Metal Braces in Mercer Island
Let's get straight to it: metal braces still work better than just about anything else for a lot of orthodontic cases. They're not the clunky, headgear-era hardware your parents had.
Modern metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and faster than they've ever been — and for many kids, teens, and adults, traditional braces are still the smartest path to a great result.
If you're looking for a Mercer Island orthodontist who actually specializes in this (and isn't going to push you toward a more expensive option you don't need), you're in the right place.
Key Takeaways
- Metal braces deliver the most predictable results for moderate to complex cases — crowding, bite issues, rotated teeth, and more
- Dr. Alissa Borda is a board-certified orthodontist (ABO Diplomate) and published researcher who grew up on Mercer Island
- Free exams include a complete treatment plan and exact cost breakdown — no surprises
- Metal braces typically range from $3,000 to $7,000; all orthodontic insurance accepted, in-house financing available
- Early morning appointments starting at 7:00 AM — before school or work
- 42 five-star Google reviews and counting
Why Metal Braces Are Still the Gold Standard
Clear aligners get all the marketing buzz these days. But here's what most orthodontic websites won't tell you plainly: for moderate to complex cases — things like significant crowding, bite correction, or rotated teeth — metal braces consistently deliver more predictable results in less time.
That's not a knock on aligners. Board-certified orthodontist Dr. Alissa Borda actually published a peer-reviewed study comparing clear aligners and fixed braces in teenagers. She knows exactly when each option shines.
The difference is she'll tell you which one is right for your situation, not which one has the higher profit margin.
Metal braces work 24/7. There's no forgetting to put them back in after lunch. No worrying about whether your teen is actually wearing them the 22 hours a day they're supposed to. They're on, they're working, and Dr. Borda is in full control of the movement from start to finish.
What Metal Braces Fix
Metal braces are effective for a wide range of orthodontic issues, from straightforward to complex:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth — when teeth don't have room to sit straight
- Gaps and spacing — closing spaces between teeth evenly
- Overbite — upper teeth sitting too far forward over the lower teeth
- Underbite — lower jaw extending past the upper jaw
- Crossbite — upper and lower teeth not lining up properly from side to side
- Open bite — front teeth that don't touch when the mouth is closed
- Protruding teeth — front teeth that stick out and are more vulnerable to injury
- Impacted teeth — teeth that haven't fully erupted and need to be guided into position
Not sure what you're dealing with? That's exactly what the free exam is for. Dr. Borda will walk you through everything she sees and give you a complete picture of your options — with real numbers, not vague estimates.
What Getting Braces Actually Looks Like (Step by Step)
One of the biggest sources of anxiety — especially for parents — is just not knowing what to expect. Here's the actual process at Islander Orthodontics:
Your Free Exam
Your first visit is a full evaluation, not a sales pitch. Dr. Borda examines your teeth and bite, takes any necessary images, and sits down with you to explain exactly what she recommends and why. You'll leave with a clear treatment plan and a complete cost breakdown. No surprises later.
Families tell us the consult feels "professional, clear, quick, and efficient" — and Dr. Borda answers every question. That's a big deal when you're making a decision this important.
Braces Placement Day
Getting braces put on takes about 60–90 minutes. It doesn't hurt. Dr. Borda bonds small metal brackets to each tooth and connects them with a wire that applies gentle, consistent pressure. You'll walk out with a smile that's already starting its transformation.
You might feel some tightness or soreness for the first few days as your teeth begin to shift. Totally normal, and it fades quickly. Soft foods and over-the-counter pain relief are usually all you need.
Regular Adjustment Visits
You'll come in roughly every 6–8 weeks so Dr. Borda can check progress, swap out wires, and make adjustments. These appointments are quick — usually 15–20 minutes.
This is where Islander Orthodontics makes life easier for busy Mercer Island families: the office opens at 7:00 AM, so you can get adjustments done before school at MIHS or before heading to work in Bellevue or Seattle. Finding time for a 15-minute adjustment shouldn't mean rearranging your entire week.
Braces Come Off
Treatment time varies — typically 12 to 24 months depending on complexity — but the day they come off is a good one. You'll get retainers to keep everything in place, and Dr. Borda will go over exactly how and when to wear them.
Want to see what kind of results to expect? Check out the before-and-after gallery.
Metal Braces vs. Clear Aligners: A Quick, Honest Comparison
Since you searched for metal braces specifically, you might already have a preference. But here's a straightforward comparison in case you're still weighing both:
Metal braces tend to be the better fit when:
- The case involves significant crowding, rotation, or bite correction
- The patient is a younger teen who might not wear aligners consistently
- You want a more hands-off approach (no removing trays to eat or brush)
- Treatment needs to be as predictable and controlled as possible
Clear aligners tend to be the better fit when:
- The case is mild to moderate
- Appearance during treatment is a top priority
- The patient is disciplined about wearing them 20–22 hours a day
- The patient is an older teen or adult
Here's the thing — this isn't a decision you need to make on your own. Dr. Borda's published research is literally about this comparison. She'll give you an honest recommendation based on your specific case, not a one-size-fits-all answer.
