Welcome to Bales Orthodontics. Located in Marin and Sonoma Counties, California, our practices top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. We utilize the latest technological advances in the industry, such as Damon Braces, invisible ceramic braces, and Invisalign, along with the latest in computer technology (digital imaging and advanced computer graphics) to ensure that you receive the most effective care possible.
Dr. Katie Bales is here to help with your orthodontic needs having years of experience with cutting edge techniques, plus state-of-the-art facilities. Dr. Katie Bales is the top premiere provider for Invisalign in Marin and Sonoma counties. Bales Orthodontics has delivered outstanding orthodontic treatment to over 15,000 people.
We 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 youre an adult, adolescent, or child, our knowledgeable doctors and staff are committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve a healthy, beautiful one!
Thank you for visiting our website! My name is Kathleen Bales and because we have two Dr. Bales in our practice, our patients call me Dr. Katie. 10 years ago, I joined my Father, Dr Tom Bales, in our family Orthodontic practice in both Novato and Santa Rosa, California. I feel very fortunate to be able to take care of our patients in the beautiful North Bay where I was born and raised.
I attended the University of Colorado at Boulder (Go Buffs!) for my undergraduate education and majored in Biology. I received my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2003 from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in San Francisco where I enjoy teaching Invisalign part-time to the dental students.
I completed my Orthodontic Residency in 2006 at the University of California at Los Angeles (Go Bruins!), where I was chief resident. I simultaneously earned a Master of Science degree and my research was focused on the orthodontic treatment of cleft palate patients.
I am an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, California Dental Association and the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontics as well as the local dental societies of Marin and Sonoma County. I am proud to be the current President of the California Assocation of Orthodontists. Like my father, I have the distinction of being a Board-Certified Orthodontist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics.
I am married to my husband, Robert Balchunas, and together we have 3sweetdaughters, Lola,Margo, and Hadley. I enjoy traveling, skiing, hiking and spending time with my family. But most of all, I enjoy providing the best possible care for our patients.
Welcome to our website and thank you for taking the time to read about our practice. Ive been in the exclusive practice of Orthodontics since 1976. I received my dental degree from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry here in San Francisco and completed my Orthodontic Residency at UCLA.
Ive been an active member of the California Association of Orthodontists, serving as its President and on the Board of Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists. I am a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, Sonoma County Dental Society and Marin County Dental Society, of which I am a Past-President as well. Dr Katie and I are both Board Certified Orthodontists of the American Board of Orthodontists. The ABO is a distinction held by only 25% of practicing Orthodontists.
I am married to Suzanne and have 3 kids, of whom Dr Katie is the eldest. Suzanne and I have 4beautiful grandchildren who keep us busy. I enjoy fly fishing and traveling. Being able to provide beautiful smiles for our patients is a passion of mine that I am fortunateenough to continue to do with Dr Katie.
My family is originally from Mexico and I grew up on the East Coast. I attended Wake Forest University in North Carolina, where I studied Spanish Literature and Chemistry. After college, I was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship and spent a year researching public health in Mexico City. I then received my Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine.
I completed my Orthodontics Residency at the University of the Pacific and also earned my Masters of Science degree for my research that studied and evaluated patient motivating factors when seeking orthodontic care. I find teaching and mentoring to be very rewarding and meaningful. I maintain an instructor position at the University of the Pacific where I teach Invisalign to the dental students.
My husband, Chris Zand, and I reside in Sausalito. We enjoy exploring the food scene, spending time with our families, being outdoors, and traveling. Above all, I enjoy caring for patients in our community and especially welcome those who seek a Spanish speaking Orthodontist.
Reviews
Rating 4.7 out of 5 based on 24 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestLuz
2 years ago
The staff was always kind. The place has a comfortable atmosphere. I'm no longer afraid to smile because of Bales !
Christian Bon
2 years ago
My teeth are good now
Alex Loxley
2 years ago
I was nervous to get braces, but bales just made it ten times better, and eased my nerves. Everyone who works there is so nice, and understanding. They made the experience special.
Alex Loxley
3 years ago
I was nervous to get braces, but bales just made it ten times better, and eased my nerves. Everyone who works there is so nice, and understanding. They made the experience special.
M Armstrong
4 years ago
My son had his braces removed 2014/15. Although I am okay with standard straightened teeth, the cement was not thoroughly removed per my dentist's hygienist at his general cleaning at that time. They did not have the equipment to adequately remove the cement so we took him back in to Bale's office and they assured us that cement WAS removed. Fast forward to now(10/2019) he is 21 years old, we moved to different state (he from different country or two) and now back with us during transition (blah, blah)... Been awhile since last teeth cleaning. Different hygienist said still cement from braces left still on teeth! Sigh... Get second opinion before and after.
