adjustment appointment at Tavarez Orthodontics, please let us know ahead of time so that we may be able to accommodate you, as well as schedule another patient with Dr. Tavarez at that appointment time.

Also, we ask that you give us a call and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed! Please call us with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you! Enjoy the rest of your week!

Our team at Tavarez Orthodontics are EXCITED to announce our SUMMER TRAVELS CONTEST! Send us your postcard, and you could WIN a basket full- of BACK-TO-SCHOOL GOODIES and a $75 GIFT CARD TO TARGET!

America turns 235 years old today! It’s a day to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and also a time for every American to pay homage to our soldiers - past and present - who have placed themselves in harm’s way so that we may continue to enjoy our freedom.

Our team at Tavarez Orthodontics would like to know: what are your plans for the 4th of July? Are you out in the sun? Have you stocked up on fireworks? Are you going to grill up your favorite summer foods? If you have a 4th of July tradition, we would love to hear all about it.

We hope you have a fun and safe holiday! Feel free to upload your 4th of July photos to our Facebook page and let us know how your Independence Day turned out this year.

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures here in northern California. What’s better on a hot summer day than a delicious treat that will cool you down after doing something active in the summer sun? Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have just the thing, Watermelon Sorbet! You can find the complete recipe below:

Watermelon Sorbet

Ingredients

• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 2 to 3 cups watermelon, diced, no seeds or rind

Directions

In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and lime juice on medium high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Chill this “syrup” at least 20 minutes. In the meantime, place the watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender and liquefy them. Add the chilled syrup to the watermelon puree and blend. Freeze sorbet in an ice-cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.

Enjoy!

-Dr. Tavarez and team

With summer 2011 almost here (FINALLY!), some of us at Tavarez Orthodontics 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 not too long ago, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading! We're interested in YOUR suggestions!

Now that June is here, our team at Tavarez Orthodontics thought we’d tell you June is National Smile Month, and a good time to remind all our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to our convenient Menlo Park or San Carlos offices, as well as your general dentist to avoid cavities and gum disease, among other dental health issues.

That means you too, parents! After all, there's more and more evidence that suggests folks with gum disease are more at risk for serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and strokes.

Below are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment
* Visit your dentist regularly (every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist)!

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call, ask Dr. Tavarez during your next visit or ask us on Facebook!

At Tavarez Orthodontics, our practice's top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment.

One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in orthodontic treatment. During this time, you'll have time reserved with Dr. Kathleen Tavarez, who will assess your particular needs as well as discuss treatment options available and answer any questions you may have. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning treatment.

If you have been thinking about obtaining the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted, we invite you to give a call at. We have two convenient offices in Menlo Park and San Carlos, CA.

See you soon!

Memorial Day weekend is a time Americans remember all those who bravely gave their lives for our country. It’s also the unofficial start of summer, and for many kids, getting out of town for three days with parents after being in school all these months is sure to be sweet, sweet relief.

At Tavarez Orthodontics, we know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s unofficially the start of summer and time for a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories with parents or friends. What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? What will you be doing on your day off from school or work?

Whether you are headed to a barbeque, a camping trip, or just having fun in the California sun this weekend, we’d like to hear all about it! Enjoy the holiday!

Because Dr. Kathleen Tavarez can spot subtle problems with jaw growth or teeth while a child still has primary or “baby” teeth present, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends all children get a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age seven.

Some problems are not so subtle, and you may notice them early on. If you see any of the following signs in your child, please make an appointment with Dr. Tavarez immediately. (If your child is younger than seven, it is not necessary to wait till his or her seventh birthday to visit our office.) We want to identify any problems as early as possible so that we can implement the appropriate treatment at the appropriate time for your child’s individual needs.

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty in chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced, or blocked-out teethhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
6. Speech difficulty
7. Jaws that shift or make sounds
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Teeth that stick out too far
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don't meet at all
11. Upper and lower jaws that don’t line up
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

If your child is displaying any of these signs, please contact us at our Menlo Park or San Carlos office and set up an appointment!

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.

Thanks for the question! There are a variety of foods Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our team want 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.

Are you ready for our next in-office contest? As part of our Father's Day contest, we invite you to come on in to Tavarez Orthodontics and guess how many Nuts & Bolts are in the jar!

