Is Clover Orthodontic Studio still open?
Yes! We’ve simply rebranded as McComb Orthodontics, offering the same great care under a unified name.
Where Can I Get an Invisalign Near Me?
Finding an Invisalign dentist near you can be straightforward with a few simple steps. Start by searching online for “Invisalign treatment near me,” “Invisalign dr near me,” or “Invisalign dentist near me.” Check reviews to understand patient satisfaction and the orthodontist’s reputation. You can also ask friends, family, coworkers, or your general dentist for recommendations. Finally, confirm that the provider is a licensed orthodontic specialist who uses modern, digital treatment technology—something you can typically verify on their website or by calling the office.
At McComb Orthodontics in West Hollywood, patients have access to a highly experienced team specializing in Invisalign treatment. Led by Dr. Ryan McComb, Dr. Oscar Reyna-Blanco, and Dr. Alex Layton, our practice combines advanced orthodontic expertise with a boutique, patient-first experience. Whether you’re looking to subtly straighten your smile or address more complex alignment concerns, we tailor every Invisalign treatment plan to your unique goals and lifestyle.
Located just steps from Santa Monica Boulevard, McComb Orthodontics offers modern digital scanning technology, convenient scheduling options, and personalized care for patients across West Hollywood and the surrounding areas. We also provide complimentary consultations, giving you the opportunity to explore your treatment options and get a feel for our office before beginning your Invisalign journey.
Do you offer clear braces or Invisalign?
Absolutely! We offer both clear ceramic braces and Invisalign options for kids, teens, and adults.
Will orthodontics help my child’s breathing?
Yes. We view teeth and airway as a connected system. A constricted maxilla (upper jaw) often equates to a constricted nasal airway. By using skeletal expansion techniques, we can physically increase the volume of the nasal cavity and reduce nasal resistance.
Why treat this early? Correcting a narrow airway during the developmental growth phase (ages 7–10) prevents permanent skeletal deformations, such as the “long face” syndrome associated with chronic mouth breathing.
Our Protocol: We utilize 3D CBCT scans to measure your child’s airway volume before and after treatment to quantify the improvement in airflow.
Do you take insurance?
Yes, we accept all PPO dental insurance plans and offer flexible financing options.
Can I speed up my treatment? How long does it usually take?
We know our West Hollywood patients value efficiency, which is why we are an authorized provider of OrthoPulse®. While standard treatment typically lasts 12–24 months, using OrthoPulse for just 10 minutes a day can reduce that timeline significantly.
How it works: OrthoPulse uses safe, low-level light energy (photobiomodulation) to stimulate the bone surrounding your tooth roots. This increases cellular activity, allowing teeth to move faster and with less resistance.
Added Benefit: Beyond speed, the light therapy helps reduce the discomfort often associated with new aligner trays or wire adjustments.
The Result: You get the same perfect smile, but you spend less time in treatment.
Do you treat students from schools in West Hollywood and Hollywood?
Yes—we see patients from all area schools are nearby Hollywood Schoolhouse, Larchmont Charter, West Hollywood Elementary School, the Center for Early Education, and Fairfax High School.
Directions to McComb Orthodontics West Hollywood from Hollywood Schoolhouse
Directions to McComb Orthodontics West Hollywood from Larchmont Charter School
Directions to McComb Orthodontics West Hollywood from The Center for Early Education
Directions to McComb Orthodontics West Hollywood from Fairfax High School
Are you located near The Grove LA or the Beverly Center?
Our office is only minutes away from both The Grove and Beverly Center, making it easy to stop by for a quick Invisalign or braces appointment while shopping.
Directions to McComb Orthodontics West Hollywood from The Grove LA
Do you provide orthodontic care for families living near Melrose, Fairfax, or Beverly Hills?
Definitely! We serve patients from all areas, including West Hollywood, Melrose, Fairfax District, Hancock Park, and Beverly Hills.
Can professionals from entertainment stop by our office?
Yes—many of our patients work at nearby studios and agencies such as Paramount Pictures, Netflix, and Sunset Gower Studios. We offer flexible scheduling to fit busy production calendars.
What is the difference between a licensed orthodontist and a board-certified orthodontist in West Hollywood?
