Meet our Orthodontist, Dr. Won Chaekal DDS
My patients are like a second family to me. Each is unique and brings their own personality to the office. I enjoy getting to know patients personally while helping them achieve a beautifully healthy smile — one they’ll love for a lifetime!
Our smiles are how we greet the world. When a person has crooked teeth, they can feel self-conscious and uncomfortable at school and work. Patients often start orthodontics with low self-esteem and a reluctance to engage with their peers. As they see their teeth start to move into proper position, these people start to feel better about themselves: They begin to make eye contact and walk taller. Best of all, they start to talk happily and laugh with others, and they begin to share their smiles. By the time they finish, each is a new person: smiling with confident ease!
I am passionate about the lasting difference orthodontic care makes. While many think about braces as being all about smiles, the reality is that properly positioned teeth improve oral health and make it easier to keep your teeth and gums healthy and clean. Orthodontics also means better function and less strain on the jaw, which lessens the likelihood of TMJ-TMD in the future.
My profession allows me to improve lives by helping people I care about achieve beautiful smiles. I can’t imagine anything more rewarding!
Education and Continuing Education
- Bachelor of Science in biochemistry – University of California, Berkeley
- Doctorate of Dental Surgery – Columbia University
- Certificate in orthodontics – Columbia University
Each year I complete many hours of continuing education here in Hawaii and abroad. Orthodontics is constantly evolving and I want to use the best technologies and techniques available. These make the orthodontic experience as effective and comfortable as possible for my patients.
I’ve been an Elite Preferred Provider for Invisalign® treatment (reserved for the top 1% of providers nationwide) since 2008 and am a Pacific Northwest Regional Leader. I am one of only a handful of women in the world to have earned this title. I have successfully treated more than 1,000 patients with Invisalign and can accomplish outstanding results!
Professional Memberships
- Hawaii Academy of Orthodontics
- Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists
- American Academy of Orthodontics
- American Dental Association
- Hawaii Dental Association
- California Dental Association
Beyond the Office
After growing up in Korea, I now call Honolulu my home. My husband is Dr. Michon Morita and I’m Mom
to two beautiful children. Being with my family is important to me, and I also enjoy playing the piano.