Meet Dr. Kathleen Nuckles

I feel that I am extremely fortunate to be in such a terrific profession which allows me to create beautiful smiles that will light up a room. I really enjoy the social aspect, getting to know everyone and swapping stories, laughing, and getting to know new people all the time. Our office is a very happy place; everyone loves to be here and it really shows. My life has been so enriched by the friendships of so many patients over the years. There is nothing better than running into an old patient when they show you their gorgeous smile. People often ask me when I'm going to retire. Why would I want to retire? I'm having too much fun!

I am a native of Los Angeles and now live in Santa Monica with my husband of over 25 years, and our cat, Obie. In my free time I enjoy traveling and hiking, and I have always been a bit of a car nut.

Education

My undergraduate degree was in art, though I changed into orthodontics later because I really liked the idea of working in a profession that combined art and science. I love making a smile look as beautiful as possible. Having an artistic eye allows me to really see the patient as a whole so they not only function well, but look as good as possible.

Bachelor of Arts – University of California Irvine
Dental Hygiene Degree – UCLA/LACC
Doctor of Dental Surgery – UCLA School of Dentistry Center for Health Science Medical Center
Post Graduate Orthodontic Residency – University of California San Francisco

Continuing Education

In order to provide my patients with the best care possible, I take regular continuing education courses to keep up with latest technology and innovations. I also lecture to local study clubs and hygiene groups about Invisalign®. As an Alpha Doctor, I was one of the first 26 doctors in the country to beta test Invisalign before it was released to the general public. I have vast experience because I was using it before anyone else!

Positions and Accomplishments

I've been on the faculty of the UCLA School of Dentistry for over 15 years. I love working with the residents and teaching them to be the best they can be. Teaching forces me to stay current, because the students question everything! I don’t just need to know how to do something, but why it’s important.

California Dental Association, Judicial Council, Trustee, 1992-2006
Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, Budget and Finance Committee, Director, 2002 to present
California Association of Orthodontists, Director, Treasurer, Immediate Past President, 1999 to 2009
Pierre Fauchard Academic Award, Fellow, 1981
Instructor Award, UCLA, Excellence in Orthodontics, 1998-1999
Faculty of the Year, UCLA Section of Orthodontics, 2004

Professional Memberships

I've been very involved in the orthodontic and dental communities for years. I was the president of our local dental society, past president of the Los Angeles Association of Women Dentists, and am very active in the California Association of Orthodontics. I've participated a lot in organized dentistry because I believe it’s important to give back to my profession.

American Association of Orthodontists

On this site, you can learn about orthodontists—specialists in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The correction of tooth and jaw alignment results in a healthy, attractive smile that's good for life.

www.braces.org

American Dental Association (ADA)

The ADA is the professional association of dentists committed to the public's oral health, ethics, science and professional advancement.

www.ada.org

Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists

The Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists is a professional organization of orthodontic specialists whose mission is to help its members provide the highest level of care to the public, and supporting the successful practice of orthodontics.

Kathleen J. Nuckles, DDS