Meet Our Doctors
Delivering amazing care for Edmonds, WA
Meet Dr. Kris Kim
"It’s truly a blessing for me to be in a profession where I can help people to smile more confidently. I especially enjoy seeing the excitement of patients when they are seeing their new smile after getting their braces off.
Often during orthodontic treatment, discipline plays a vital role in achieving successful results by being compliant with oral appliances and maintaining good oral hygiene. Being a mother of two boys has helped me to understand the importance coaching a child through this process, to encourage them, in a positive and caring environment.”
Dr. Kim grew up locally and attended Meadowdale High School, where she enjoyed being part of the swim team and the tennis team. She grew up helping her parents run their Dry Cleaner here in Edmonds. Dr. Kim earned both her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and her Doctor of Dental Surgery degrees from the University of Washington. She graduated among the top of her class in dental school and she continued her education to complete the orthodontic residency program at St. Louis University. She has been working in Edmonds as an orthodontist since 2009.
During her free time, she enjoys hiking, bicycling, and doing daily walks with her dog, Koda. She is a mother of two teenage boys.
- Dental School: University of Washington
- Orthodontic Residency: St. Louis University
- Invisalign Preferred Provider
Meet Dr. Paula Ohara
"Orthodontics is my passion. I absolutely love what I do and connecting with my patients and families. Being able to address their unique needs and concerns makes each day an exciting challenge that motivates me to learn more about the latest advances to help my patients and their entire journey in the best possible way. I feel truly fortunate to say that I get to make people smile for a living :)
Outside orthodontics, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, traveling, and getting to know different cultures and cuisines.
I speak Portuguese as well as Spanish and love practicing both languages when I get the opportunity.”
Dr. Paula Ohara was born and raised in Sao Paulo, Brazil, where she completed her dental school education at the University of Sao Paulo (USP), one of the top dental schools in the world. After graduating from dental school, Dr. Ohara pursued her dream of becoming an orthodontist. She moved to Boston where she obtained her Masters of Science and Certificate of Orthodontics at Boston University. After graduating, two of her mentors at Boston University referred her to a practice in beautiful Washington, where she chose as home.
- Dental School: University of Sao Paolo
- Orthodontic Residency: Boston University
- Invisalign Preferred Provider
What can you expect?
Honest Communication
We want to build your smile into one you'll love for a lifetime. This starts with our orthodontists setting realistic expectations for you and your family.
Modern Treatment
To have a beautiful smile for a lifetime, you must use the right techniques. We only use the latest technologies and techniques proven to work.
Excellent Experience
You are much more than a patient - you are part of our orthodontic family. That's why our team will do everything we can to provide a positive experience.
Do you have any questions?
Absolutely! We maintain communication with your dentist throughout your orthodontic treatment and ensure that he or she is informed about your treatment at all times. It is extremely important that you continue to visit your family dentist regularly for routine dental care.
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends an orthodontist should evaluate children at the age of seven. This visit will provide information regarding your child's skeletal growth pattern, dental development, as well as to advise parents on ideal treatment timing. Usually by age seven, the first permanent molars and incisors have erupted sufficiently to allow the orthodontist to evaluate for crossbites, crowding, and skeletal problems. When treatment is begun early, the orthodontist can guide the growth of the jaw and guide incoming permanent teeth.
Absolutely! Orthodontic treatment benefits any age group and is great for adults who want a beautiful, straight smile. Adults may be more concerned about the appearance of braces. Please ask us about alternative treatment options to conventional metal braces, such as Invisalign®.