Orthodontic Center LA

Orthodontic Center LA - Orthodontist in Pacific Palisades, CA
881 Alma Real Dr #200, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Open
Closes at 5:00pm
SundayClosed
Monday9:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday9:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday9:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday9:00am - 5:00pm
Friday9:00am - 4:00pm
SaturdayClosed

Your smile is the first impression you give to the world every day. It is an expression of your personality and a symbol of who you are. At Orthodontic Center LA, Dr. Jacobson understands how important that impression is to someones self-image. We want you to be able to smile confidently when you meet someone for the first time, during that critical interview, while you are out laughing with your friends, or on the day of that special event.

Our goal is to help you achieve confidence. Every year, new technology is made available to orthodontists to raise the level of patient care regarding results, convenience, and pain. Dr. Jacobson makes sure to stay on the cutting edge of new developments in the field to ensure that you are receiving the best care possible. We use state-of-the-art equipment for adult and child braces, Invisalign, wisdom tooth removal, TMJ disorder treatment, and the treatment of many other problems associated with the dental health of our patients.

An orthodontist is a specialist who has received two or three years of additional dental training and experience in the field of dental care. As such, Dr. Jacobson can help straighten your teeth, correct your misaligned jaw structure, and improve the appearance of your smile.

There is no age limit for visiting an orthodontist to correct your dental problems. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit around the age of 7; however, one in five orthodontic patients are above the age of 21.

Dr. Jacobson taught part time at UCLA School of Dentistry, department of Orthodontic for 20 years, postdoctoral students studying Maxillofacial Surgery and Orthodontics. He has also lectured on jaw and bite disorders, orthodontics and jaw surgery throughout the United States and abroad. Publications include articles in the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, the American Journal of Orthodontics, and the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

He also authored several chapters in various books including Magnetic Resonance Imaging (Lippincott-Raven Publishing) and Petersons 3rd Edition two volume textbook, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. His text book, Cephalometrics, From Basic to 3-D published by Quintessence (best-selling textbook) is used by orthodontists, surgeons and postdoctoral orthodontist and surgery residents at universities throughout the USA and abroad and translated into different languages. Dr. Jacobson served as President of the UCLA Orthodontics Alumni Association in 1985 and again in 2001.

He also served as Director of the Foundation for Orthodontic Research and Education from 1990 to 2000 and was elected president. He served on the UCLA/St. Johns Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Team, and as Director of the W.O.D.T., a multi-disciplinary diagnostic team of specialists including prominent maxillofacial surgeons, otorhinolaryngologists, rheumatologists, neurologists, orthodontists, dentists, and speech pathologists. It was this experience and the recruiting of Dr. Stephen A. Schendel (Professor Emeritus and Chief of Plastic Surgery, Stanford University, Department of Plastic Surgery), that inspired the launch of our multi-disciplinary center in Pacific Palisades that includes:

C. Phillip Amoils MD FACS, a USC Board Certified ENT (ears, nose, throat and sinus specialist, serves as the Chief of Surgery at Sinus Center LA. He has helped thousands of patients suffering unnecessarily from nasal and sinus congestion and obstructive sleep apnea.

David Dorfman DDS MD is one of the few surgeons in the world, double board certified in both Maxillofacial Surgery and Plastic Surgery with advanced training in Craniofacial Surgery from Stanford University Medical Center.

Dr. Jacobson is a recognized expert, clinician, and researcher in orthodontics for children and adults. He has been in practice for over 30 years and has analyzed, documented, and completed treatment on over 12,000 patients. Dr. Jacobson has advanced training and extensive experience in orthodontics for jaw surgery, jaw and bite disorders, temporomandibular joint disorders and obstructive sleep apnea.

The core of his treatment philosophy is directed toward progressively enhancing the overall health, optimal function, and natural aesthetics of his patients. His treatment is preventative, interceptive, corrective, and bio-mimetic. Dr. Jacobson received his postdoctoral certification at the UCLA School of Dentistrys Department of Orthodontics in 1981.

