EXHIBIT 23

                         CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8 No. 333-86053) pertaining to the Orthodontic Centers of America, Inc. 401(k)
Profit Sharing Plan of our report dated June 24, 2002, with respect to the
financial statements of the Orthodontic Centers of America, Inc. 401(k) Profit
Sharing Plan included in this Annual Report (Form 11-K) for the year ended
December 31, 2001.

                                            /s/ Ernst & Young LLP

New Orleans, Louisiana
June 24, 2002