The winner will receive a $100 gift card (for dad) to Home Depot. What a great gift for dad! The contest runs through June 30th!

GOOD LUCK!

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our staff at Tavarez Orthodontics realize we are living in an age with a renewed commitment to conservation, and are frequently reminded to recycle, reduce and reuse. Earth Day is tomorrow, April 22nd, and we thought this would a great time to discuss the things that our office does to conserve our natural resources and the environment.

Did you know that we offer patients account access 24 hours a day, seven days a week? Our office has convenient and secure online services with Sesame 24-7™. Patients can also receive appointment reminders through email or text messages. Since this information is submitted electronically, we eliminate the use of large amounts of paper and printing materials.

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage.

Dr. Tavarez & our team would love to hear how you minimize your impact on the environment. Leave us a comment below or you can also visit our Facebook page and post something on our wall.

Happy Earth Day!

Dr. Tavarez wants to know: Are you brushing your teeth twice a day during your orthodontic treatment? If the answer happens to be yes, we think that’s great! But, it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist in Menlo Park, San Carlos or Atherton every six months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting us at Tavarez Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health.

Your general dentist can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam your dentist can check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, let Dr. Tavarez or one of staff members know during your next visit and we will provide a few great references in the greater Bay Area!

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!

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s already springtime! The spring months, however, bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. If you play sports, it’s important that you consult Dr. Kathleen Tavarez for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and others. Be sure, however, to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements we are trying to achieve.

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 Dr. Tavarez. And don’t forget to ask us—Dr. Tavarez will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment.

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 with Dr. Tavarez.

Located in Menlo Park, San Carlos, and serving Atherton, California, our practice's top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. We know having a healthy, beautiful smile is important!

And speaking of smiling, in a new poll conducted by Glamour Magazine, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?

Well, 44 percent of folks out there are choosing teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of a person’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

Whether you're an adult, adolescent or child, our knowledgeable doctor and staff are committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve - a healthy, beautiful one! Call our Menlo Park and San Carlos, CA offices today to schedule an appointment.

At Tavarez Orthodontics, we know it's sometimes hard to believe the transformation your smile undergoes during orthodontic treatment. Our team at Tavarez Orthodontics love to see our patients’ smiles light up when they see their new smile in the mirror for the first time. For those of you who haven’t yet started or finished your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Kathleen Tavarez, have you ever wondered what your new smile might look like after treatment?

The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO for short, has recently launched a new tool called “Virtual Smiles”, which shows what your smile might look like after orthodontic treatment. Using the tool will also earn you a free orthodontic consultation coupon, which can be redeemed at our office by yourself, a family member or friend.

Check out the Virtual Smiles tool, and call Tavarez Orthodontics to get started on improving your smile today!

Dr. Tavarez and team recently found this video on YouTube, and we realized that it’s just what folks considering Invisalign in San Carlos, Menlo Park or surrounding areas in the Bay Area might be interested in watching. Invisalign sure gets a ton of promotion online (including here on Dr. Tavarez' blog), but people rarely get the see a clear cut, unbiased, point of view from someone who actually has chosen to straighten their teeth with Invisalign.

At Tavarez Orthodontics, we get quite a lot of requests for Invisalign, and always let our patients know about the stages of Invisalign, as well as how one might first react to it. But, to hear it from someone actually wearing these clear aligners is really something else!

Check out this video of a patient who has been wearing her aligners for only 10 minutes! Because they’re clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and no one will know it but you! Please give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation, so Dr. Tavarez can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

It’s that time of year and we are very excited to announce that we will be giving away a Giants gift card to AT&T Park!

Guess “who is who” from the SF Giants, and YOU will have a chance to win a Giants gift card! Contest ends April 21.

Today marks Presidents’ Day, a day known for celebrating both George Washington’s and Abraham Lincoln’s combined February birthdays. Presidents’ Day was created in 1971, when President Richard Nixon combined the birthdays of two of our most well-known presidents into one single federal holiday. Presidents’ Day also marks a hard-earned day off from work and school for a lot of our patients at Tavarez Orthodontics.

Here are a few fun facts about our nation’s presidents we thought you might enjoy:

*Ulysses S. Grant, our 18th president, got a speeding ticket ... on a horse. Grant was given a $20 speeding ticket for riding his horse too fast down a Washington street.

