Orthodontist Serving First Hill, Seattle, WA

Looking for a trusted orthodontist serving First Hill, Seattle, WA? At Riolo Orthodontics, we specialize in advanced esthetic orthodontic solutions for adults, teens, and children. With more than 25 years of experience, board-certified orthodontist Dr. Christopher Riolo combines cutting-edge digital technology with a focus on truly invisible treatment to create healthy, confident smiles.

From lingual braces placed behind the teeth to 3D-printed LightForce ceramic brackets and clear aligners, we offer orthodontic care designed for comfort, esthetics, and long-lasting function. Patients trust our team for transparent communication, personalized treatment planning, and an experience tailored to their lifestyle.

Board-certified orthodontic specialist: Dr. Christopher Riolo is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and a nationally recognized expert in esthetic and lingual orthodontics.
Leader in invisible treatment: One of North America’s most experienced providers of lingual braces, offering truly hidden orthodontic care.
Advanced digital technology: 3D imaging, digital scanning, and fully customized appliance systems support accuracy, comfort, and predictable results.
Comfort-focused, patient-centered care: Patients appreciate a welcoming environment and a team dedicated to clarity, compassion, and quality outcomes.
A long-standing Seattle orthodontic leader: Dr. Riolo has built a strong regional reputation for delivering esthetic, high-precision orthodontic care.
Orthodontics for all ages: Treatment plans are tailored for children, teens, and adults who want esthetic, functional results.

Convenient Access for First Hill Residents via Madison Street

Riolo Orthodontics is proud to be a top choice for those living and working in the First Hill community! While our office is located just a few blocks away at 509 Olive Way, we provide a seamless and high-end destination for our neighbors in the 98104 ZIP code seeking expert orthodontic care. The commute from First Hill is exceptionally quick, typically taking about 5 to 10 minutes by car or a short trip via the First Hill Streetcar or local transit, bringing you straight into the heart of the downtown retail core.

Our location on Floor 1 of Pacific Place is ideal for busy professionals and families who want to coordinate their orthodontic visits with their urban routine. Whether you are coming from the Seattle University campus, Harborview Medical Center, or one of the many historic residential high-rises on the Hill, our office offers a stress-free arrival. With direct access to the Westlake transit hub and the city’s best shopping and dining, we make it simple and convenient for our First Hill neighbors to achieve a stunning, healthy smile.

Meet Our Board-Certified Orthodontist

Dr. Christopher Riolo

Dr. Christopher Riolo is a board-certified orthodontist and recognized leader in esthetic and invisible orthodontic treatment. He is known for his expertise in lingual braces, interdisciplinary care, and advanced digital appliance systems, providing customized treatment for adults, teens, and children.

Bachelor of Science in Mathematics – University of Wisconsin–Madison
Doctor of Dental Surgery – University of Michigan School of Dentistry
Orthodontic Specialty Certificate and Master of Science in Orthodontics – University of Detroit Mercy
Ph.D. in Public Health (Epidemiology) – University of Michigan
Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics
Affiliate Associate Professor – Department of Orthodontics, University of Washington
Member of American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists (PCSO), Washington State Society of Orthodontists (WSSO), Angle Society (EHASO Northwest Component), European Society of Lingual Orthodontists (ESLO), American Lingual Orthodontics Association (ALOA)

Awards & Certifications

What Financing and Insurance Options Do We Offer?

Orthodontic care is an investment in your smile, and at Riolo Orthodontics, we make it accessible through flexible, transparent financing options. We offer complimentary consultations, no-interest in-house payment plans, and customized payment schedules based on your treatment timeline. Patients can also benefit from discounts for paying in full and savings for multiple family members starting treatment.

Additional options include CareCredit financing, automatic monthly drafts, and flexible payment arrangements. Our team coordinates insurance benefits and reviews all costs during your consultation so you have a clear understanding before beginning treatment.

What Orthodontic Treatments Are Available?

At Riolo Orthodontics, we focus on advanced esthetic treatment options that fit your lifestyle while delivering precise, functional results.

Lingual Braces

Custom brackets and wires are placed behind the teeth, providing powerful correction with treatment that stays hidden from view.

Invisalign Clear Aligners

Nearly invisible removable trays that gradually shift teeth into place while allowing you to eat, brush, and smile comfortably.

LightForce Braces

Fully customized 3D-printed brackets that offer precise, efficient treatment with a more discreet appearance.

Early Orthodontics

Growth-guided care for children that helps address developing issues early and supports long-term bite and smile health.

Teen Orthodontics

Flexible esthetic options designed for active teens, balancing confidence, comfort, and effective tooth movement.

Adult Orthodontics

Discreet solutions such as lingual braces and clear aligners tailored to adult schedules, esthetic goals, and functional needs.

Before & After Gallery

See the Smile Transformations
Discover how advanced orthodontic treatment can enhance both appearance and function. Each case reflects careful planning, digital precision, and personalized care designed for lasting results.

Read What Our Happy Patients Have to Say!

Mila Heerkens

Had a little trouble with my fixed retainer, as a traveller. We just walked in and they gladly had a spot for me. Very kind people, we need more of that in this world.

