Kids getting braces at a younger age

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

Experts, however, 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 begins between ages nine and 14, and the folks at 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 us to assess what the best age for treatment is.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions about your child’s treatment!

What’s on your summer reading list?

With summer in full swing, some of us at Otay Lakes Orthodontics wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development and warding off the dreaded “summer slide.” Plus, it's fun!

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR summer reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great summer reads? Ask us for suggestions, and our staff would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas or check out these summer reading ideas that we came across today, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your summer picks or your all-time favorites on our Facebook page!

Ask Dr. Poggio: Who benefits from braces?

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Poggio 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 overall 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 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! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment for a consultation and find out how adult orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

Orthodontics Creates a Life Changing Experience for One Patient in Chula Vista, CA

Jessica recently had her braces removed at Otay Lakes Orthodontics, and is in the process of completing her orthodontic treatment with us. She describes the life changing effect her treatment has had, and how glad she was for choosing to improve her smile with Dr. Poggio. She explains that orthodontics don't just change your outward appearance, but has an effect on your self confidence too. On completing treatment, Jessica describes that she is "still me, but a better me!"

How have orthodontics changed your life? leave a comment!

Congratulations to Adam for Getting His Braces Off!

In this video, Adam explains that braces took some getting used to, but he enjoyed coming to the office, and was pleased with the expertise and respect of the staff at Otay Lakes Orthodontics in Chula Vista, CA.

Happy Fourth of July!