Your Orthodontist in Culver City

We follow the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommendation: Age 7. While most children won’t need braces this early, Age 7 is the “magic window” where enough permanent teeth have erupted for Dr. McComb to spot hidden growth issues. We screen for crossbites, severe crowding, and airway restrictions (mouth breathing).

Why it matters: Catching these problems early allows us to use Phase 1 Interceptive Treatment to guide jaw growth naturally. For many Culver City families, this proactive step prevents the need for permanent tooth extractions or corrective jaw surgery during the teenage years.

Both work well! We’ll help you choose based on your teen’s lifestyle, goals, and treatment needs.

Searching for a top-rated “Invisalign dentist near me” doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by checking online reviews and asking for referrals from friends or your general dentist. Most importantly, ensure you choose a licensed orthodontic specialist who utilizes the latest digital treatment technology.

McComb Orthodontics brings this level of specialist care to Culver City. Our expert team—Dr. Ryan McComb, Dr. Oscar Reyna-Blanco, and Dr. Alex Layton—is dedicated to providing a boutique orthodontic experience. We specialize in customizing Invisalign treatments for everything from minor touch-ups to complex bite corrections, ensuring your smile fits your life perfectly.

Our Culver City office is equipped with the latest digital scanning tools (no messy impressions!) and offers convenient appointments to fit your busy schedule. We proudly serve the Culver City community and nearby areas. Ready to get started? Book a complimentary consultation today to meet the team and discover how we can transform your smile.

Yes, our pricing is 100% transparent and all-inclusive for our Culver City patients. We believe you should know the total cost upfront with absolutely no hidden fees. Your treatment fee covers every step of your smile journey, including:

Diagnostic Records: Full X-rays, photos, and 3D digital scans.

All Appointments: Every scheduled adjustment and check-up during treatment.

Emergency Visits: Unscheduled comfort visits if you have an issue.

Retention: Your first set of retainers is included to ensure your smile stays perfect after treatment ends.

Yes, we’re in-network with all PPO dental insurance plans.

Yes. At our Culver City studio, we practice Airway-Focused Orthodontics. Many common childhood issues—such as chronic mouth breathing, snoring, and even restless sleep—are actually caused by a narrow upper jaw (maxillary constriction).

The Connection: When the roof of the mouth is too narrow, it restricts the nasal floor and forces the tongue back into the throat, blocking the airway.

The Solution: Dr. McComb uses Rapid Palatal Expanders (RPE) and Invisalign Palatal Expanders to gently widen the upper arch. This opens the nasal passages and creates room for the tongue to rest properly.

Life-Changing Results: Parents often tell us that after expansion, their children sleep through the night, have more energy for

A typical comprehensive case takes 12 to 24 months, depending on how complex your bite is. However, we know that whether you are an adult professional or a teenager, you want to be finished as soon as possible. That is why we offer OrthoPulse®.

The Technology: This device uses safe, low-level light energy (photobiomodulation) to gently stimulate the bone around your teeth.

The Benefit: Using OrthoPulse for just 10 minutes a day can reduce treatment time by up to 50%.

Bonus for Comfort: It is also clinically proven to significantly reduce the soreness that comes with switching to a new set of Invisalign trays or getting a wire adjustment.

Absolutely. Our office is just minutes from the Sony Pictures Studios lot, Amazon Studios, and Apple TV+ offices. Many professionals working in Culver City stop by on their lunch break or after work for Invisalign and braces appointments.

We welcome patients from Palms, Venice, Santa Monica, Mar Vista, Playa Vista, Cheviot Hills, and West Adams, in addition to families right here in Culver City.

Yes—we provide early orthodontic treatment for children attending Echo Horizon, Turning Point, Willows Community School, Linwood Howe Elementary, and El Marino.

Very! We’re just a short drive from The Culver Steps, Platform, and Ivy Station, so families often combine an appointment with shopping or dining nearby.

Yes, you can eat softer chips like Cheez-Its or Cheeto Puffs with braces, since they tend to crumble instead of putting too much pressure on your brackets. Harder snacks like tortilla chips, kettle chips, or crunchy Pringles can break brackets and are best avoided. If you’re craving something quick in Culver City, softer snacks are easy to find at local spots like Jackson Market & Deli or Trader Joe’s near Fox Studios. Many of our patients pick up food after visiting Hillcrest Country Club, Cheviot Hills Park, or Rancho Park Golf Course, and we always remind them: stick to the soft options to keep your braces safe.