*George Washington is the first president to be featured on a postage stamp.

*President Obama collects "Spiderman" and "Conan The Barbarian" comic books, and has even read every "Harry Potter" book.

*Ronald Reagan, our 40th president, broke the so-called “20-year curse,” in which every president elected in a year ending in 0 died in office.

*Harry S. Truman was the first president to have his Inauguration and speeches televised.

*Not only was James A. Garfield the first president to be ambidextrous, but it was said he could write a sentence in Latin with one hand and write it in Greek with the other hand.

*Fourteen presidents served as vice presidents: J. Adams, Jefferson, Van Buren, Tyler, Fillmore, A. Johnson, Arthur, T. Roosevelt, Coolidge, Truman, Nixon, L. Johnson, Ford, and George H.W. Bush.

*Abraham Lincoln was the tallest of the U.S. presidents measuring 6’ 4” tall.

At Tavarez Orthodontics, our practice's top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment.

One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in orthodontic treatment. During this time, you'll have time reserved with Dr. Kathleen Tavarez, who will assess your particular needs as well as discuss treatment options available and answer any questions you may have. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning treatment.

If you have been thinking about obtaining the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted, we invite you to give a call at. We have two convenient offices in Menlo Park and San Carlos, CA.

See you soon! Happy Valentine's Day!

At Tavarez Orthodontics, February is National Children's Dental Health Month, and Dr. Tavarez and team thought we’d promote good oral hygiene among our patients with a few tips and tricks, courtesy of the American Dental Association.

• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.

• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and insert it between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.

• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as cheese, fruits and vegetables and avoid crunchy, sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, be sure to brush after doing so.

• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these drinks create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. If you’re going to drink one of these beverages, don’t sip on it throughout the day. Rather, drink it and then brush your teeth.

• Regular dental visits: in addition to seeing our team at our Menlo Park or San Carlos, CA office during your orthodontic treatment, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months.

National Dental Health Month aims to increase awareness about the importance of our patients' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment at Tavarez Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Spring sports are just around the corner, and our staff, including Dr. Kathleen Tavarez, would like to remind our young athletes in treatment to take care of both your mouth and appliances while participating in contact sports (and non-contact sports) as well this spring. Dr. Tavarez will tell you that 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 - we will provide a mouth guard for anyone in active treatment!

If you have further questions or are ready to schedule your consultation, just give us a call at our Menlo Park or San Carlos office.

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.

Today, we celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who was a thinker, leader and civil rights champion. In the 1950s and ’60s, Dr. King recognized the need to bring about social justice, and worked tirelessly to instill tolerance in our nation, strengthen America’s communities and move the nation forward. This weekend and all day today, thousands of people of all ages and races in the Bay Area and all over California spent their time building, giving and renovating our communities to help celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend. Did you have the day off? If so, did you participate in any service- or community-building projects?

We’d love to know about your activities and events this MLK Jr. Day. If you have any video or pictures you’d like to share, please pass them along! If you’re not sure how, give us a call!

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez and our entire team are proud of all our patients, families and colleagues who continue to make a difference in our community!

Check out our BRAND NEW Super Cool Kids Club and win lots of great prizes!

We are THRILLED to announce our VALENTINE "unscramble" CONTEST. All you need to do is unscramble the following words and you could be our winner for 4 movie passes! Contest ends Feb. 14. GOOD LUCK!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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! 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.

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!

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!

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!

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.

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!

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!

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 :)

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!

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!!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!!

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!

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!!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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.

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!

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!

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!

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!

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 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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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!

Dr. Kathleen Tavarez, who has been specializing in orthodontics since 1992, considers it her personal obligation to provide the highest quality orthodontic care to her patients. She began her higher education by studying at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she graduated with a Bachelor’s in Science. She went on to the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Finally, Dr. Tavarez graduated the University of Detroit Mercy, where she earned her Specialty Degree and Masters in Orthodontics.

Memberships in organizations allow Dr. Tavarez to stay on the cutting edge of clinical and technological orthodontic advances, which is why in 2007 Dr. Tavarez was named an Invisalign Elite Premier Provider, representing the top 1% of North American practitioners. Dr. Tavarez and her husband, Ray, have two children, Kaitlin and RJ. When not in the office, she enjoys spending quality time with her family.