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About Us
At La Jolla Village Orthodontics, we believe exceptional care is at the center of everything we do. Our board-certified orthodontists combine clinical expertise with a highly personalized approach, creating treatment experiences that feel considered, comfortable, and entirely your own.
Orthodontic care that feels personal from themoment you walk in
Great orthodontic care begins with understanding the person behind the smile. That means taking the time to listen, paying attention to the details, and designing treatment around your individual needs, goals, and lifestyle.
At La Jolla Village Orthodontics, you can expect an intimate, welcoming environment where your care never feels rushed or routine. From your first consultation through your final result, our doctors and team are here to make every step feel seamless, informed, and personal.
Board-certified orthodontist
Dr. Paul Upatham
About Dr. Upatham
Originally from Greenville, Texas, Dr. Paul Upatham has built his career around creating healthy, beautifully balanced smiles through precise, personalized orthodontic care.
During his residency at the University of Southern California, Dr. Upatham met his instructor and mentor, Dr. Richard McLaughlin. That relationship ultimately brought him to San Diego, where he joined Dr. McLaughlin’s practice in 2004.
Today, Dr. Upatham brings that same commitment to excellence to every patient he treats. He takes the time to understand each person’s clinical needs, aesthetic preferences, and personal priorities before creating a treatment plan designed for lasting function, stability, and a naturally confident result.
Education & Training
Dr. Upatham earned his Bachelor of Arts in molecular and cell biology with honors from the University of California, Berkeley, followed by his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Baylor College of Dentistry. He then completed his orthodontic specialty certificate and Master of Science in craniofacial biology at the University of Southern California.
His commitment to learning has continued throughout his career. Dr. Upatham completes extensive continuing education, remains active in the Spear Study Club, and spent 12 years as a clinical instructor in the USC Orthodontic Department, helping educate and mentor future orthodontic professionals.
Professional memberships
- American Board of Orthodontics
- American Association of Orthodontists
- American Dental Association
- California Dental Association
- San Diego County Dental Society
- Spear Study Club
Beyond the practice
Dr. Upatham lives right here in La Jolla with his wife, their three children, and their Maltipoo, Bailey. When he is not caring for patients, you can often find him cheering from the sidelines at his kids’ soccer games, playing golf or tennis, spending time at the beach, traveling, or faithfully supporting the Dallas Cowboys.
Golf remains one of his favorite pastimes, reflecting many of the same qualities he values in orthodontics: precision, patience, and the satisfaction of getting the details just right.
Board-certified orthodontist
Dr. Katherine Wong
About Dr. Wong
A San Diego native, Dr. Katherine Wong knew early on that orthodontics was the career for her. Today, she finds the greatest reward in getting to know her patients personally and watching their confidence evolve alongside their smiles.
For Dr. Wong, orthodontics is equal parts science, medicine, and artistry. She considers every aspect of a patient’s needs, from bite and function to facial balance and aesthetics, before designing an individualized treatment plan. Her goal is not simply a straighter smile, but one that feels healthy, natural, and distinctly right for the person wearing it.
Education & Training
Dr. Wong earned her Bachelor of Science in biology from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of the Pacific. She went on to complete her orthodontic specialty certificate and Master of Science in craniofacial biology at the University of Southern California.
As a board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Wong continues to pursue advanced education in proven orthodontic techniques and technology, continually refining the way she makes treatment more precise, comfortable, and efficient for her patients.
Professional memberships
- American Board of Orthodontics
- American Association of Orthodontists
- American Dental Association
- California Dental Association
- California Association of Orthodontists
- Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists
- San Diego County Dental Society
Beyond the practice
Outside the office, Dr. Wong loves spending time with family and friends. Life with her toddler and two French Bulldogs keeps things lively, entertaining, and rarely quiet.
Health and fitness are also an important part of her routine, from running and strength training to her current F45 obsession. A self-proclaimed foodie and avid traveler, she enjoys cooking, discovering new restaurants, and experiencing new places through their food and culture.
The people behind your care
Meet our team
The experience at La Jolla Village Orthodontics extends to every member of our team. We are attentive, experienced, and genuinely invested in the people we care for. Expect familiar faces, clear communication, and a team that remembers the details. From scheduling your visits to celebrating your finished smile, we work together to make your experience feel effortless from beginning to end.
Tatiyana
Office Manager
Shantel
Lead Clinical Assistant
LeAndra
Treatment Coordinator
Janitza
Patient Care Coordinator
Anna
Dental Assistant
Sonia
Sterilization Expert
Your first visit with us
Your complimentary consultation is an opportunity to understand your smile, explore your options, and receive expert recommendations without feeling rushed or pressured.
We take the time to learn what matters to you, evaluate your orthodontic needs, and give you a clear understanding of what treatment could look like before you make any decisions.
Complimentary records and digital scan
We use digital scanning and photography to capture a detailed view of your smile comfortably and efficiently. Your orthodontist will review your records closely and let you know if any additional diagnostic information is needed.
Personalized consultation with your doctor
Dr. Wong or Dr. Upatham will personally evaluate your smile and talk through what they see, what they recommend, and which treatment options best align with your goals.
A clear path forward designed for your pace
You’ll leave with a better understanding of your treatment options, timing, and financial considerations. When you’re ready to move forward, we’ll make the next steps simple. Until then, there is never any pressure.
Modern technology,
seamlessly integrated
iTero digital scanner
Comfortable digital impressions allow us to capture a precise 3D representation of your smile without traditional impression material, giving both you and your orthodontist a clearer view from the very beginning.
Remote monitoring
For select treatments, digital monitoring can help our doctors follow your progress between visits, making it easier to stay connected to your care while reducing unnecessary time in the office.
Digital indirect bonding
Advanced digital planning allows us to position brackets with exceptional precision, supporting efficient treatment and highly considered results.
In-room entertainment
Each treatment space includes a TV to help you settle in and stay entertained throughout your visit. It’s a simple detail that makes appointments feel a little more comfortable, relaxed, and easy.