The best snacks for braces are soft and easy to chew—yogurt, smoothies, bananas, applesauce, and softer crackers like Cheez-Its or Goldfish. Avoid sticky or hard snacks that could damage your braces. In Culver City, patients often grab smoothies or yogurt bowls from Ugo Café or Nature’s Brew Café near Fox Studios. Families stopping by after sports at Cheviot Hills Park or golf at Rancho Park often bring their kids in with snacks from these spots because they’re braces-friendly and convenient.

Yes! Soft meals like burritos, ramen, noodles, and mac & cheese are braces-friendly, as long as they don’t include hard or sticky add-ins. For example, a bean-and-rice burrito is fine, but skip the tortilla chips on the side. In Culver City, our patients love grabbing burritos from Tito’s Tacos or a bowl of noodles at Mee & Greet Noodle Bar after visiting Fox Studios or finishing a round at Rancho Park Golf Course. These soft meals keep braces safe and your appetite satisfied.

French fries are usually safe with braces, as long as they’re not too crunchy. Granola, on the other hand, can be risky—hard clusters can damage your brackets or wires. If you want something similar, try softer granola bars or oatmeal-based snacks. Patients in Culver City often grab fries from The Culver Hotel’s restaurant or oatmeal bowls at Blue Bottle Coffee near Ivy Station, both of which are close to Fox Studios, Hillcrest Country Club, and Cheviot Hills Park.

Both clear (ceramic) and metal braces straighten teeth effectively; the “better” choice depends on your goals. Clear braces are less noticeable and blend with your teeth; they can be a touch bulkier and, in some complex cases, slightly less durable than metal. Metal braces are ultra-reliable for all movements and may be preferred for tough rotations or major bite changes. Day-to-day results are comparable in most cases; we’ll recommend the best option after a clinical exam. If you’re scheduling around Fox Studios, Hillcrest Country Club, Cheviot Hills Park, or Rancho Park Golf Course, we can plan a consult that fits your day and show you both systems side-by-side so you can choose confidently.

The ceramic brackets themselves are stain-resistant; what can discolor are the clear elastic ties that hold the wire. If you enjoy coffee, tea, curry, tomato sauces, or red wine, you might see the elastics tint slightly—these are replaced at adjustment visits. Good brushing, rinsing after colorful foods, and using a straw with dark drinks help keep things bright. If you’re coming from a lunch near Fox Studios or grabbing dinner after a game at Cheviot Hills Park or Rancho Park, a quick rinse or brush afterward goes a long way. We can also use tooth-colored wires and recommend wax or silicone ties designed to resist staining.

Yes. We take our commitment to the Culver City community seriously, which is why Dr. McComb maintains active membership in the most rigorous organizations in our field. He is proudly affiliated with:

American Board of Orthodontics (ABO): Dr. McComb is a Board Certified Orthodontist—a distinction held by only a minority of orthodontists that signifies the highest commitment to patient care and clinical excellence.

American Association of Orthodontists (AAO): This ensures you are being treated by a true specialist with years of extra training, not just a general dentist.

American Dental Association (ADA) & California Dental Association (CDA): These memberships guarantee our practice follows the strictest code of ethics and safety protocols for you and your family.

Why this matters: It means your family’s smile is in the hands of a proven expert who is held to the highest ethical and clinical standards in the country.

For the majority of cases, clear and metal braces move teeth at similar speeds and achieve the same results. Modern ceramics are efficient; however, for very complex biomechanics (severe rotations, significant bite corrections, or heavy elastics), we may recommend metal in specific areas for durability and friction control. Many patients choose clear on visible teeth and metal where efficiency matters most. We’ll map this out at your consult—and if you’re coordinating visits around Hillcrest Country Club, Cheviot Hills Park, or Rancho Park Golf Course, we can time adjustments to your schedule without slowing progress.

Absolutely. Many patients choose clear brackets on the top/front teeth for aesthetics and metal brackets on the lower/back teeth for durability and efficiency. Even with clear brackets, the archwire is typically metal (nickel-titanium or stainless steel); we can use tooth-colored (coated) wires early on for a more discreet look, understanding that coatings can wear over time. This “hybrid” approach gives you a great balance of appearance and performance. If you’re heading to Fox Studios or spending the afternoon at Rancho Park, we’ll design a setup that looks good in photos and works fast behind the scenes.

