About our clinic Message from the director
Japan Orthodontic Center was established in 1969 based on the founding director’s vision of “bringing orthodontic treatment to wider society in Japan.” For over 50 years. We have continued to provide specialized orthodontic care as a dedicated clinical institution.Our clinic is conveniently located just a three-minute walk from the East Exit of Shibuya Station, we offer an accessible environment for patients of all ages, from children to adults.
At our clinic, orthodontic treatment is not limited to aligning teeth alone. We place great importance on achieving harmony between the dentition and the overall facial balance, including the lips, nose, and jaws. We prioritize improving oral functions such as chewing, speaking, and breathing. We strive to create natural and healthy facial aesthetics by addressing both function and appearance.
Furthermore, we maintain a multidisciplinary collaborative system centered on orthodontists, working closely with specialists in plastic surgery, otolaryngology, oral and maxillofacial surgery, as well as speech-language pathologists and physical therapists. We also collaborate with university hospitals and pediatric medical centers as needed. In particular, the treatment of craniofacial conditions, including congenital anomalies such as cleft lip and palate, requires long-term, team-based care involving multiple specialties, and we provide treatment through close coordination among experts in each field.
Based on the extensive clinical experience and academic knowledge we have cultivated over the years, we propose individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s condition and needs, and strive to provide a medical environment where patients can receive care with confidence and peace of mind.If you have any concerns regarding your teeth alignment or oral appearance, please feel free to contact us.Yuki Yamamoto, D.D.S., Ph.D. Director, Japan Orthodontic Center
Our Key Features
Orthodontic Treatment Focused on Total Facial Balance and Harmony
Our approach to orthodontics extends beyond simply aligning teeth; we prioritize the overall harmony of the face, ensuring a natural balance between the teeth, lips, nose, and jaw.
In addition to optimizing occlusal (bite) function, we pay close attention to the aesthetic impression of the mouth and the natural fluidity of facial expressions. Our goal is to achieve the perfect synergy between form and function—enhancing both appearance and health for a confident, natural smile.
Craniofacial Orthodontics
In addition to general orthodontic care, our clinic specializes in Craniofacial Orthodontics, addressing complex cases such as congenital conditions—including cleft lip and palate—as well as jaw deformities (orthognathic cases).
For these conditions, a multidisciplinary approach is required. We work within a comprehensive medical-dental collaborative network, coordinating closely with specialists in plastic surgery and oral surgery. By integrating expertise across multiple fields, we provide consistent, high-quality care through a long-term clinical perspective, supporting our patients’ growth and recovery at every stage.
Thorough Diagnosis and Precise Treatment Planning
We believe that the initial diagnosis and the formulation of a strategic treatment plan are the most critical steps in orthodontic care.
During the initial consultation, we conduct comprehensive examinations and detailed analyses. Based on these findings, we propose a personalized treatment plan that takes into account not only clinical needs but also the patient’s goals and lifestyle.
Our orthodontic specialists provide dedicated, individual attention to every patient, striving to enhance both the precision and safety of each treatment journey.
Comprehensive Team Medicine through Multidisciplinary and Inter-institutional Collaboration
At our clinic, we have established a robust collaborative system that brings together a diverse range of specialists. Led by our orthodontists, our team works in close coordination with plastic surgeons, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, speech-language pathologists (SLP), and physical therapists (PT).
Beyond our internal team, we maintain strong partnerships with university hospitals and pediatric medical centers. This allows us to provide holistic care that addresses not only dental alignment but also critical oral functions such as speech (articulation), breathing, swallowing, and the function of facial muscles.
Particularly for complex cases involving congenital conditions or orthognathic (surgical) orthodontics, we are committed to providing long-term support. Our ultimate goal is to enhance each patient’s Quality of Life (QOL) through a truly comprehensive and integrated medical approach.
In-House Laboratory for Integrated Orthodontic Appliance Fabrication
Our clinic features an on-site dental laboratory with dedicated dental technicians. This allows us to handle the design, adjustment, and repair of orthodontic appliances promptly and efficiently.
We do not rely solely on mass-produced, external package products. Instead, our orthodontic specialists personally oversee the custom design of each appliance, including clear aligner systems, to meet the specific clinical needs of every patient. This integrated approach ensures a high level of precision and allows for immediate response to any necessary modifications.
Note on Treatment: Some appliances, such as clear aligners, are classified as elective (non-insured) treatments. Detailed information regarding costs, treatment duration, and potential side effects or risks will be thoroughly explained during your initial consultation.
Over 50 Years of Excellence as a Specialized Orthodontic Institution
Since our establishment in 1969, we have dedicated over 50 years to providing specialized orthodontic care. As a pioneering institution in the field, we have built a long-standing reputation for clinical excellence and patient trust.
Conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from the East Exit of Shibuya Station, our clinic offers an accessible environment for regular visits. To ensure the highest standard of personalized care, we operate on a full appointment-only basis, allowing our specialists to provide dedicated, focused attention to every patient.
We also welcome initial consultations and second opinions, striving to create a welcoming environment where patients can discuss their concerns with complete peace of mind.
Medical Collaboration and International Support
Examination and Diagnosis with Digital Technology
We utilize CT and 3D digital technology to create three-dimensional images, enabling us to simulate and plan treatment strategies for areas that cannot be fully observed with traditional X-rays.
For example, in the case of surgical orthodontics, which involves cutting bone to treat congenital jaw deformities, we can determine specific approaches such as "first cutting the upper section, then adjusting the base and repositioning."
Comprehensive Treatment
In treatments aimed at improving dental function, we take a comprehensive approach that not only addresses chewing and swallowing but also ensures proper airway management to support healthy breathing. To achieve this, our dental hygienists provide tongue training as part of the treatment process.