In California, all orthodontists practicing in West Hollywood are licensed, but only about 30 percent of orthodontists nationwide go on to become board certified. Board certification involves significantly exceeding the standard educational and achievement requirements. In addition to dental school and specialty training, a board-certified orthodontist completes three additional years of advanced education and must pass a rigorous qualifying examination. This extra commitment demonstrates a higher level of dedication to the field and to patient care. For families in West Hollywood seeking orthodontic treatment, choosing a board-certified orthodontist means working with a specialist who has pursued the highest level of training and achievement available in the profession.
Can you eat chips (like Cheez-Its, Cheetos, or Pringles) with braces?
Yes, softer snacks like Cheez-Its and Cheeto Puffs are safe with braces, but hard chips (like tortilla chips, kettle chips, or crunchy Pringles) can risk breaking your brackets. If you’re grabbing a bite near our West Hollywood office, stick to softer choices from local favorites like Vons on Sunset Boulevard or Erewhon Market on Beverly Boulevard. Many patients stop in after shopping around the Sunset Strip, working near Ticketmaster headquarters, or visiting Beverly Hills—and they find it easy to grab braces-friendly snacks when they know what to look for.
What are the best snacks to eat with braces?
Braces-friendly snacks include soft foods like yogurt, smoothies, bananas, applesauce, and softer crackers. In West Hollywood, a smoothie from Joe & The Juice on Sunset Boulevard or a yogurt bowl from Pinkberry on Beverly Drive are great options that won’t damage braces. Whether you’re heading down the Sunset Strip, passing by Ticketmaster headquarters, or meeting friends in Beverly Hills, you can easily find snacks that are safe for your smile.
Can I eat meals like burritos, ramen, noodles, or mac & cheese with braces?
Yes—soft meals like burritos, ramen, noodles, and mac & cheese are perfectly fine with braces. Just avoid crunchy toppings or hard shells. Patients near our West Hollywood office often enjoy burritos from Trejo’s Tacos on La Brea or ramen from JINYA Ramen Bar on Santa Monica Boulevard after an appointment. Whether you’re hanging out on the Sunset Strip, near Ticketmaster headquarters, or headed into Beverly Hills, these softer meals are tasty and braces-safe.
Can I eat French fries, granola, or other crunchy foods with braces?
French fries are fine with braces if they’re soft, but crunchy foods like granola can be risky since hard pieces may break brackets. Instead, go for softer alternatives like oatmeal, yogurt with fruit, or softer fries. In West Hollywood, patients often stop for fries at Shake Shack on Santa Monica Boulevard or oatmeal bowls at Urth Caffé on Melrose Avenue after appointments. These softer foods are easy to enjoy while exploring the Sunset Strip, working near Ticketmaster headquarters, or spending time in Beverly Hills.
Are clear braces better than metal braces?
Clear (ceramic) and metal braces both work; your choice is about aesthetics vs. durability. Clear braces are discreet and popular for on-camera or public-facing work, while metal braces are the workhorse option for challenging tooth movements. For many cases, treatment time is similar; for a few complex movements, metal can be more efficient. Visit us between errands on Sunset Boulevard or the Sunset Strip—if you’re near the Ticketmaster headquarters or coming from Beverly Hills, we’ll walk you through both systems and match the option to your timeline and lifestyle.
Do clear braces stain or change color?
Ceramic brackets don’t really stain—it’s usually the clear ligature ties that pick up color between appointments. We swap those ties routinely, and most patients do great with normal eating plus smart hygiene. If you’re sipping espresso on Sunset Boulevard, dining along the Sunset Strip, or meeting near Ticketmaster HQ or Beverly Hills, just rinse after darker foods and brush when you can. Prefer to keep things ultra-clear for events? Ask us about tie changes before big dates and aesthetic wire options.
Do clear braces work as fast and as well as metal braces?
Yes—clear braces can match metal braces in effectiveness for most patients. In select situations with higher forces or intricate movements, metal can have a small advantage in durability and control. We’ll show you where that matters (if at all) in your plan. A lot of professionals who spend time on Sunset Boulevard, the Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills, or near Ticketmaster headquarters opt for clear on the social “smile zone” and metal in less visible spots to balance discretion and speed.
What orthodontic procedures do orthodontists perform?