Costs vary widely based on procedure type, hospital vs. surgery center, anesthesia, surgeon fees, imaging, and—crucially—insurance coverage. Published estimates for maxillomandibular advancement (MMA)—often used for underbite correction or sleep-apnea surgery—range roughly from $40,000–$100,000 without insurance in some national estimates, though other sources cite lower totals depending on setting and coverage. Always request an individualized quote and insurance predetermination. Many oral surgeons are in-network with insurance companies and can help you get the cost of surgery at least partially covered. 

Local OMS groups in LA (for example, the Los Angeles Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery) will work closely with you and your insurance company to determine exact costs; you’ll need a consult directly with an oral surgeon for an accurate figure. We’ll coordinate surgical planning and provide the orthodontic phases before/after your surgery. (LACOMS)

Orthognathic (corrective) jaw surgery repositions one or both jaws to treat skeletal problems like severe underbite/overbite, crossbite, facial asymmetry, or airway collapse that can’t be corrected with orthodontics alone. It’s performed by an oral & maxillofacial surgeon (OMS), usually with braces or aligners before and after surgery to fine-tune the bite. Major LA centers (e.g., academic OMFS clinics and private OMS groups) evaluate candidacy and work jointly with your orthodontist. (UCLA School of Dentistry)

Quick note on terminology: TMJ is the joint, while TMD refers to disorders of the jaw joints and muscles (pain, clicking, limited opening). We manage many TMD issues orthodontically; true skeletal discrepancies may still need surgery. 

TMJ = the temporomandibular joint itself (everyone has two).

TMD = temporomandibular disorders—over 30 conditions affecting the joints and chewing muscles.
Common symptoms include jaw pain, clicking/popping, limited opening, headaches, ear fullness, and bite changes. Conservative care (bite balancing with orthodontics, splints, habits/physiotherapy) resolves most cases; surgery is rarely needed. If symptoms persist, a multi-disciplinary evaluation is best.

Orthodontists correct tooth and jaw alignment with treatments such as Invisalign® clear aligners, clear or metal braces, early/interceptive treatment for kids (growth guidance, palatal expansion), retainers, TMD/TMJ bite therapy, and surgical orthodontics (pre- and post-orthognathic care). At McComb Orthodontics, we focus on airway-aware, jaw-guided planning—so in addition to straight teeth, we aim for a comfortable bite, healthy function, and a smile that fits your face. We coordinate closely with oral and maxillofacial surgeons in Los Angeles when corrective jaw surgery is indicated. (See the jaw-surgery FAQs below for timing and costs.)

Some orthodontic offices use what’s called an ALF appliance (Advanced Lightwire Functional)—you’ll also see it described as an ALF expander, ALF palate expander, ALF mouth appliance, ALF orthodontics/ALF ortho, or simply ALF dental. It’s a light wire device designed to gently encourage the jaws and teeth to grow into healthier positions. The goals typically include improving alignment, breathing/airway support, bite comfort, and overall facial balance. (Patients often search for “ALF appliance before and after” to see examples of these changes.)

At our office, we pursue those same goals—but we do it with Invisalign clear aligners rather than a wire appliance. Invisalign is more comfortable, nearly invisible, and easier to live with day-to-day (on and off for eating, simple cleaning, minimal lifestyle disruption). Like the ALF approach, our Invisalign protocols look well beyond “straight teeth”:

– Guides jaw development to support healthy growth and arch form.
– Supports breathing and airway function with careful, growth-minded planning.
– Reduces strain on the jaw joints (TMJ) by improving bite relationships.
– Promotes lasting facial balance and aesthetics by harmonizing tooth position with the face.

In short: if you’re researching “ALF appliance teeth,” “ALF treatment,” “clear braces vs metal,” “braces clear brackets,” or “clear vs metal braces” and you’re curious whether you need a wire appliance, know that Invisalign can achieve these broader wellness-oriented objectives—without wires, without complicated cleaning, and with excellent comfort and aesthetics.
 
If you’d like to compare options—or you’re specifically looking for “ALF appliance before & after” type outcomes—we’re happy to walk you through a personalized plan using Invisalign that targets airway, bite comfort, and facial balance alongside a great smile.