He then pursued advanced training in jaw and bite disorders at the UCLA Temporomandibular Joint Department earning a masters degree in oral biology in 1983. Over the next five years, he received additional training at the American Institute of Bio-progressive Education where he was invited to teach with one of his mentors Dr. Robert M Ricketts, world renown for his contributions to the profession of orthodontics and his expertise in temporomandibular joint disorders and orthodontics for jaw surgery.

For many people, regardless of age, having braces can be a daunting process. With all of the teeth straightening options on the market, and all of the different types of people who need braces, deciding on what style or approach to take can be confusing and overwhelming. In order to help with that process, Dr. Jacobson has compiled an easily referenced list of options to help relieve some of the turmoil.

Modern dentistry has evolved up to that point that nowadays industry standard is delivering that famous Hollywood smile to any patient at affordable price. Los Angeles region as a nearby destination offers large amounts of dental specialists that are capable of transforming smiles. When talking about smile reconstruction we always think about crowns, veneers, whitening, but there are some situations like crooked or badly positioned teeth where its best to straighten them prior to any aesthetical work. For that kind of interventions, an orthodontist is a go-to specialist.

Orthodontics is a part of dentistry that deals with teeth and jaw malposition and their respective alignment. It is a very complex area of expertise because it deals not only with aesthetic but with the functionality of the oral system. Specializes especially on the proper balance between teeth and surrounding facial muscles. The two major things that can improve patients oral, general health and boost confidence at the same time.

When talking about cosmetic adjustments it is usually referred to straightening teeth out, spreading crowded teeth, or closing spaces between them. While open bite, overbite and crossed bite are variations of dysfunctionalities, thus are more complex than teeth misalignment. They require more attention, knowledge and time involved. What both of these mishaps have in common is their impact on the patients self-confidence. Self-confidence is a major component of general well-being. Orthodontic therapy can be performed with multiple devices, appliances, especially in pediatric cases, but when patients are over 16 years old specialists usually resort to braces.

When you hear the words braces first thing that comes to mind is traditional metal ones. Famously known for their metal appearance and low aesthetic values, they were around for a very long time. As a matter of fact, they still are due to their price and the fact that they do an excellent job. For the time being, they inspired dentists to come up with braces that are more aesthetically pleasing, thus why today we have lingual, ceramics and Invisalign braces. During that time the evolution of metal braces themselves was minor, it was based on implementing stronger materials and smaller brackets.

Metal braces are made from high-grade stainless steel or in some cases titanium, and they consist of three parts. First of all brackets, then archwires and rubber bands also called ligatures. Brackets are square-shaped elements that are fixed onto the teeth, on the side placed towards the lips and cheeks. Their function is to hold the archwire.

An archwire is a thin metal wire that connects the bracket and believes it or not, it is doing all the work, the whole teeth shifting process is based on the archwire. Archwires come in various sizes regarding thickness. Each caliber has its purpose. Treatments usually start with the thinnest ones.

Once archwires are placed onto the brackets they transfer their elastic force directly to the teeth. That force gradually shifts the teeth in a given direction at the desired pace. If these forces are strong it results in faster movement and quicker rearranging, but at the same time, it is very aggressive and bad for the supporting tissues, gums, and bones. That is why it is best to take your time, start with thinner wire and smaller forces. This is the safest way, securing to reach desired therapy effect with the least amount of complications. Rubber bands, called ligatures, have solely one purpose and that is to hold archwires on brackets. Made out of rubber as the name says, simple circle shaped and elastic. There are a variety of colors to choose from, to help to break that greyness of the brace itself.