Serving West Hollywood, McComb Orthodontics treats tooth and jaw alignment with Invisalign® clear aligners, clear or metal braces, early/interceptive treatment for children (growth guidance, palatal expansion), retainers, TMD/TMJ bite therapy, and surgical orthodontics (pre- and post-orthognathic care). Our planning is airway-aware and jaw-guided to achieve straighter teeth, a comfortable bite, healthy function, and a smile that suits your face. We collaborate closely with Los Angeles oral and maxillofacial surgeons when corrective jaw surgery is appropriate. See the jaw-surgery FAQs below for timing and costs.
Is the cost of treatment at your West Hollywood location all-inclusive?
Absolutely. We offer a straightforward, all-in-one fee structure for our West Hollywood patients. We don’t believe in surprise upcharges. Your comprehensive quote covers your entire smile transformation, specifically:
Digital Diagnostics: Full X-rays, high-def photos, and 3D iTero scans.
Complete Clinical Care: All office visits, routine adjustments, and even emergency check-ins.
Post-Treatment: Your first set of retainers is included to protect your investment and lock in your new smile.
What is orthognathic (corrective) jaw surgery—and when is it needed in Los Angeles?
Costs on services (such as the average cost of brace) , can vary widely based on procedure type, hospital vs. surgery center, anesthesia, surgeon fees, imaging, and—crucially—insurance coverage. Published self-pay estimates for maxillomandibular advancement (MMA)—often used for underbite correction or sleep-apnea surgery—range roughly from $40,000–$100,000 in some national reports, though other sources cite lower totals depending on setting and coverage. Always request an individualized quote and an insurance predetermination. In West Hollywood and greater Los Angeles, many oral surgeons are in-network and can help secure partial coverage. Local OMS groups (e.g., the Los Angeles Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery) will work directly with you and your insurer to determine exact costs; a consult with the surgeon is required for an accurate figure. We’ll coordinate surgical planning and provide the orthodontic phases before and after your surgery.
TMD vs. TMJ—what’s the difference, and what symptoms should I watch for?
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.
Can I mix clear and metal braces—or use clear braces with a metal wire?
Yes—you can mix clear and metal to suit your priorities. A common setup is clear on the upper front teeth and metal on lower or back teeth for strength. The wire itself is generally metal, with optional aesthetic-coated wires to soften the look (coatings may chip with use). We’ll show you side-by-side samples so you can decide what feels right. Whether you’re between meetings on Sunset Boulevard, walking the Sunset Strip, commuting from Beverly Hills, or near the Ticketmaster headquarters, we’ll tailor the blend to your day-to-day visibility needs.
What is the ALF appliance (Advanced Lightwire Functional)—also called an ALF expander, ALF palate expander, or ALF mouth appliance—and how does it compare to Invisalign?
Some orthodontic offices use an ALF appliance (Advanced Lightwire Functional)—also called an ALF expander, ALF palate expander, ALF mouth appliance, ALF orthodontics/ALF ortho, or simply ALF dental—to gently encourage healthier jaw and tooth positions. Goals often include better alignment, airway support, bite comfort, and overall facial balance (many patients search “ALF appliance before and after” for examples).
At McComb Orthodontics in West Hollywood, we pursue those same goals with Invisalign® clear aligners rather than a wire appliance. Invisalign is nearly invisible, removable for meals, straightforward to clean, and generally easy to live with day-to-day. Like the ALF approach, our Invisalign protocols look far beyond “straight teeth” to support:
Guided jaw development for healthy growth and arch form
Breathing and airway function through growth-minded planning
Reduced strain on the jaw joints (TMJ) by improving bite relationships
Lasting facial balance by harmonizing tooth position with the face
In short: if you’re researching “ALF appliance teeth,” “ALF treatment,” “clear vs metal braces,” or “ALF appliance before & after,” know that Invisalign can target these broader wellness-oriented objectives—with minimal lifestyle disruption and excellent aesthetics. If you’d like to compare options, we’re happy to build a personalized West Hollywood treatment plan focused on airway, bite comfort, facial balance, and a great smile.
What are the signs of a bad orthodontist?
Choosing an orthodontist in Beverly Hills can feel overwhelming—there are so many options, promises, and price points that it’s hard to know what truly matters. Use this guide to spot the red flags and understand what a great first visit should include, so you can choose 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 wary of 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 Beverly Hills or nearby, we’re happy to walk you through our process step-by-step and give you a clear written plan you can take home.
