Business Details
45 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Orthodontist in San Diego
Liberty Station Orthodontics has been dedicated to transforming smiles in San Diego County since 1981. Our board-certified orthodontists, Dr. Paul Upatham and Dr. Katherine Wong, bring decades of combined expertise in advanced orthodontic techniques, including Invisalign, clear braces, and corrective jaw surgery. We utilize cutting-edge digital technology like the iTero scanner to ensure precise diagnostics and personalized treatment plans.Our practice prioritizes patient education, clear communication, and a warm, state-of-the-art environment to deliver lasting, healthy smiles for children, teens, and adults. As a top 1% Invisalign Diamond Plus Provider, we combine technical excellence with compassionate care to exceed expectations.
Services
Orthodontics
Braces
Invisalign
Invisalign Teen
Corrective Jaw Surgery
Two-Phase Treatment
Digital Impressions
Retainers
Oral Surgery
Emergency Care
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- We have been serving San Diego County since 1981.
- Our orthodontists are board-certified and Invisalign Diamond Plus Providers.
- We use advanced digital technology like the iTero scanner for precision.
- We prioritize patient education and personalized treatment plans.
- Our team fosters a warm, caring, and state-of-the-art environment.
Associations and certifications
- American Board of Orthodontics
- Invisalign Diamond Plus Provider
What people say
Beautiful smile
Experienced doctors
Advanced technology
Caring staff
Lasting results
Services
Invisalign
Invisalign uses transparent, removable aligners to straighten teeth discreetly. Custom-designed with 3D imaging, they offer comfort and convenience, allowing patients to eat, brush, and floss normally. Ideal for correcting mild to moderate misalignments, Invisalign provides predictable results with minimal disruption to daily life.
Braces
Traditional metal and ceramic braces apply gentle pressure to reposition teeth over time. Modern designs reduce discomfort and visibility while improving efficiency. They are effective for complex cases, including severe crowding or bite issues, ensuring durable and precise outcomes.
Corrective Jaw Surgery
Corrective jaw surgery addresses skeletal discrepancies affecting bite, speech, or breathing. Performed in conjunction with orthodontics, it repositions the upper or lower jaw to improve function and facial symmetry. Recovery typically spans several months, with long-term benefits for oral health.
Two-Phase Treatment
Two-phase treatment addresses childhood orthodontic issues in stages. Phase I (ages 6-10) guides jaw growth and creates space for permanent teeth. Phase II (adolescence) aligns teeth fully. This approach prevents future extractions or surgery, ensuring stable, lasting results.
Digital Impressions
Digital impressions replace traditional putty molds with laser scanning for precise, comfortable diagnostics. The iTero scanner captures detailed 3D images in minutes, enhancing treatment planning accuracy. Patients view real-time models, improving communication and confidence in their care process.
People
Paul K. Upatham
Orthodontist
Dr. Paul Upatham earned his dental degree from Baylor College of Dentistry in 2001 and completed orthodontic training at USC. A board-certified orthodontist, he has practiced in San Diego since 2004 and previously taught at USC. He prioritizes patient communication and enjoys family time, golf, and travel.
Katherine A. Wong
Orthodontist
Dr. Katherine Wong received her dental degree from the University of the Pacific in 2013 and completed her orthodontic residency at USC. A board-certified specialist, she joined Liberty Station Orthodontics after partnering with Dr. Upatham. She focuses on lifelong smile health and enjoys reading, running, and beach outings.
Questions
What orthodontic services do you offer for adults?
We provide braces, Invisalign, and corrective jaw surgery tailored to adult needs, including discreet options like clear aligners and ceramic braces.
How does Invisalign work compared to traditional braces?
Invisalign uses removable, clear aligners designed with 3D imaging to gradually shift teeth, while braces use fixed brackets and wires for precise tooth movement.
What is two-phase orthodontic treatment?
Two-phase treatment addresses childhood orthodontic issues in stages: Phase I guides jaw growth, and Phase II aligns permanent teeth for optimal results.
Do you offer emergency orthodontic care?
Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency services for urgent orthodontic issues, including broken brackets, wire irritation, or trauma.
What technology do you use for diagnostics?
We use the iTero digital scanner for accurate, comfortable impressions and 3D imaging to enhance treatment planning and patient communication.
