Meet Dr. Yu

Dr. Tim Yu, DDS MSD is a board-certified orthodontist with specialized training in airway health and a focus on growth and development of the craniofacial complex, orthodontic TMD treatment, and facial esthetics. Dr. Yu takes a comprehensive approach to treatment, collaborating with an interdisciplinary team of sleep physicians, dentists, myofunctional therapists, and other healthcare professionals to deliver quality care to patients.
Dr. Yu earned his DDS degree from the prestigious UCLA School of Dentistry and went on to complete his orthodontic speciality training at the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry. Here, he obtained a Masters of Science in Dentistry for his groundbreaking research on the effects of maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) surgery for sleep apnea. Dr. Yu’s research has earned numerous accolades, including awards from the American Association of Dental research and he has presented at the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontics and American Association of Orthodontics.
As an active member of various dental and allied health professional associations, Dr. Yu is committed to raising awareness of airway health within the community. As the new lead at Face Focused Orthodontics, he is devoted to upholding the practice’s strong legacy of providing exceptional dental care and spearheading innovative orthodontic techniques to treat craniofacial growth abnormalities and ensure the overall well-being of his patients.

Education & Professional Affiliations

  • Doctor of Dental Surgery
    • UCLA School of Dentistry
  • Orthodontic Certificate, Masters in Science of Dentistry
    • UOP Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry
  • Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics
  • Diplomate, American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine
  • American Dental Association
  • California Dental Association
  • American Association of Orthodontists
  • Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists
  • American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine
  • American Academy of Physiological Medicine and Dentistry

What Does It Mean to Be a Board Certified Orthodontist?

While all orthodontists must be licensed, only about 1 in 3 have taken the extra step to become Board Certified.

To become Board Certified, this process requires the orthodontist to showcase real patient care achievements by submitting detailed case reports that cover a wide variety of treatment challenges. Board certification is a voluntary accomplishment that not all orthodontists choose to pursue. To earn certification from the American Board of Orthodontics, an orthodontist must undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a distinguished panel of examiners, demonstrating their expertise, clinical skills, and professional judgment.

Successful completion of these steps results in Board Certification, which must be renewed every 10 years to ensure continued adherence to the highest standards of care.

Why Is Board Certification Important for Your Orthodontic Care?

Board Certification is a mark of excellence, signifying that an orthodontist has not only met but exceeded the standard requirements for practice. It reflects a dedication to continuous learning and improvement, ensuring that patients receive care that is informed by the latest research and best practices in the field. At Face Focused Orthodontics, Dr. Tim Yu’s Board Certification is part of our commitment to delivering the best possible outcomes for our patients.

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Healthy Breathing Initiative

Co-Founder
Dr. Yu’s passion for advancing airway health extends beyond his practice. Together with two esteemed colleagues, he co-founded the Healthy Breathing Initiative, an innovative and collaborative study club. This dynamic community is dedicated to the study and improvement of airway health, breathing, speech, and related topics. It provides a platform where like-minded professionals in the dental and medical fields can connect, share knowledge, and explore the latest research.

The Healthy Breathing Initiative is dedicated to fostering a culture of teamwork and lifelong learning. Through a variety of engaging activities such as seminars, workshops, and an exclusive member portal, the initiative encourages continuous professional development and the exchange of innovative ideas. By bringing together diverse perspectives and treatment philosophies, the Healthy Breathing Initiative aims to improve patient care and outcomes while building a robust network of professionals committed to advancing the field of airway health.

Outside of the Office

Beyond his professional pursuits, Dr. Yu is also has a passion in landscape photography, he finds joy in capturing the tranquility of the natural world with his camera. His enjoyment of golf goes beyond a mere hobby, reflecting a dedication to precision and leisurely relaxation. A lover of culinary delights, Dr. Yu’s foodie nature leads him to explore various cuisines and flavors. Traveling is more than a passion for Dr. Yu; it’s a means of exploring diverse cultures and landscapes, fostering a sense of personal growth and adventure.