About Us
We provide high-quality orthodontic care in a welcoming, professional environment where patients feel comfortable, confident, and genuinely supported at every visit.
Orthodontic care that feels personal from themoment you walk in
At Liberty Station Orthodontics, our goal is simple: to deliver excellent orthodontic results while making each visit a positive experience. We believe the best care strikes a balance between professionalism and warmth—being organized, on time, and thorough, while also friendly, familiar, and fun.
Our team takes the time to truly get to know our patients, explain treatment options clearly, and create an environment where families, kids, teens, adults, and military families feel at ease and supported throughout their orthodontic journey.
Board-certified orthodontist
Dr. Paul Upatham
About Dr. Upatham
Originally from Greenville, Texas, Dr. Paul Upatham is proud to live in and serve the San Diego community. As a board-certified orthodontist, he is passionate about helping patients achieve brighter, healthier smiles that build confidence and improve quality of life.
During his residency at USC, Dr. Upatham met his instructor and mentor, Dr. Richard McLaughlin, and went on to join his San Diego practice in 2004.
From the first complimentary consultation to the final visit, Dr. Upatham is readily available to patients and parents. He takes the time to understand each person’s clinical, aesthetic, and personal concerns, developing customized treatment plans that deliver smiles that are stable, functional, and naturally becoming.
Education & Training
Dr. Upatham earned his Bachelor of Arts in molecular and cell biology with honors from the University of California, Berkeley. He received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Baylor College of Dentistry, followed by his orthodontic specialty certificate and Master of Science in craniofacial biology from the University of Southern California.
Dedicated to advancing his expertise, Dr. Upatham completes extensive continuing education each year and remains an active member of the Spear Study Club. He also served for 12 years as a clinical instructor in the USC Orthodontic Department, where he helped educate and mentor the next generation of orthodontic professionals before concluding his academic appointment in 2019.
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 in La Jolla with his wife, their three children, and their Maltipoo, Bailey. Outside the office, he enjoys spending time on the soccer fields cheering on his kids, playing golf and tennis, relaxing at the beach, traveling, and supporting the Dallas Cowboys, despite the yearly heartbreak.
Golf is one of Dr. Upatham’s favorite pastimes and reflects many of the qualities he values in orthodontics: precision, patience, and the satisfaction that comes from doing something well.
Board-certified orthodontist
Dr. Katherine Wong
About Dr. Wong
A San Diego native, Dr. Katherine Wong knew from an early age that she wanted to become an orthodontist. She enjoys getting to know patients on a personal level and finds fulfillment in seeing confidence grow as smiles transform.
Dr. Wong views orthodontics as the perfect blend of science, medicine, and art. Working closely with each patient, she identifies both clinical and personal needs, designing individualized treatment plans that improve bite function, oral health, and overall appearance. Her goal is for every patient to finish treatment with a healthy, confident smile that lasts a lifetime.
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 completed her orthodontic specialty certificate and Master of Science in craniofacial biology at the University of Southern California.
As a board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Wong stays current with the latest proven techniques and technology through ongoing continuing education, always focused on making treatment more efficient, comfortable, and effective 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 of work, Dr. Wong enjoys spending time with family and friends. Between her toddler and her two French Bulldogs, life is full of chaos, entertainment, and so much joy.
Health and fitness play an important role in Dr. Wong's life. She enjoys running and strength training, and her current obsession is F45. As self-proclaimed foodie and avid traveler, she loves cooking, exploring new restaurants, and experiencing different cultures--especially through food.
We're here for you
Meet our team
Our team is friendly, experienced, and genuinely enjoys building relationships with our patients. You can expect a familiar, supportive environment where everyone works together to make your orthodontic experience smooth, comfortable, and stress-free.
Cindy
Office Administrator
Geena
Treatment Coordinator/Clinical Supervisor
Letisia
Treatment Coordinator
Gloria
Front Office Coordinator / Registered Dental Assistant
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Hajar
Patient Coordinator
Janett
Patient Coordinator
Marianna
Registered Dental Assistant
Stephanie P.
Registered Dental Assistant
Stephanie O.
Registered Dental Assistant
Luke
Registered Dental Assistant
Melisa
Registered Dental Assistant
Reina
Registered Dental Assistant
Kristina
Registered Dental Assistant
Madison
Dental Assistant
Lily
Dental Assistant
What to expect at your first orthodontic visit
Your first visit to Liberty Station Orthodontics is designed to be informative, comfortable, and pressure-free. We take the time to understand your concerns, show you what’s happening with your smile, and clearly explain your treatment options so you can make confident decisions.
Complimentary records and digital scan
Every new patient receives a complimentary iTero scan, along with photos and any necessary X-rays. If appropriate, we can even show a quick AI simulation of what your smile could look like after treatment.
One-on-one consultation with the doctor
Dr. Upatham or Dr. Wong personally reviews your records and spends time explaining what they see, how treatment would work, and what options make the most sense for your needs.
Clear next steps, no pressure
If you’re ready to start treatment, we’ll review scheduling, insurance, and financing. If not, that’s completely okay—we’re happy to follow up and answer questions when the time feels right.
Advanced technology and comforting amenities for precise, efficient care
iTero digital scanner
Our iTero scanner allows for fast, comfortable digital impressions and gives patients a visual preview of potential treatment results.
CBCT 3D imaging
CBCT technology provides detailed 3D imaging to support accurate diagnosis and thoughtful treatment planning.
Digital indirect bonding
Digital indirect bonding allows for precise bracket placement, helping improve comfort, efficiency, and overall treatment outcomes.
TVs and headphones at every chair
Patients can enjoy entertainment during appointments, so you can sit back and relax during your visit.
giving backto the community
we serve
we serve
Liberty Station Orthodontics is proud to partner with Embracing Our Warriors, a program dedicated to providing free orthodontic care for disabled veterans and, in some cases, their children. Supporting the military community is important to us, and this partnership allows us to give back in a meaningful way while caring for those who have given so much.