One of the key points is durability. They are the strongest option amongst braces, very solid and difficult to break or chip. Most affordable ones but at the same time they dont come off short with the result. Although not considered appealing, but on the positive side they are very hard to stain, unlike ceramic braces for example. Wearing braces comes with some difficulties, for example, discomfort while wearing during low temperatures in winter seasons. The metallic flavor is a thing, it comes from saliva interaction with braces. First few weeks are hard for the surrounding tissues, sore cheeks and tongue are normal to expect.

Lingual braces are the least visible type of braces. As the name says, lingual braces are placed onto the lingual surfaces of the teeth, which makes them practically invisible. A great solution for many people, especially business people that do a lot of presentations, meetings, as well as celebrities, athletes, etc. Not to forget musicians and actors, that use their vocal abilities most, and lingual braces not just invisible, they are easiest to adapt to.

They consist of the same components regular braces do, the main difference being just the side of teeth array is placed on. Having braces on the inside takes some extra getting used to. Usually custom made for each patient because lingual surfaces are distinct. To make that perfect fit, the dentist needs to take an impression. Later on, braces are fabricated in a laboratory which offers few choices, even gold!

Unfortunately, not every patient is a good candidate for lingual braces. Gum problems, issues with biting and small lingual surfaces are the most common contraindication for lingual braces. Patients who have those issues are advised to consider other types of braces.

Regarding functionality, bracket and wires are still the main components. Placed onto teeth lingual surfaces they are applying a force that rearranges. There are some advantages and shortcomings for this type of braces that need to be mentioned. On the positive side, lingual braces are a highly aesthetical appliance, perfect for people that require that feature. Practically invisible. On the other hand, there are some drawbacks as well. As we mentioned before, some patients are not suitable for them. Period of accommodation is fairly short, but it is proven a bit tricky for the tongue to adapt to crowded space and pointy brackets.

There has to be a special mention of the oral hygiene topic. Every type of braces has the ability to retain food but this one especially. Because of the position, it is a lot harder to clean thus having food residue can easily turn into plaque. Plaque and low oral hygiene lead to decay, cavities and gum inflammation. One more thing that has to do with the position of lingual braces is the amount of force they allow during therapy. Pure physics states that inward position doesnt allow strong forces to be used, making therapy with those braces last a bit longer.

Lingual braces are the best option for people who fulfill the requirements for wearing such appliances and at the same time dont want to show that is going through treatment. Orthodontic Center Los Angeles can help you.

Self-ligating braces, or commonly known as Damon braces are a variation of regular metal braces, the difference being in the absence of ligatures. Metal braces consist of three parts, brackets, archwire, and ligatures, while self-ligating only of two, they are ligatures free. Traditional metal, lingual or ceramic braces have their archwire held in place with elastic ligatures while self-ligating braces are equipped with brackets that dont require ligatures.

Active brackets have a small spring loaded doors that hold the archwire, while passive ones dont have that spring. Passive ones are manually operated by the orthodontist. Passive brackets are smaller, and they provide housing for smaller wires, thus they are usually used at the beginning of treatment. Smaller wires apply less force, which is recommended when starting any braces therapy.

Maintaining oral hygiene is proven to be difficult when having appliances inside the mouth, but the fewer the parts make it easier to clean. Ligatures are the ideal place for remained food and plaque to collect, and with that out of the picture, this type of braces are much easier to maintain.

The main advantage of self-ligating braces is the treatment time, and due to physics, it is fairly reduced. Archwires shift the teeth to desired position much faster once ligatures are out of the way because the whole force that they generate is directly applied onto teeth. There is no dispersing on elastic ligatures. It is noticed that they reduce an average of 6 months of therapy time. Interesting point of view is that once there are no ligatures to adjust and replace, visits during treatment are reduced and time between them is prolonged.

Although being visually similar to the common eye, self-ligating braces are not the same as traditional metal ones. Small details like a lack of ligatures can have a positive effect on oral hygiene and health, improve quality of life and reduce visits while on therapy and shorten it as well. Some of the terms describing self-ligating braces are Smart Brackets and Damon braces. On the other hand, self-ligating braces have similarities with traditional braces. Advancements in technology and materials are giving new horizons, possibilities of making them out of ceramics and glass-like materials. Not to be ignored, they can be placed like lingual ones, on the inner portion of the teeth, oriented to the tongue.

