Orthodontist in Hawthorne, CA
Braces, Invisalign, and Early Orthodontic Care for Every Age
Schnierow Dental Care has two orthodontists on staff, so children, teens, and adults can get a full orthodontic evaluation and treatment in the same Hawthorne office where they see their dentist. There is no outside referral and no second office to keep track of. We serve families from Hawthorne, Lawndale, Inglewood, Torrance, Gardena, El Segundo, Westchester, and across the South Bay.
.avif)
Meet Our Orthodontists
Dr. Evelina Mendicini, DDS
earned her dental degree and orthodontic training at the University of Rome La Sapienza, holds a PhD in Maxillofacial Surgery from the University of Naples Federico II, and completed additional orthodontic and craniofacial training at USC. She treats children and adults.
Dr. Erik L. Southers, DDS
completed his undergraduate degree at Loyola Marymount University, then earned his DDS, orthodontic certificate, and a master's degree in craniofacial biology at USC.
Want to learn more about each of our dentists? Visit our Meet the Doctors page to explore their individual profiles, specialties, and patient-focused philosophy.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
Our orthodontists recommend the option that fits your bite, your goals, and your budget. Not sure which is right? Our Invisalign vs. Braces guide compares them side by side.
.avif)
Orthodontics for Kids and Teens
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Most children that age do not need braces yet, but an early look can catch crowding, crossbites, or jaw growth concerns while they are easier to guide. Our pediatric dentists and orthodontists work in the same office, so a child can move from checkups to orthodontic care with a team they already know. Learn more in Why Age 7 Is the Magic Number for Orthodontic Exams.
Orthodontics for Adults
Teeth can be moved at any age. Many adults come to us to fix crowding that returned after childhood braces, close gaps, or correct a bite that causes wear or jaw discomfort. Clear aligners are a popular choice for adults who want treatment to stay discreet at work.
What Happens at Your Orthodontic Consultation
- An orthodontist examines your teeth, bite, and jaw.
- Digital scans or X-rays show how your teeth and roots are positioned.
- You review treatment options, the expected timeline, and how each option fits your goals.
- Our team goes over cost, insurance coverage, and payment options before you decide.
Insurance and Financing
We accept all PPO dental plans and Medi-Cal Dental. Orthodontic coverage varies by plan, and Medi-Cal Dental generally covers orthodontics for patients under 21 who meet medical necessity criteria. Our team will check your benefits for you. Financing is available through CareCredit, Sunbit, Cherry, LendingClub, and in-house payment plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question text goes here
Answer text goes here
How do I know if I need an orthodontist?
Crowded or overlapping teeth, gaps, an overbite or underbite, teeth that do not meet when you bite, and jaw discomfort are all reasons to schedule an orthodontic evaluation.
At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
By age 7. Most children do not start treatment that early, but an evaluation shows whether anything should be monitored or guided as permanent teeth come in.
Should I choose braces or Invisalign?
It depends on the complexity of your case and how consistently you can wear removable aligners. Braces handle a wider range of bite problems, while aligners are more discreet. Our orthodontists will tell you which is likely to give the better result.
Do I need a referral to see your orthodontists?
No. You can book an orthodontic consultation directly, and existing patients can be seen by our orthodontists in the same office.
Does insurance cover orthodontic treatment?
Many PPO plans include orthodontic benefits, and Medi-Cal Dental covers orthodontics for eligible patients under 21. We review your coverage before treatment starts.
Start With a Conversation
A consultation gives you a clear picture of what treatment would involve, how long it would take, and what it would cost, with no obligation to begin. Call (424) 351-9665 or request an appointment to meet our orthodontic team.
Phone
Office Info
- Open Late & Saturdays
- Se habla español