Joey Henschel
4 years ago
My experience at Bales Orthodontics was great! My teeth look better than ever, and the staff are excellent at their jobs, as well as being kind and friendly. Overall, I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking to get their teeth straightened.
Trisha D
4 years ago
Dr. Katie and her dad are beyond fantastic! They are extremely generous, community-oriented, and very professional. The work they did on my son's teeth is exceptional. I truly did not expect such results. He had massive problems and now has PERFECT teeth. I cannot say enough how pleased we are! I would encourage everyone to use their services. We were ALWAYS seen very promptly, VERY welcomed by the staff, and each visit was cheerful. They gave my son clear, easy-to -follow instructions when he visited. There was never any waiting time...very quick and very efficient. His braces came off in just over a year and the transformation is dramatic. I cannot say enough on the dramatic improvement of his teeth; we are so pleased!
Revan Suzuno
4 years ago
I was scared to get braces for many years but decided to get them after deciding it would be worth the pain to have a healthy smile. The staff was always super friendly and helpful with all of my questions and fears. If I had to do it again or could go back and tell myself to do it sooner this is the only place I would recommend. Thank you to both Dr. Bales, Sharon, Maureen and the rest of the staff for absolutely everything. I am ecstatic with my new smile and will keep it forever!!!
M Armstrong
4 years ago
My son had his braces removed 2014/15. Although I am okay with standard straightened teeth, the cement was not thoroughly removed per my dentist's hygienist at his general cleaning at that time. They did not have the equipment to adequately remove the cement so we took him back in to Bale's office and they assured us that cement WAS removed. Fast forward to now(10/2019) he is 21 years old, we moved to different state (he from different country or two) and now back with us during transition (blah, blah)... Been awhile since last teeth cleaning. Different hygienist said still cement from braces left still on teeth! Sigh... Get second opinion before and after.
Joey Henschel
5 years ago
My experience at Bales Orthodontics was great! My teeth look better than ever, and the staff are excellent at their jobs, as well as being kind and friendly. Overall, I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking to get their teeth straightened.
Trisha D
5 years ago
Dr. Katie and her dad are beyond fantastic! They are extremely generous, community-oriented, and very professional. The work they did on my son's teeth is exceptional. I truly did not expect such results. He had massive problems and now has PERFECT teeth. I cannot say enough how pleased we are! I would encourage everyone to use their services. We were ALWAYS seen very promptly, VERY welcomed by the staff, and each visit was cheerful. They gave my son clear, easy-to -follow instructions when he visited. There was never any waiting time...very quick and very efficient. His braces came off in just over a year and the transformation is dramatic. I cannot say enough on the dramatic improvement of his teeth; we are so pleased!
Revan Suzuno
5 years ago
I was scared to get braces for many years but decided to get them after deciding it would be worth the pain to have a healthy smile. The staff was always super friendly and helpful with all of my questions and fears. If I had to do it again or could go back and tell myself to do it sooner this is the only place I would recommend. Thank you to both Dr. Bales, Sharon, Maureen and the rest of the staff for absolutely everything. I am ecstatic with my new smile and will keep it forever!!!
Heather Anderson
5 years ago
This review is long overdue. I've been working with Dr Bales for the past 5 years as a general dentist. It's such a pleasure working with an orthodontist who listens to what the end goals our for our patients, whether that is moving teeth into the ideal position before crowns are placed or helping our pediatric patients with early intervention. We receive nothing but great feedback from our patients who have seen her and her dad, Dr Thomas Bales.
Eddie E (Mic Instrumentalz)
5 years ago
Staff is very rude.
Heather Anderson
6 years ago
This review is long overdue. I've been working with Dr Bales for the past 5 years as a general dentist. It's such a pleasure working with an orthodontist who listens to what the end goals our for our patients, whether that is moving teeth into the ideal position before crowns are placed or helping our pediatric patients with early intervention. We receive nothing but great feedback from our patients who have seen her and her dad, Dr Thomas Bales.
Eddie E (Mic Instrumentalz)
6 years ago
Staff is very rude.
Conor Grace
6 years ago
The people are always nice and there is a small wait.
Kenzie Madsen
6 years ago
I came into Bales in 2013 and had an amazing transformation by 2017! Everyone was so nice and supportive throughout the long journey and I was so happy when I finally got my braces off!
Austin Ridley
6 years ago
Love my smile and Dr Bales office did an amazing job on me
Conor Grace
7 years ago
The people are always nice and there is a small wait.
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