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AWARD-WINNING ORTHODONTIST
Dr. Katherine Kieu,
Board-Certified Orthodontist
Dr. Kieu brings a gentle, detail-oriented approach to orthodontic care — helping kids, teens, and adults feel confident every step of the way. Whether you're exploring braces or Invisalign, you're in skilled hands.
🧡 Compassionate. Precise. Patient-first.
MONDAY-FRIDAY
8:30am - 5:30pm
Closed for Lunch 12:45 - 2:00pm.
Check out our working hours and choose a time that fits your family’s schedule!
PARKING
Parking Spot
Hassle-free parking right at our doorstep, so you can focus on your little one’s smile!
ORTHODONTIC SERVICES AT CHOMPERS
Traditional Braces
Traditional braces remain one of the most effective solutions for correcting even the most complex orthodontic issues. Whether it’s overcrowding, bite alignment, or significant tooth movement, braces provide powerful, precise results.
Metal Braces: Strong and durable, modern metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than ever. Kids love the fun of choosing colored bands at each visit, making the experience more personal and exciting.
Ceramic Braces: These are similar in design to metal braces but are made from clear or tooth-colored materials for a more subtle appearance—ideal for image-conscious teens.
Thanks to advanced wire technology, today's braces reduce friction, improve movement, and often shorten overall treatment time.
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CLEAR ALIGNERS - INVISALIGN
Invisalign as a Preferred Treatment Method
Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners that gently move teeth into alignment over time. These aligners are removable, making it easier to eat, brush, and floss—perfect for teens and young adults with active lifestyles or dietary preferences.
Discreet Appearance: Virtually invisible when worn.
Removable: Aligners can be taken out for meals, sports, or photos.
SmartTrack Technology: Custom-fit aligners made with precision for faster, more predictable results.
While Invisalign works best for mild to moderate cases, it's a highly popular choice for older kids and teens seeking a flexible, aesthetic alternative.
BRACES OR INVISALIGN?
Compare Your Options
BEFORE & AFTER
See Our Patient Transformations
Invisalign as a Preferred Treatment
There’s never been a better time to straighten your teeth with the most advanced clear aligner in the world. Our office is proud to be a certified provider of Invisalign clear aligners, which give you a clear, convenient, and comfortable option to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
Why Invisalign Treatment?
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Faster treatment: With weekly aligner changes, you’re on your way to the smile you want even faster. Depending on your response to treatment, particularly in mature adults, we may consider longer periods between aligner changes.
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Proven results: SmartTrack® material and SmartForce® features are clinically proven to improve control of tooth movement with Invisalign clear aligners.
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Better fit: Aligners made from SmartTrack material are comfortable, fit well, and are easy to put on and take off.
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Effective: Invisalign clear aligners can treat a wide range of teeth-straightening conditions, including crossbites, crowding, open bites, gapped teeth, overbites, and underbites.
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Virtually invisible: Most people won’t even know you’re going through treatment, because Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible!
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Comfortable: Invisalign clear aligner trays are not only smooth and comfortable to wear, but they’re also removable. That means you can continue doing all the things you normally would, from brushing and flossing to eating whatever you like.
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Convenient: Invisalign treatment is ideal for your busy schedule, since you only need to visit our office every six weeks.
The Invisalign Treatment Proccess
YOUR FIRST CONSULTATION
At your initial consultation, we will discuss your orthodontic needs and evaluate whether Invisalign treatment is right for you.
YOUR CUSTOM TREATMENT PLAN
We will use a scanner such as the iTero® digital scanning system to create fast, precise 3D digital images of your teeth. Then we will map out a precise treatment plan, including the exact movements of your teeth and how long your treatment will be. You’ll even get to see how your teeth will move and preview your new smile.
YOUR INVISALIGN® CLEAR ALIGNERS
Your custom-made aligners will be made of Invisalign’s proprietary SmartTrack® material. They’re virtually invisible, so most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them during your teeth straightening.
Wear your Invisalign clear aligners 20 to 22 hours a day for the best results, and take them out only to eat, brush, and floss.
YOUR PROGRESS
As you wear each set of aligners, your teeth will gently and gradually shift into place. We may recommend that you begin wearing a new set of aligners every week and schedule checkups every six weeks or so.
TAKING CARE OF YOUR NEW SMILE
When your treatment is complete, ask us about a Vivera® retainer. Vivera retainers are custom-made using the same state-of-the-art technology as Invisalign clear aligners.
To learn more about the Invisalign system and all your orthodontic treatment options, please feel free to schedule an appointment at our office. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve a smile that’s made to move!
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When should my child have their first dental visit?The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first dental visit by age 1 or within six months of the first tooth coming in. At Chompers, we welcome babies, toddlers, and kids of all ages for their first visit—even if they’re well beyond their first birthday. It’s never too early or too late to get started.
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Are baby teeth really that important?Absolutely! Baby teeth help children chew, speak clearly, and maintain space for their permanent teeth. They also play a key role in guiding healthy jaw development. Even though they eventually fall out, taking care of baby teeth now can prevent big problems down the road. Many parents are surprised to learn that the last baby teeth don’t fall out until middle school—and sometimes not until high school!
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My child is nervous about the dentist. Can you help?Yes—we specialize in working with anxious, sensitive, or fearful children. Our team uses a calm, kid-friendly approach that focuses on building trust over time. Many families choose us specifically for our ability to turn nervous patients into confident, smiling pros.
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Do you offer fluoride-free options?We do! While we believe fluoride is a safe and effective tool for preventing cavities, we respect every family’s preferences. If you prefer fluoride-free care, we’ll work with you to create a prevention plan that aligns with your values while still protecting your child’s oral health. Learn more about our fluoride-free approach
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When should I start brushing my child’s teeth?As soon as the first tooth appears! For infants, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and water (or a rice-sized smear of toothpaste if using fluoride). We’ll guide you on brushing techniques, product recommendations, and how to make it part of your child’s daily routine.
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Do you take X-rays? Are they safe for kids?Yes, we take digital X-rays only when necessary—and they’re very safe. Our pediatric specialists follow strict guidelines and use low-dose radiation technology. X-rays help us detect issues that aren’t visible to the naked eye, such as cavities between teeth or problems below the surface.
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What are dental sealants, and should my child get them?Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars). They help prevent cavities in areas where toothbrushes can’t easily reach. We recommend sealants for permanent molars, and the first ones usually erupt around age 6. The process is quick, painless, and very effective—especially for kids still learning to brush thoroughly.
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Do you use sedation for dental work?We offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help kids relax during dental procedures. For more complex or difficult scenarios, we partner with a Medical Anesthesiologist to safely provide general anesthesia in-office. Your child’s comfort and safety are always our top priority.
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What if my child has special healthcare needs?Our pediatric dental team has extensive experience caring for children with a wide range of developmental, medical, and behavioral conditions. We take the time to understand your child’s unique needs and customize their care accordingly. If you have questions before booking, feel free to call us so we can prepare for a successful visit.
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Do families travel to Chompers from outside South San Francisco?Yes! While we’re proudly located in South San Francisco, many families come from all over the Bay Area—and even out of state—for our specialized, child-centered approach. Whether you're local or visiting from afar, you'll feel right at home here.
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