Choosing an orthodontist in Baldwin Hills, Palms, or Westdale can feel like a lot—there are many offices, promises, and price points. This guide highlights the red flags and what a great first visit should include, so you can move forward with confidence.

1) What are the biggest red flags to watch for?
– No in-person exam or records before treatment. A proper diagnosis includes an exam and appropriate records (photos, scans, and X-rays when indicated).
– Poor infection-control habits. You should see clean instruments, gloves/masks, and clear sterilization routines.
– No informed-consent conversation. Risks, benefits, alternatives, and expectations should be explained and documented in plain language.
– Vague or misleading credentials. “Orthodontist” means a dentist with accredited specialty training; board certification is an added quality marker.
– One-size-fits-all treatment or “guaranteed” timelines/results. Every bite is different. Be cautious with promises like “everyone finishes in 6 months.”
– Pressure to start same day without a plan. You should receive a written treatment plan after records—not a sales pitch.
– Minimal doctor time or oversight. If you rarely see the doctor, quality and safety can suffer.
– Opaque pricing and surprise add-ons. You should get a total fee and what it includes (emergencies, refinements, retainers) up front.
– No help for issues between visits. There should be a clear process for pokey wires, broken brackets, or aligner problems.

2) What should a good first visit include?
– A real conversation about your goals (comfort, appearance, timing).
– Clinical exam + appropriate records (photos, digital scans, X-rays as indicated).
– Diagnosis and options (aligners vs. braces, or a combo), with pros/cons and realistic timelines.
– Transparent financials (total fee, what’s included, insurance/financing).
– Time for your questions—not a rushed handoff.

3) How can I quickly verify an orthodontist’s training?
– Specialty status: Confirm they are an orthodontic specialist (not just “offers braces”).
– Board certification: Ask if they’re certified by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO).-
– Professional engagement: Active membership in reputable organizations.
– Licensure: Current license and good standing with the state dental board.

4) What’s a healthy way to talk about fees and timelines?
– Clear, written total—no gotchas. Confirm what’s included: emergencies, refinements, retainers, follow-ups.
– Realistic timelines with the factors that could speed up or slow down treatment.
– Straightforward payment options (monthly plans, HSA/FSA when relevant).
– Focus on value, not just price—experience, monitoring, technology, and outcomes matter.

5) What questions should I bring to any consult?
– “Will you take records and review them before recommending treatment?”
– “What are my options (aligners vs. braces), and what are the trade-offs?”-
– “How will this plan protect my bite, airway/TMD health, and long-term stability?”
– “How often will I see you, and who does what at each visit?”
– “What’s the all-in fee and what exactly is included?”
– “Are you board-certified, and can I see similar cases?”
 
If you’re comparing options in Baldwin Hills, Palms, or Westdale, we’re happy to walk you through our process step-by-step and provide a clear written plan you can take home.

Yes. Our practice specializes in Interdisciplinary Complex Orthodontics, handling severe skeletal and dental malocclusions that fall outside the scope of standard treatment. Dr. McComb has extensive fellowship-level training in managing:

Surgical Orthodontics (Orthognathic Surgery): We coordinate directly with maxillofacial surgeons to correct severe skeletal discrepancies (Class III underbites, mandibular asymmetry, and vertical maxillary excess) that cannot be resolved with tooth movement alone.

Complex Impacted Teeth: We utilize CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) to surgically uncover and guide impacted canines or premolars into the arch without damaging adjacent roots.

Transverse & Vertical Deficiencies: We treat narrow airway arches and open bites using MARPE (Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion) and TADs (Temporary Anchorage Devices) for absolute skeletal anchorage.

The Protocol: For these cases, we employ a “Digital Twin” workflow, simulating your surgical outcome close collaboration with an oral surgeon colleague in 3D software before treatment begins to ensure precise occlusion and facial harmony.

We designed our Culver City studio to be a place where families actually enjoy spending time. We know that visiting the orthodontist is a routine part of your life, so we make it as pleasant and efficient as possible.

Respect for Your Time: We know parents are juggling busy schedules. We pride ourselves on running on time—you won’t be left sitting in the waiting room for 30 minutes past your appointment.

A “Living Room” Vibe: Our office is modern, bright, and exceptionally clean, but it feels more like a welcoming living room than a sterile clinic.

