Trusted by the Capitola Community Since 2006

Locally Owned, Award-Winning Orthodontics in Capitola

North Coast Orthodontics has proudly served Capitola and the greater Santa Cruz County community for 20 years. Led by husband-and-wife team Dr. Brian Schabel and Dr. Vivian Chan, our locally owned practice is committed to creating a welcoming experience where patients of all ages feel respected, understood, and cared for like family.

We believe every smile is unique and deserves thoughtful treatment tailored to each patient’s goals, lifestyle, and long-term health. Guided by our mission to create the most beautiful smiles in the world, all crafted by hand and heart, we strive to make orthodontic treatment efficient, comfortable, and accessible for busy families, teens, and adults.

We’re also passionate about supporting the community we call home. North Coast Orthodontics has been recognized multiple times as a “Best of Santa Cruz” practice and is proud to stay actively involved in local outreach initiatives and charitable programs throughout the region. From our coastal-inspired atmosphere to our commitment to honest, patient-first care, everything we do reflects the values and spirit of the Santa Cruz community.

A Centrally Located Orthodontist Office Designed Around Community

North Coast Orthodontics’ Capitola office is conveniently located on 41st Avenue in the heart of Santa Cruz County, making it easy for patients from Capitola, Santa Cruz, Aptos, Soquel, Pleasure Point, and Rio Del Mar to access expert orthodontic care close to home. Our office sits next to Whole Foods and directly across from Capitola Mall in one of the area’s most recognized retail corridors, just minutes from some of the area’s most iconic surf spots.

Many of our patients appreciate being able to schedule appointments around school, work, shopping, and everyday errands while enjoying a welcoming office atmosphere. We also have free on-site parking to make every visit as convenient and stress-free as possible.

Monday: 8:00am – 5:00pm
Tuesday: 7:00am – 4:00pm
Wednesday: 7:30am – 4:30pm
Thursday: 7:00am – 4:00pm
Friday: 8:00am – 12:30pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Custom Orthodontic Services for Capitola Families

Since every patient has different needs and goals, we provide customized orthodontic treatment options designed to fit your smile, lifestyle, and priorities.

Modern Braces Treatment

We provide a variety of modern braces treatments to fit different smile goals and preferences, including metal braces, clear braces, LightForce™ custom braces, and self-ligating systems. For many patients, we also offer same-day starts so you can begin treatment right away.

Invisalign Clear Aligners

We provide Invisalign® clear aligners for children, teens, and adults. These custom aligners offer a more discreet and convenient alternative to braces for many patients. To make getting started even easier, we offer same-day digital scans during your complimentary consultation whenever possible.

Early Orthodontics for Kids

Early orthodontic care supports healthy jaw development and improves alignment as kids’ smiles grow, helping to address issues before they become more complex later on. We focus on creating a positive, comfortable experience for kids while building a strong foundation for lasting smile health and function.

Custom Retainers

To protect your smile after treatment, we offer custom Hawley, Essix, and Vivera® retainers. Our team also makes follow-up retainer care convenient with our Retainers for Life Program and repair support. Even if you completed orthodontic treatment somewhere else, we can assist with replacement retainers, repairs, and ongoing smile maintenance.

Advanced Orthodontic Care Beyond Braces & Invisalign

In addition to orthodontic treatment, our Capitola office offers supportive services focused on helping patients maintain healthy, comfortable smiles throughout every stage of care. Whether you need help with TMJ/TMD concerns or other specialized treatment needs, our team provides individualized care tailored to your goals and lifestyle.

Airway Orthodontics

We provide airway-focused orthodontic treatment that encourages healthy jaw growth and improved breathing function. Through a growth-focused, non-extraction approach, our team works to identify and treat developing issues early, particularly in children and teens. Our focus is on creating healthy, functional smiles that promote lasting comfort, balance, and overall wellness.

TMJ/TMD Treatment

Our TMJ/TMD treatment approach is centered on improving jaw function and easing tension using conservative, non-surgical techniques. We develop customized care plans that may involve oral appliances and other supportive therapies to help minimize discomfort, reduce strain, and promote better day-to-day comfort.

Teeth Whitening

You can refresh and brighten your smile with our professional teeth whitening treatments. Whether you’re completing orthodontic care or simply want to enhance your appearance, our whitening options are designed to safely lift stains and improve the overall look of your smile for a cleaner, more confident finish.

Surgical Orthodontics

For patients with more advanced orthodontic needs, we offer surgical orthodontic care through close collaboration with experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons. By combining orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery, we’re able to improve bite alignment, facial harmony, and overall function with a treatment plan customized to your unique goals and needs.

What Makes North Coast Orthodontics Different?

From innovative treatment technology and specialized expertise to our long-standing connection to the Santa Cruz community, there are many reasons families throughout Capitola and the Santa Cruz area appreciate Dr. Schabel, Dr. Chan, and the North Coast Orthodontics team:

Locally owned husband-and-wife orthodontic team
20 years of practicing in the community
Recognized multiple times as “Best of Santa Cruz”
Strong commitment to local outreach and community involvement
xOnly Top 1% Invisalign provider in the Monterey Bay
Advanced training, published research, and years of clinical expertise
Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s goals
Artistic, detail-focused approach to smile design and facial aesthetics
Modern technology designed for greater comfort and efficiency
Flexible financing options and convenient payment plans
Same-day starts available for braces and Invisalign treatment
Efficient appointments designed to respect your time
Friendly, welcoming environment for kids, teens, and adults
Family-focused care rooted in honesty, compassion, and professionalism

Hear from Our Capitola Orthodontic Patients

Meet the Dream Team at North Coast Orthodontics in Capitola

Behind North Coast Orthodontics is a team committed to making every visit efficient, comfortable, and uplifting while treating each patient like family from the very first appointment.

Dr. Schabel is known for his artistic approach to smile aesthetics and advanced orthodontic care, bringing years of experience, published research, and memberships in leading dental and orthodontic organizations. He’s even a Santa Cruz local, having lived in this area since 1989, allowing him to bring his deep local roots to every patient interaction.

Dr. Chan is admired for her thoughtful, compassionate care and dedication to evidence-based treatment, as well as her passion for empowering women within the community. She has even presented nationally recognized research on temporomandibular joint disease in women at the American Association of Orthodontists International Conference.

Supporting Dr. Schabel and Dr. Chan is an incredible group of people who uphold the values of our practice by taking the time to get to know each patient, answer questions honestly, and provide compassionate support throughout every stage of your treatment journey.

Dr. Brian Schabel

Dr. Vivian Chan

Experience Exceptional Orthodontic Care in Capitola Today

At North Coast Orthodontics, we’re proud to provide world-class orthodontic care that reflects the values of the Santa Cruz community: honest guidance, advanced expertise, and genuine relationships built on trust. Whether you’re exploring braces, Invisalign, early orthodontic treatment, or simply looking for a trusted second opinion, our team is here to help.

Contact our Capitola office today to schedule your complimentary consultation and discover why families throughout Santa Cruz County have trusted North Coast Orthodontics for 20 years.