Ceramic braces are more aesthetically pleasing than traditional metal ones. Although not completely transparent, they are manufactured in various shades which makes blending with the teeth highly efficient. In some case, they seem barely visible. Obviously, that makes them very popular amongst young adults as well as the adults themselves. Functionally and mechanically speaking, ceramic braces work in the same way as metal ones do. Their power lies on the archwire and its ability to apply force onto the teeth, shifting them into desired and carefully planned place.

On the other hand, brackets retain the same role as well. This time they are made from ceramics or glass-like materials that provide high aesthetical values to the whole construction. Light and color translucency provided by those materials are helping them blend in as much as possible. Unlike metal ones, ceramic brackets have their shortcomings. Because of the materials, they are made of they are susceptible to chipping and breaking more easily than metal ones. Not only that, but they are also prone to stains. When having ceramics braces patients need to take care and needless to say having good oral hygiene is a must.

In terms of finances, ceramic braces are positioned in a higher price range than metal ones. It is all due to the cost of the materials used. That is why, not so rarely, many patients go for a mixed combination of two ceramic brace for the upper teeth and regular metal ones for lower, less visible teeth. A solution that is not that much expensive but aesthetically pleasing.

Another fancy gimmick used in combination with ceramic braces is frosted archwire. Since brackets are already matching the color of teeth, archwire can be glazed in order to mimic the effect. This is a custom feature, not that popular though, which utilizes the whole camouflage effect of the ceramic brackets. Once everything is it submitted to the aesthetics there shouldnt be a metal bar across the teeth colored brackets.

As a conclusion of the above text, ceramic braces are an aesthetic orthodontic appliance capable of performing and achieving the same results as the traditional metal ones. Because they are not as mechanically solid as metal ones, forces applied to them during therapy are a bit smaller, this gently prolonging therapy time. Other than that, a great solution for people who want their therapy to be less noticeable. Orthodontic Center LA will provide you the famous Hollywood smile.

Today there are many adults who desire straighter teeth and they are wearing braces too. Orthodontics can help people of any age align that perfect smile. Braces are made from metal, ceramics or even gold, in different colors and different placement, on the outer or inner side of tooth arch. Used as a standard for many decades, they are not only good for misaligned teeth but in resolving some jaw related issues as well. Although a good fit, they require some time to get used to. Whether or not they are made out of metal or ceramics, it takes time for oral tissues to adapt. Tongue and cheeks especially. They tend to be sore for the first couple of weeks from all that friction with braces. Certainly not a pleasant experience but it goes away after a quick period of time.

Oral hygiene while having braces is an entity on its own. Very difficult to achieve good oral hygiene at the beginning of therapy, only after some practice patients start to get it right. It takes lot more time because of all of those small parts, food gets easily stuck and wont come out of its own. Other than brush and floss, the interdental brush comes in handy pretty often. It is important for a patient to understand that this is imperative because remaining food can cause decay, cavities, gum inflammation and prolong time with braces on. This is just an unnecessary risk.

Visibility of braces comes up as a very important feature for some patients. They range from clearly visible (metal ones) to less visible (ceramic ones) and invisible (lingual ones). Patients that are not concerned with visibility are usually interested in technical features that proposed braces provide. While at the same time, patients who find aesthetic an imperative are offered various solutions, each of them coming with a price to choose from. Metal braces are the cheapest ones, while others cost a bit more depending on the type and materials used.

Having orthodontic therapy doesnt imply that it always has to be noticeable. One common thing for any type of braces, including Invisalign aligners, are after therapy retainers. As the name suggests, they ensure that the therapy result remains unchanged.