Kid-Approved: From our friendly staff who know your child by name to the comfortable atmosphere, we make sure even our youngest patients feel safe and happy to see us.

Easy Access: We are just minutes away from major landmarks like Sony Pictures Studios and Westfield Culver City (Fox Hills), making it easy to combine your visit with shopping or work.

Stress-Free Parking: Unlike many offices near Downtown Culver or the Arts District, we have ample, accessible parking so you never waste time circling the block.

Flexible Hours: Whether you are coming from Playa Vista, Mar Vista, or dropping kids off near Farragut Elementary, we offer early morning, late afternoon, and select Saturday appointments to minimize time away from school and work.

We pride ourselves on being the “honest orthodontist” in Culver City. We believe in a conservative, data-driven approach.

No Upselling: If your child isn’t ready, we will tell you. We often place children in our complimentary “Growth Guidance” program to monitor them for free until the time is exactly right.

Clear Education: Dr. McComb explains every step of the treatment plan in plain English—not dental jargon—so you understand exactly what we are doing and why.

Responsiveness: We know parents are busy. Whether you have a question about a loose wire or a scheduling conflict, our team is easy to reach via text, phone, or email.

Sometimes—yes. In many kids, a “gummy smile” shows up because baby teeth are shorter, adult teeth are still erupting, or the upper lip lifts high when smiling. As children grow, adult teeth emerge fully, gums settle, and the upper lip lengthens, so the smile often looks less “gummy.”

Common, normal reasons kids show extra gum
– Eruption timing: Adult front teeth (and later canines) are still coming in; crowns look short until gums “settle.”
– Tooth size vs. gum coverage: Some children have thicker gum tissue that thins with growth and good hygiene.
– Smile muscles/lip activity: A high smile line or hyperactive upper lip can show more gum during a big grin.

When it may not self-correct
– Altered passive eruption: Gums cover more enamel than usual even after adult teeth are fully in.
– Vertical maxillary excess (jaw growth pattern): The upper jaw grows longer vertically, showing more gum.
– Airway/posture habits: Mouth-breathing, chronic congestion, or low tongue posture can influence gum show and facial posture.
– Medication-related gingival overgrowth (less common in kids).

What you can do now
– Dial in daily hygiene (gentle brushing along the gumline, flossing) to calm puffy gums.
– Track with photos every 6 months while adult teeth erupt.
– Watch breathing habits: If you notice snoring or mouth-breathing, mention it—airway matters.

How we help (Culver City, Baldwin Hills & Palms families + braces options)
– Reassurance & monitoring: Many kids grow out of it as adult teeth settle—especially around the mixed-dentition years.
– Minor gum contouring (when appropriate): For fully erupted teeth still “hidden” by tissue, a conservative gingival recontour can reveal normal crown length.
– Orthodontics to balance the smile line: We use Invisalign® or braces (clear or metal) to fine-tune tooth position, eruption, and bite. Strategic movements can reduce gum display and improve smile harmony.
– Airway-first care: If mouth-breathing or allergies are part of the picture, we coordinate with pediatricians/ENT.
– Advanced options (for teens/adults, when indicated): Lip-repositioning, Botox® for a hyperactive upper lip, or orthognathic surgery for true vertical jaw excess—reserved for specific diagnoses.
 
Bottom line: Many children do outgrow a gummy smile as growth and eruption finish. If it persists after the front adult teeth have been in for ~12 months—or if you’re in Baldwin Hills or Palms and want clarity—book a consult. We’ll let you know whether simple monitoring, braces or Invisalign, minor gum shaping, or a combination will give your child a balanced, confident smile.

Yes. Our Culver City orthodontic practice proudly serves students from schools throughout the area, including Wildwood School, The Willows Community School, STAR Prep Academy, Echo Horizon School, Culver City Middle School, and Culver City High School. If you’re looking for a top Culver City orthodontist near me, whether your child needs braces, Invisalign treatment, or other orthodontic care, we work with families to accommodate school schedules and provide convenient appointment times.
Want a Culver City Orthodontist Near Me?

Culver City High School – 4 minute

Culver City Middle School – 4 minutes

Echo Horizon School – 12 minutes

STAR Prep Academy – 10 minutes

The Willows Community School – 11 Minutes

Turning Point School – 11 minutes