Why Mercer Island Families Choose Islander Orthodontics for Braces
There's no shortage of orthodontists on the Eastside. So why do families across Mercer Island, Bellevue, Renton, and Newcastle drive to the Mercerdale Professional Center?
Dr. Borda is from here.
She grew up on Mercer Island — Pixie Hill through MIHS, class of 2002. She played basketball and softball for the Islanders. She left to earn three graduate degrees and complete an orthodontic residency at OHSU, then came back to open her own practice and serve the community she grew up in. This isn't a corporate chain that planted a flag on the Island. It's a hometown orthodontist who chose to come home.
She's board-certified — and that matters.
Dr. Borda is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, the highest voluntary credential an orthodontist can earn. Not all orthodontists pursue it. It means she's submitted her cases for peer review and passed a rigorous examination beyond her specialty training. When someone is placing brackets on your teeth and controlling how they move over the next 18 months, that level of accountability matters.
She's genuinely great with kids.
This comes up over and over in reviews: families describe Dr. Borda as "patient with nervous kids" and "thoughtful and caring." She takes time to answer every question, and her team gets back to you quickly when you call or message. That sounds simple, but anyone who's dealt with a front desk that never returns calls knows how rare it is.
The schedule actually works for real life.
The office opens at 7:00 AM, so you can knock out an appointment before the school bell rings or before your commute. Parents consistently mention how much the early morning availability helps with juggling school and work. You shouldn't have to burn a vacation day for a 15-minute adjustment.
How Much Do Metal Braces Cost on Mercer Island?
This is the section most orthodontic websites skip or bury. Here's what we can tell you:
Metal braces on Mercer Island generally range from $3,000 to $7,000 depending on the complexity of the case and the length of treatment. Straightforward cases with minor crowding will cost less than complex bite correction that takes two years.
At Islander Orthodontics, your free exam includes a complete cost breakdown — the actual dollar amount for your specific case, not a range you found on the internet. You'll know exactly what you're looking at before committing to anything.
Here's how the practice makes braces affordable for families:
- All orthodontic insurance accepted — the team handles the paperwork and maximizes your benefits
- In-house financing — monthly payment plans set up directly through the office, no third-party lender
- Pay-in-full discount — save when you pay upfront
- All major credit cards accepted
For full details on payment options, visit the payment page.
The bottom line: don't let cost uncertainty keep you from at least getting the numbers. The exam is free, and there's zero obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Braces
Getting braces placed doesn't hurt. You may feel pressure and mild soreness for a few days after placement and after adjustment appointments as your teeth begin to move. Most patients manage this easily with soft foods and over-the-counter pain relief. The discomfort is temporary and fades quickly.
Most metal braces treatments take between 12 and 24 months. The exact timeline depends on the severity of your case. During your free exam at Islander Orthodontics, Dr. Borda will give you a realistic estimate based on your specific teeth and bite.
Neither option is universally "better" — it depends entirely on the case. Metal braces tend to deliver faster, more predictable results for complex issues like significant crowding, bite problems, and tooth rotation. Clear aligners work well for mild to moderate cases in patients who will wear them consistently. Dr. Borda has published peer-reviewed research comparing both and will recommend the best fit for you.
Absolutely. There's no age limit on orthodontic treatment. More adults are getting braces than ever, and metal braces remain one of the most effective options for adults dealing with crowding, bite issues, or teeth that have shifted over time.
Metal braces typically range from $3,000 to $7,000 depending on treatment complexity. Islander Orthodontics offers free exams with a complete cost breakdown for your specific case. The practice accepts all orthodontic insurance, offers in-house financing, and provides a pay-in-full discount.
You'll want to avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods that can damage brackets or wires — things like caramel, hard candy, popcorn kernels, ice chewing, and whole apples (slice them instead). Dr. Borda's team will give you a clear list at your placement appointment, and it becomes second nature fast.
Brushing takes a little more time and attention with braces. You'll brush after every meal, use a floss threader or water flosser to clean between teeth, and keep up with your regular dental cleanings. Dr. Borda's team will walk you through the best techniques and tools at your appointment.
Schedule Your Free Exam
Ready to find out if metal braces are the right move? Visit Islander Orthodontics at our Mercer Island office for a free exam with a complete treatment plan and cost breakdown — no obligation, no pressure.
Islander Orthodontics
Mercerdale Professional Center
3236 78th Ave SE #102, Mercer Island, WA 98040
Early morning appointments available — open at 7:00 AM
Book Your Free Exam
Serving families across Mercer Island, Bellevue, Renton, Newcastle, and Seattle
Or call us at (206) 707-7650
Islander Orthodontics
Mercerdale Professional Center (lower level)
3236 78th Ave SE #102, Mercer Island, WA 98040