Financial aspect should never be ignored, but there is no simple answer to this question since there are a lot of factors involved in the whole process. For example complexity of therapy, type of braces that are going to be used, its components. Duration of treatment and number of visits required, previous work and the status of dental clinic and orthodontists qualification can have some impact too.

It is painless to have braces fitted, however, the majority of patients experience discomfort 4-6 hours later, when the teeth begin moving. This usually peaks at the 24 hour mark, after which the discomfort subsides.

Braces are usually used as they are the most precise and effective way to straighten teeth. Some problems can be treated with simpler or alternative devices such as removable plates. An orthodontist will be able to advise what is most suitable for your child.

Reviews

Rating 4.8 out of 5 based on 47 reviews

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Leslie Gold
2 years ago
Dr. J - Kind, attentive, knowledgeable and has dramatically improved the position and look of my teeth. Well worth the drive to the Palisades!


Jeni Avina
2 years ago
Dr. Jacobson and Dr. Dorfman are two of the best doctors I've received treatment from. They are both very kind, patient, and caring. They will listen to all concerns, even the smallest details they care about. They strive to make your experience and treatment comfortable and get the results you want. I am one very satisfied patient.


simon javaheri
2 years ago
After having so many treatments that were not successful, Dr Jacobson exceeded all expectations, don't waste your time going anywhere else!


Ed Andrews
2 years ago
Outstanding service from the entire staff and a treatment plan that exceeded all expectations.


Christine Kanoff
2 years ago
Dr. Jacobson is the BEST orthodontist. I've known Dr. J for almost 30 years, and he is one of the most loyal and detail oriented professionals out there. I can't say enough good things about being a patient here, and of the results that I have received. I came to Dr. J as a kid with a bit of a problematic smile and bite, and he has made my smile over the years look perfect. Dr. J doesn't stop with good enough, but rather he goes the extra mile to make sure you have a movie star smile. His entire team is also amazing - from the front desk, to the x-ray team, to the technicians, everyone is so friendly and makes you feel like you are at a spa! The team does an excellent job of making sure you don't wait too long, and that all of your questions are answered each appointment. Orthodontic Center LA is the best place to go for anything teeth related - you will not be disappointed !!


Teresa Golden
2 years ago
I am thrilled to be a patient of Dr. Jacobson! I'd been to another orthodontist who was not able to correct my smile. When I saw Dr. Jacobson he knew exactly what to do. His adjustments have given me a perfect smile and bite. He is brilliant, attentive and thorough. I will refer my friends without hesitation Teresa


Gabriella Grahek
2 years ago
Absolutely fabulous. Dr. Jacobson knows what he is doing, is very generous, and the staff are lovely. Super grateful for the incredible care!


Leonard Brisco Jr
2 years ago
Everything about my two visits to Dr J's office was great. All of the staff was gracious and helpful, Dr J is a very talented orthodontist. He will be the first call I make if I ever need work done on my teeth. I highly recommendDr Jacobson.


Natalie Amoils
2 years ago
Dr. Jacobson is the absolute best! Beautiful office, friendly staff, incredible orthodontist! Great results. I wouldn't go to anyone else!


Danielle Tabak
2 years ago
I have been suffering with TMJ pain for many years. I googled best doctors in Los Angeles for TMJ and decided to try Dr. Jacobson. Visiting Dr. Jacobson's office was a true pleasure. All the staff I met were so kind, helpful, professional and made me feel so comfortable. Very rarely do I go to a doctor's office and can actually say everyone was so sweet and kind! Dr. Jacobson is one of the first doctors to really listen to my concerns and answer all my questions. Dr. Jacobson was really patient with me, he took his time and didn't rush the process. Dr. Jacobson was extremely knowledgeable and had state-of-the-art technology that really examined my teeth/jaw. After Dr. Jacobson diagnosed my condition, he educated me on both conservative and more invasive options I could take. The level of care I got was beyond any other doctor I have visited for my problem. Hands down, great experience!!