Regarding breathing, we collaborate with otolaryngologists to provide holistic care, considering conditions such as sleep apnea. This collaboration allows us to make informed decisions about procedures like tooth extractions while prioritizing the patient’s overall health.
Surgical Orthodontics (Surgery-First Approach)
Surgical orthodontics is a treatment method that addresses skeletal issues before correcting dental alignment through orthodontic care. For instance, conditions such as jaw deformities, where the jaw protrudes significantly, cannot be resolved with orthodontics alone. In such cases, corrective surgery is performed on the skeletal structure before proceeding with dental alignment.
* We also perform preoperative procedures for neonatal cleft lip and palate. This treatment method was adopted from the United States by our doctors, and we are the only clinic in Japan offering this procedure.
* Some conditions treated with surgical orthodontics may be covered by insurance, so please feel free to consult with us.
Accommodating Requests for Female Doctors
Our clinic has female doctors on staff at all times. If you prefer a female doctor, whether for children’s orthodontic treatment or for female patients, please feel free to let us know at the reception desk.
About the Director – Dr. Yuki Sato Yamamoto
Yuki Sato Yamamoto, DDS, Ph.D., MBA Director, Japan Orthodontic Center
After graduating from the School of Dentistry at Showa University, she conducted basic research on tooth movement at the Department of Orthodontics in the same university’s graduate school and obtained her PhD. During her postgraduate training, she pursued further clinical experience in the United States and Canada, completing craniofacial orthodontic fellowships at New York University Medical Center and The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto. These programs were based on the educational standards of the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) in the United States and Canada, where she received specialized training in craniofacial orthodontics within multidisciplinary teams involving plastic surgery and oral and maxillofacial surgery. Based on this background, she continues to practice as a Craniofacial Orthodontist.
After she returned to Japan, she joined the Department of Orthodontics at Showa University, where she was involved in clinical care, research, and education in both general orthodontics and the treatment of patients with dentofacial deformities and congenital anomalies. She also played a role in introducing presurgical orthopedic treatment using Nasoalveolar Molding (NAM) for infants with cleft lip and palate in Japan and contributed to establishing multidisciplinary treatment systems integrating medical and dental care. Currently, while serving as a part-time clinician and instructor at university hospitals and pediatric medical centers, she provides comprehensive orthodontic care ranging from general orthodontics to craniofacial cases.
In pursuit of an ideal healthcare system, she also earned an MBA from the Keio University Graduate School of Business Administration (Keio Business School). In addition to clinical practice, she incorporates perspectives from healthcare management and organizational leadership to develop high-quality clinical environments. In recent years, she has been involved in research and development of infant orthodontic appliances utilizing digital technologies, as well as industry–academia–clinical collaborative projects, including skincare products aimed at supporting postoperative recovery and social reintegration.
As part of her lifelong commitment, she is actively engaged in international humanitarian activities as a designated surgeon and board member of global NPOs, providing cleft care in developing countries. Through clinical service and educational support in local settings, she contributes to sustainable healthcare delivery tailored to diverse cultural and medical environments.
Board Certification and Professional Credentials
・Board-Certified Orthodontist and Instructor, Japanese Orthodontic Society
・Board-Certified Specialist, Japanese Society of Anti-Aging Medicine
・Certified Specialist, Japanese Cleft Palate Association
・Certified Craniofacial Orthodontist, International Society of Craniofacial Surgery (ISCFS)
・CODA-based Certified Craniofacial Orthodontist (U.S. & Canada training)
・Designated Physician for Independence Support Medical Care (MHLW, Japan)
・Certified Instructor for Dental Clinical Training
Academic and Professional Appointments
・Board Member, Japan Orthodontic Center
・Lecturer, Departments of Plastic Surgery (School of Medicine) and Orthodontics (School of Dentistry), Showa Medical University
・Visiting Professor, Saveetha University (India)
・Part-time clinician at multiple university hospitals and pediatric medical centers
Committee and Society Activities
・Board Member, Japanese Society of Adult Orthodontics
・Board Member, Japan Society of Health Care and Medicine
・Delegate, Japanese Cleft Palate Association (Guideline Committee WG Member)
・WG Member, Specialist Committee, Japanese Society of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery
・Vice President / Designated Surgeon, Smile Japan & Smile Asia (International NPO)
・Designated Surgeon, Operation Smile
・Chair, Summer Cleft Orthodontics Study Group for Young Clinicians
Awards and Honors
・Joseph E. Johnson Clinical Award (American Association of Orthodontists)
・Best Poster Award (International Society of Craniofacial Surgery)
・Outstanding Research Awards (Japanese Association of Anatomists, Japanese Cleft Palate Association, etc.)
Personal Interest
・Spending time with her cats (a daily source of relaxation)
Access & Clinic Hours
| TIME | Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | Holiday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:20–13:20 | ★ | ■ | ★ | ✕ | ● | ● | Closed | Closed |
| 14:30–18:30 | ▲ | ● | ▲ | ✕ | ● | ● | Closed | Closed |
★・▲Starts at 11:10 AM on Monday & Wednesday.
Monday: 11:10 AM–1:50 PM, 3:30 PM–7:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:10 AM–2:30 PM, 3:30 PM–7:30 PM
■Tuesday morning: 10:20 AM–12:10 PM
| Clinic Name | Japan Orthodontic Center |
|---|---|
| Specialty | Orthodontic Treatment |
| TEL | 03-3499-2222 |
| Location | 21st Floor, Shibuya Cross Tower (formerly Toho Seimei Building), 2-15-1 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0002 |
| Nearest Station | JR Lines, Keio Line, Tokyu Line, and Tokyo Metro Lines 3-minute walk from the East Exit of “Shibuya Station” |
| Parking | Please use the parking facilities at Shibuya Cross Tower. (Charges apply) |