Orthodontics for International School Families in Seoul
Quick answer
Families at Seoul's international schools can have their children assessed in English at Isu Yonsei Baro Orthodontics. Dr. Sally Lee evaluates bite and growth timing with a skeletal maturity analysis program, explains whether to treat now or wait, and schedules visits after school or on Saturdays. English records are prepared if the family relocates.
When should an international school child see an orthodontist?
Parents often notice crowding, a deep bite, protruding front teeth or a crossbite around the time adult teeth come in. A check during the mixed-dentition years helps identify whether growth can be guided now or whether it is better to wait until more permanent teeth have erupted.
An early check does not mean early braces. For many children the right answer is to monitor. For others, a short early phase may make later treatment simpler. That decision depends on examination and growth assessment.
The international school timeline
International school families often face a move every few years, sometimes mid-school-year. This affects orthodontic planning in two ways:
- Timing: comprehensive treatment typically takes roughly 12 to 30 months, so it helps to know whether the family expects to stay through that window.
- Continuity: if a move is likely, records should be thorough enough for the next orthodontist to understand exactly what was done and why.
What to expect at Isu Yonsei Baro
The first visit lasts about 60 minutes. Your child has digital intraoral scans, which avoid impression putty, plus X-rays or 3D CBCT imaging and photos. A skeletal maturity analysis program helps estimate where your child is in their growth, which can be important for bite problems involving the jaws.
Dr. Lee then explains findings to you and your child in English, outlines options and a likely timeline, and provides a written estimate. Dr. Lee treats each patient personally from consultation through retention. Dr. Hoseon Lee, a certified pediatric dentistry specialist, is also at the clinic.
In Dr. Lee's practice, children tend to cooperate better when the plan is explained to them directly, in simple terms, rather than only to their parents.
Common concerns for school-age children
| Concern | What is usually assessed |
|---|---|
| Crowded or crooked teeth | Space available and whether growth can help |
| Protruding front teeth | Overjet, lip coverage and jaw relationship |
| Underbite or crossbite | Jaw growth pattern and timing |
| Mouth breathing | Airway-related habits and bite effects |
| Canines not coming in | Position of unerupted teeth on 3D imaging |
Fitting visits around school
Monday and Thursday hours run from 1 to 9 PM, and Saturday hours from 9 AM to 2 PM, so many visits can be booked outside class time. The clinic is at Isu Station (Lines 4 and 7) Exit 2 with direct underground access, and parking is available.
If your family relocates
If you move before treatment is complete, the clinic prepares a complete English record set: scans, imaging, the treatment plan and progress notes. This allows an orthodontist in your next city to review the case and decide how to continue. English receipts and itemized statements are also available for insurance claims; check with your insurer about coverage.
Individual results and side effects vary; treatment is decided after examination.
At a glance
- Growth timing assessed with a skeletal maturity analysis program
- Pediatric dentistry specialist Dr. Hoseon Lee also at the clinic
- After-school appointments Mon and Thu until 9 PM; Saturdays 9 AM–2 PM
- Explanations in English for both parents and children
- Complete English records if your family moves abroad
Your orthodontist
Dr. Sally Chaekyung Lee, DDS, PhD
- MOHW-certified orthodontic specialist
- PhD in Orthodontics, Yonsei University; Severance Hospital residency
- Member, Edward H. Angle Society of Orthodontists
- 2026 AJO-DO peer reviewer
- Consults in fluent English and treats you herself, start to finish
Isu Station Exit 2 · 1-minute walk
Mon & Thu until 9 PM · Sat 9 AM–2 PM
+82 2-592-2080
Frequently asked questions
What age should my child first see an orthodontist?
Many orthodontic organizations suggest an initial check around age seven, when adult front teeth and first molars are coming in. That does not mean treatment starts then. Dr. Lee assesses growth and bite and explains whether to monitor, treat early, or wait.
Can appointments be scheduled outside school hours?
Often yes. The clinic is open Monday and Thursday from 1 to 9 PM, Tuesday and Friday from 10 AM to 7 PM, and Saturday from 9 AM to 2 PM. Late weekday and Saturday slots tend to suit school schedules, so it helps to book ahead.
What happens if we move in the middle of my child's treatment?
The clinic prepares complete English records, including scans, imaging, the treatment plan and progress notes, so an orthodontist in your new location can review the case. Share any expected move date at the first visit so the plan can account for it.
Will my child understand what is happening?
Dr. Lee explains the plan in English directly to children as well as parents, using simple language. Digital scans replace impression putty, which many children find more comfortable. Questions are welcome at every visit, and parents can stay involved throughout.
Related reading
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Individual results and side effects vary; treatment is decided after an in-person examination. See our editorial and medical review policy .
Talk to Dr. Lee in English
Send your concern and preferred dates. You'll get an examination, your options, a timeline and a written estimate before you decide anything.