Patti Panucci, DMD, MS

Highlights

• Invisalign Treatment 
• Early Interceptive Treatment
• Airway-focused Orthodontics
• Teeth Whitening

Patti Panucci, DMD, has been practicing orthodontics since graduating from her residency program at the University of Southern California in 2003. She opened Beach Braces in Manhattan Beach in 2005 and is celebrating her 20th year in business. Beach Braces specializes in creating healthy, beautiful smiles for patients of all ages through Invisalign clear aligners, traditional and ceramic braces, early intervention for kids, airway-focused orthodontics and teeth whitening. 

How did you choose your career?

I knew from a very young age that I was destined to be an orthodontist. My parents still laugh about how I would brush my teeth several times a day as a child. I’ve never had a cavity, but I have completed orthodontics four times. That early passion carried me through my studies at USC and ultimately to opening my own practice here in the South Bay.

What is the motto of Beach Braces?

Our motto is “We create smiles in more ways than one!”—and we really mean it. My team and I work hard to make every visit fun, engaging and rewarding for our patients.

Tell us about your team.

Our mission is to serve our patients with quality orthodontic care in a fun and friendly environment where patients feel at home. We employ the latest technologies to educate our patients and tailor our treatment to each patient’s needs. My team is dedicated to providing an impeccable patient experience that begins with the first phone call and lasts a lifetime. We have fun with every one of our patients and always have a reason to celebrate, which sustains an entertaining environment. Our prize wheel and candy station keep the office lively. The Beach Braces Bubbles vending machine is a main attraction for patients of all ages, as well as parents.

How do you define your leadership style?

I’d call my leadership style collaborative and joyful. Early on, I felt the pressure to “do it all” myself. Over time, I’ve learned the power of building a strong team, trusting their strengths, and fostering a culture of fun and celebration in the office.

Describe one of your specialties.

My training in airway-focused orthodontics has allowed me to customize treatment that aims to improve breathing by addressing dental and skeletal issues to provide a broader airway. This approach can positively impact a person’s sleep, overall health and quality of life. My 3D i-Cat machine produces digital images to assess patients’ teeth, jaw structure and quality of the airway.  

Tell us about an important business decision.

Investing early in advanced 3D imaging and digital visualization technology was a leap at the time. It was expensive, and not every orthodontist was doing it. But it continues to transform our patients’ experiences and outcomes in ways that set Beach Braces apart.

How does it feel to treat more than one generation of the same family?

It is incredibly fulfilling to treat the children of previous patients. This is the highest compliment I receive. It warms my heart to have their trust and be able to create smiles for generations. 

What motivates you to keep going when you face professional challenges?

Like many small business owners, I’ve faced challenges—especially during economic downturns and the pandemic. But every time I considered slowing down, I thought about my patients. Seeing the transformation in their smiles and confidence has always been my biggest motivation to keep going.

Tell us about something you’re currently learning that’s helping you in your career.

I’ve been diving into meditation and mindfulness practices. It may not sound orthodontics-related, but it’s helped me show up more present and centered—for my patients, my team and my family.

How do you support the south bay?

I believe that orthodontic treatment should be within reach for everyone. For the past 15 years, I’ve partnered with Smiles Change Lives, providing pro bono treatment to children who otherwise wouldn’t have access to receive the smiles they deserve. And since 2009, I’ve been a proud member of the Manhattan Beach Rotary Club, where we dedicate our time and expertise to humanitarian issues—locally and internationally—while promoting high ethical standards and advocating for peace and goodwill. 

Photographed by Fabien & Laura Castro