Mom SBCD
2 years ago
We are so happy that we chose Dr. Jacobson for orthodontia treatments for my kids! They are both (ages 12 & 14) currently using Invisalign and I'm amazed by the results. And the office experience has been phenomenal. Everyone there is sweet and professional. One thing that I really appreciate is that Dr. Jacobson actually talks to my kids and asks them about their experience and questions. I would highly recommend Dr. Jacobson and his staff!


Justin Sinclair
2 years ago
Fantastic office and people. I trust them completely!


Isaac Chevako
2 years ago
Dr. Jacobson is a wizard. I'm on Invisalign tray 20/23 and the results are nothing short of incredible so far. The staff is responsive and passionate and I have nothing but great things to say. Looking forward to seeing the final product. I work in sales for a top tech company and wouldn't trust anyone else with my face!


Anna Gawlinski
2 years ago
Dr. Richard Jacobson at the Orthodontic Center of Los Angeles is an excellent orthodontist. His attention to detail is exceptional. I consider him the "Michelangelo" of orthodontia. I consistently receive compliments on my smile because of his fantastic expertise and skill.


katherine jacobson
3 years ago
Every time I go in I know I'll be in good hands as they have the most intelligent, bright people working there all under one roof. I've never seen anything like it. And I have a gorgeous smile to show for it; I came in with crooked teeth that grew in all sorts of weird ways and a crooked jaw and they totally transformed my smile. I can't tell you how many times someone has complimented how gorgeous my smile is since then. I've also gotten my wisdom teeth out there. I even got a very small filler done under my eyes which was something I was incredibly nervous about given I've never done anything like that before. I was taken care of through the whole process and they managed my anxiety with grace! I can only describe what they do there as an art, they're just on another level. I wouldn't consider going to anyone else but the stellar team Dr. J has built over the years.


Isaac Chevako
3 years ago
Dr. Jacobson is a wizard. I'm on Invisalign tray 20/23 and the results are nothing short of incredible so far. The staff is responsive and passionate and I have nothing but great things to say. Looking forward to seeing the final product. I work in sales for a top tech company and wouldn't trust anyone else with my face!


Teresa Golden
3 years ago
I am thrilled to be a patient of Dr. Jacobson! I'd been to another orthodontist who was not able to correct my smile. When I saw Dr. Jacobson he knew exactly what to do. His adjustments have given me a perfect smile and bite. He is brilliant, attentive and thorough. I will refer my friends without hesitation Teresa


Danielle Tabak
3 years ago
I have been suffering with TMJ pain for many years. I googled best doctors in Los Angeles for TMJ and decided to try Dr. Jacobson. Visiting Dr. Jacobson's office was a true pleasure. All the staff I met were so kind, helpful, professional and made me feel so comfortable. Very rarely do I go to a doctor's office and can actually say everyone was so sweet and kind! Dr. Jacobson is one of the first doctors to really listen to my concerns and answer all my questions. Dr. Jacobson was really patient with me, he took his time and didn't rush the process. Dr. Jacobson was extremely knowledgeable and had state-of-the-art technology that really examined my teeth/jaw. After Dr. Jacobson diagnosed my condition, he educated me on both conservative and more invasive options I could take. The level of care I got was beyond any other doctor I have visited for my problem. Hands down, great experience!!


Natalie Amoils
3 years ago
Dr. Jacobson is the absolute best! Beautiful office, friendly staff, incredible orthodontist! Great results. I wouldn't go to anyone else!


Mom SBCD
3 years ago
We are so happy that we chose Dr. Jacobson for orthodontia treatments for my kids! They are both (ages 12 & 14) currently using Invisalign and I'm amazed by the results. And the office experience has been phenomenal. Everyone there is sweet and professional. One thing that I really appreciate is that Dr. Jacobson actually talks to my kids and asks them about their experience and questions. I would highly recommend Dr. Jacobson and his staff!


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