Lucy

I came to Dr. Riolo after a general dentist attempted to expand my palate at 23 years old and introduced many asymmetries in my face (the picture of me in the purple shirt). In just 2 years, Dr. Riolo was able to finish my treatment and leave me with the beautiful smile I have now. He and his team were able to graciously guide me through the intimidating process of double jaw surgery, and I could not be happier with my results. He and his team are extremely kind, knowledgable, and efficient. I never had to wait for long times at appointments, and I always knew the next step/ had an appt set up before I left the office. It's obvious that Dr. Riolo cares a lot about his patients, his team, and practicing orthodontics at the highest standard. I cannot recommend Dr. Riolo and his team enough; they restored my smile and I absolutely love the result.

Matthew Lee

If you want braces but don't want anyone to know you have them, this is the place. Dr. Riolo has been doing this a long time and clearly knows what he's doing. My lower teeth were seriously crowded (crooked, overlapping, you name it), but after just 8 weeks in lingual braces they've already opened up and look better than ever, and I'm not even done with treatment yet. I highly recommend this place. My only complaint about Dr. Riolo is that he supports Michigan.

Andy Bean

Dr Riolo is the best orthodontist, hands down, I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with, and I’ve been to at least 3 different orthodontists with different treatments over many years. I had lingual braces, which I never tried before, but they worked great and nobody ever knew I had them. Dr Riolo doesn’t try to overengineer things, he listens to feedback, and uses the latest technology to really get down to the micro-adjustment level and takes the time to get things absolutely perfect. His staff is awesome too, very kind, very thorough, and extremely knowledgeable. Don’t go anywhere else. Your search is done!

Gary Smith

Dr. Riolo and his staff have been great. I wasn’t too interested in getting braces at 50, but after talking with them about their inside braces, I decided to go for it. The first few weeks took a little getting used to, but after that you completely forget they’re there—and the fact that no one can even tell you have them is pretty amazing. I highly recommend Riolo Orthodontics. They’ve been extremely prompt and professional throughout the whole process

Max Tomlinson

My permanent retainer broke at 10:30pm one evening. I am not a client of Mr. Riolo but I found his practice on google, his website mentioned a 24/7 emergency email. I sent him an email because my usual orthodontist is from an entirely different city, closed on weekends, and would take days to get me in, but I urgently needed somebody to remove the loose 1-inch wire hanging in my gums. Sure enough, I received an email from Mr. Riolo at 11:00pm on a Saturday, offering to get me in the next morning. I was in his practice the next morning getting the retainer removed and the concrete cleaned off my teeth. In genuinely one of the nicest things somebody has done for me, Mr. Riolo then told me I did not owe him anything. As of writing this I am in the process of moving which has not been cheap at all and I was very worried about the bill an emergency orthodontics service would cost me. To say I was shocked at being charged nothing is too little. I cannot recommend his practice enough. I also wish to thank the woman who assisted during this, at the same early morning time, I apologize for not remembering your name.

Lam Tran

I had an exceptional experience with Dr. Riolo and his entire team. From the very beginning, his expertise and forward-thinking approach truly set him apart—especially in recommending lingual braces. Throughout the entire process, no one could tell I was wearing braces, which was incredibly important to me and speaks to the level of precision and care in his work. Beyond the discreet treatment, the results were outstanding. Dr. Riolo and his team did an incredible job aligning my teeth, and I could not be happier with the outcome. Their attention to detail, professionalism, and commitment to excellence made the entire experience seamless and reassuring. What makes this practice even more special is the people. Dr. Riolo and his team are not only highly skilled, but genuinely kind, welcoming, and attentive. They create an environment where you feel cared for and supported every step of the way. My sister also had her braces done here and had an equally positive experience. It’s clear that they consistently go above and beyond for their patients. We are both extremely satisfied with the quality of care and results we received. I highly recommend Dr. Riolo for anyone considering orthodontic treatment—he is truly among the best in the field.

Alondra Rosales

Dr. Riolo is the best in Washington state, he explains every single detail and all your questions you have regarding braces. He is super sweet and funny, you won't go wrong going here. The best!!

Nick Jones

Dr. Riolo went above and beyond for me and really did a great job. I had a difficult adult case with bite issues and possible jaw surgery. Dr. Riolo worked with me and my dentist over the course of three years and helped me avoid having jaw surgery and ultimately I arrived at an outcome that I am very happy with. During this process, I was able to do all of my treatment using lingual braces and aligners, and because of that, I never had to worry about having any appearance issues while going through treatment. I would highly recommend Dr. Riolo. A+++

Allen Wang

Friendly staff, fast and efficient process, my teeth turned out great from the Invisalign

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing orthodontic care near First Hill means finding a provider that fits your lifestyle and expectations. Here are some questions patients often consider before starting treatment.

What Types of Patients Typically Choose Esthetic Orthodontic Treatment?

Many adults and working professionals prefer esthetic options like lingual braces or clear aligners because they offer effective results while remaining discreet in social and professional settings.

How Customized Is My Orthodontic Treatment Plan?

Every treatment plan is fully customized using digital imaging and advanced diagnostics to ensure precise tooth movement and results tailored to your specific needs.

Can Orthodontic Treatment Be Combined With Other Dental Care?

Yes. Orthodontic treatment is often coordinated with general or restorative dental care to improve both function and overall oral health outcomes.

What Makes Modern Orthodontic Treatment More Comfortable?

Advances in digital technology and customized appliances allow for more efficient tooth movement, reducing discomfort and improving the overall treatment experience.

How Do I Maintain Oral Health During Treatment?

Maintaining good oral hygiene, following care instructions, and attending regular visits all help ensure your treatment progresses smoothly and effectively.