Will my child outgrow a “gummy smile” (little teeth, big gums)?
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 (Beverly Hills & West Hollywood families + braces options)
Reassurance & monitoring: Many kids grow out of it as adult teeth settle—especially around mixed dentition ages.
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 Beverly Hills/West Hollywood 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.
Is Dr. McComb a member of professional orthodontic boards?
Absolutely. Our West Hollywood patients expect the best, and Dr. McComb’s credentials reflect that level of elite care. He is an active leader in the top-tier organizations for our profession:
American Board of Orthodontics (ABO): As a Board Certified Orthodontist, Dr. McComb has voluntarily undergone peer-reviewed exams to prove his clinical skills are at the “mastery” level.
American Association of Orthodontists (AAO): Membership here confirms his status as a dedicated specialist, ensuring he is always on the cutting edge of orthodontic technology.
American Dental Association (ADA) &
California Dental Association (CDA): These affiliations demonstrate our unwavering commitment to professional integrity and the “gold standard” of treatment.
Why this matters: You aren’t just getting braces or Invisalign; you are investing in a treatment plan designed by a recognized expert who operates at the absolute peak of the profession.
Do you accept complex cases or those requiring corrective jaw surgery?
Yes. We are a premier referral center for Complex Dentofacial Orthopedics, specifically managing cases that require high-level intervention. Dr. McComb works alongside Los Angeles’ top maxillofacial surgeons to deliver results for patients with severe skeletal discrepancies. Our clinical scope includes:Orthognathic Surgical Planning: We utilize Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP) to pre-visualize and execute movements for Class II and Class III skeletal corrections (retrognathia or prognathism), ensuring optimal facial balance and airway expansion.Skeletal Anchorage Systems: For non-surgical camouflage of complex bites, we employ TADs (Temporary Anchorage Devices) to achieve absolute intrusion or distalization that traditional braces cannot support. We collaborate with oral surgeons on these cases, who are in charge of placing the TADs.
Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation: We routinely manage cases requiring pre-prosthetic positioning (spacing for implants/veneers) and the surgical exposure of deeply impacted canines using 3D CBCT guidance.
The Protocol: Our approach is “facially driven.” We don’t just align the teeth; we engineer the bite to support soft tissue, improve profile esthetics, and maximize airway volume.
What can I expect regarding communication and treatment transparency?
Our West Hollywood patients value their time and clear answers. We respect that by offering a “No Surprises” policy.
Total Transparency: Before you start, you will receive a comprehensive roadmap of your treatment length, the exact biological goals we are aiming for, and an all-inclusive fee quote.
Direct Communication: We don’t hide behind a front desk. We utilize modern communication tools (like two-way texting) so you can get fast answers to your questions without playing phone tag.
Honest Opinions: We don’t push unnecessary treatments. If you only need a minor aesthetic touch-up rather than a full bite reconstruction, we will give you that option clearly.
What kind of patient experience can I expect at your West Hollywood studio?
We have ditched the traditional “clinical” feel for a modern, boutique experience that fits the West Hollywood lifestyle.
A Modern Aesthetic: Our office is sleek, high-tech, and vibrant. We want you to feel inspired by your environment, not anxious about a dental visit.
Efficiency First: We value your time. Our workflow is fully digital and streamlined, meaning minimal wait times and efficient appointments so you can get back to your day.
The Vibe: Our team is energetic and genuinely friendly. We cultivate an atmosphere that is professional yet relaxed—you’ll often hear laughter and good music, making your check-ins something you look forward to rather than dread.
How easy is it to fit appointments into a busy work schedule?
Our studio is perfectly positioned for patients living or working in the heart of West Hollywood.
Prime Location: We are conveniently located near the Pacific Design Center and the Sunset Strip, making us a quick stop for professionals in the design and entertainment industries.
Efficient Visits: Whether you are grabbing lunch on Melrose Ave or coming from Beverly Grove, our optimized scheduling means you can pop in and out without disrupting your day.
Respect for Your Time: We know traffic on Santa Monica Blvd can be unpredictable, so we keep our schedule efficient with virtually no wait times—perfect for a quick visit before heading to Runyon Canyon or meeting friends in the Design District.