Dr. Jai Cho, D.D.S.
A complete, health-focused approach to dentistry
Dr. Jai Cho practices complete, health-focused dentistry and uses an interdisciplinary mindset when cases call for it. He approaches oral care the way a thoughtful physician approaches medicine: by looking at the whole system, not just individual teeth. He focuses on long-term health and helps patients make informed decisions so that treatment is not only comfortable and esthetic but also appropriate for their individual risk levels.
Education and experience
Dr. Cho earned his bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from Pacific Union College in the Napa Valley region and his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from New York University College of Dentistry. Before relocating with his family to Newport Beach, he owned and led a modern, technology-driven practice in Chicago. His clinical experience ranges from routine preventive care to complex restorative and implant dentistry, including the management of significant tooth wear, bite problems, and full-mouth reconstructive cases.
Advanced training and philosophy
Commitment to education is central to Dr. Cho’s practice. As a Kois Center Graduate with Honors, he uses an evidence-based, risk-assessment protocol that evaluates five key areas: breathing and airway, gum and bone health, tooth strength and biomechanics, bite function and jaw joints, and how the teeth and smile fit the face. He also keeps the oral–systemic connection in mind, explaining how problems in the mouth can influence overall health over time. By understanding the risk level in each area, he designs personalized, risk-based plans to help lower risk and improve long-term stability whenever possible.
Empowering patients with real choices
In the exam room, Dr. Cho believes in transparency and real options. For most problems there is a spectrum of care: doing the least to relieve symptoms, addressing the underlying causes to change the long-term prognosis, or monitoring with a clear plan and an honest discussion of the risk of delaying treatment. He takes time to explain how teeth age from small fillings to larger restorations, crowns, root canals, and sometimes extractions and implants, and how thoughtful planning and prevention can often slow or change that cycle. Patients appreciate that he does not simply recommend the quickest or cheapest fix; he explains the trade-offs so they can choose the level of care that best fits their health goals, timeline, and budget.
Clinical focus
Clinically, Dr. Cho focuses on full-mouth rehabilitation, restorative and cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, and solutions for TMJ and airway-related concerns. When appropriate, he uses an interdisciplinary approach, coordinating with orthodontists, periodontists, and other specialists to support complex care. He also integrates clear aligner treatment (such as Invisalign) when tooth position is an important part of solving functional or esthetic problems. Whether he is restoring a single tooth or planning a full reconstruction, his aim is the same: to address the causes of problems, not only the symptoms, and to create results that look natural and are built to last.
Personal background
Born in Seoul and raised mostly in Suwon, South Korea, Dr. Cho grew up valuing education, hard work, and service. Dentistry appealed to him early because it combines problem-solving, detailed hands-on work, and long-term relationships with patients. After years of practice ownership in Chicago, he and his wife made the decision to move their family to Southern California to be closer to extended family and to build a long-term home in Newport Beach.
Dr. Cho values the trust that comes from clear, honest communication and the privilege of caring for patients over many years. Outside the office, he enjoys staying active, spending time with his wife and son, and continually sharpening his skills through advanced courses, study clubs, and collaboration with colleagues like Dr. Jones.