Types of Braces in Mercer Island, WA
Advanced Orthodontics in Mercer Island offers metal braces, clear ceramic braces, self-ligating braces, and Invisalign clear aligners for children, teens, and adults. The best option depends on your bite, how much tooth movement is needed, and your lifestyle, which Dr. Steinhart reviews at a complimentary consultation.
Advances in modern orthodontics mean you now have more choices than ever when it comes to straightening your smile. At Advanced Orthodontics, we offer a range of braces and clear aligner options so patients of all ages can find a treatment that fits their lifestyle, goals, and comfort preferences. Whether you want the reliability of braces or the flexibility of removable aligners, Dr. Todd Steinhart, a Diamond Apex Invisalign Provider, and our team will help you choose the most effective path toward a healthy, confident smile.
What Types of Braces Do We Offer?
Below is an overview of the orthodontic options available at our Mercer Island office. Each treatment is designed to straighten teeth efficiently, improve bite function, and support long-term oral health.
Metal Braces
Ceramic Braces
Invisalign Clear Aligners
What’s the Difference Between Invisalign vs. Braces?
Both Invisalign and braces straighten teeth effectively, but they differ in appearance, flexibility, and treatment style:
Braces:
- Remain fixed to the teeth
- Excellent for complex alignment or bite issues
- No need to worry about removing or losing trays
- Available in discreet options (clear ceramic, self-ligating)
Invisalign:
- Nearly invisible
- Removable for meals and oral hygiene
- No food restrictions
- Smooth trays without brackets or wires
During your consultation, our orthodontic team will explain which option best fits your goals, lifestyle, and orthodontic needs.
Best Orthodontic Options for Each Age Range
Different stages of life may benefit from different orthodontic solutions:
- Kids and early teens (ages 7 to 13): Braces are often ideal during this stage of growth. Keep in mind that during this stage, monitoring might be involved until braces are needed.
- Teens (ages 13 to 17): Clear ceramic braces or Invisalign may be great options depending on responsibility and goals.
- Adults (18+): Many adults prefer Invisalign for discretion, while clear braces and self-ligating braces are strong fixed-appliance options.
No matter your age, there is an effective treatment option for your smile.
How Much Do Braces Cost in Mercer Island?
Braces cost depends on the complexity of your case and the type of treatment. At Advanced Orthodontics, comprehensive treatment starts as low as $5,000, and limited treatment starts as low as $2,500, with no-interest in-house payment plans, down payments as low as $500, and monthly payments as low as $99. We accept most PPO insurance and will file claims for you. You will receive an exact cost at your complimentary exam, before anything begins.
See financing and insurance options
Call Advanced Orthodontics to Schedule a Complimentary Consultation
Choosing the right type of braces is an important step, and our team is here to help you feel confident about your decision. Call Advanced Orthodontics to schedule a complimentary consultation to find out which option is right for you or your child.
- Call: (206) 232-9600
- Visit: 2817 80th Avenue SE, Mercer Island, WA 98040
- Hours: Mon to Thurs 7:30am to 5:30pm, Fri 7:30am to 5:00pm
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right type of braces is an important step toward achieving a healthy, confident smile. Below are answers to common questions about braces options, treatment expectations, comfort, maintenance, and how to determine which orthodontic solution may be the best fit for your needs.
How do I know which type of braces is best for my smile?
The best type of braces depends on your bite, how much tooth movement is needed, and your personal preferences. During your consultation, we evaluate your alignment, jaw relationship, and goals, then recommend the option that will be the most efficient and predictable for your specific case.
Are clear ceramic braces as effective as metal braces?
Yes, in many cases, clear ceramic braces can be just as effective as metal braces for straightening teeth and improving bite alignment. The biggest difference is appearance. Ceramic braces are more discreet, but they may require extra care to keep them clean and prevent staining around the brackets.
Can Invisalign fix the same problems as braces?
Invisalign can correct many of the same concerns as braces, including crowding, spacing, and some bite issues. However, braces are often the better option for more complex movements or severe bite corrections. We recommend Invisalign only when it can deliver the same quality of results as braces for your situation.
Are self-ligating braces easier to keep clean?
Often, yes. Self-ligating braces do not use elastic ties, which means there are fewer places for plaque and food to get trapped. That can make brushing easier for many patients, but good hygiene is still essential with any braces system.
What if I'm not sure which option fits my lifestyle?
That is completely normal, and it is what your consultation is for. We will walk you through the pros and cons of each option (metal braces, clear ceramic braces, self-ligating braces, and Invisalign) and help you choose based on your goals, schedule, comfort preferences, and how discreet you want treatment to be.