Dr. Paul Nelson brings generations of family expertise and cutting-edge orthodontic technology to Ballard and Magnolia. Your journey starts with a free consultation.
Nearly six decades of orthodontic care have helped over 7,500 patients in the Greater Seattle Area achieve the smiles they always wanted.
A multi-generational family practice with deep roots in the community and an unbroken tradition of excellent, personalized care.
Your initial exam and all monitoring appointments are complimentary — because starting your smile journey should never feel like a financial risk.
We work with most major insurance plans and offer no-interest financing and family discounts to keep treatment accessible for every budget.
Dr. Nelson holds a DDS and a Master's degree in orthodontics from the University of Washington with ongoing affiliations in leading professional organizations.
Ballard and Magnolia offices with early morning hours and an online patient portal — designed around your life, not just your teeth.
That's why we offer a full menu of orthodontic options — from the latest in clear aligner technology to time-tested braces, customized to your unique needs.
Custom-crafted clear aligners that are smooth, removable, and virtually undetectable — no brackets or wires, with a 96% patient satisfaction rating.
High-grade stainless steel braces that are lighter, more comfortable, and more effective than ever — a time-tested path to lasting alignment.
Translucent ceramic brackets blend with your natural tooth color for a nearly invisible look — the top choice among adult patients.
Advanced bracket technology reduces friction for faster tooth movement, fewer office visits, and a more comfortable experience throughout treatment.
A specialized appliance that gently corrects overbites by encouraging proper lower jaw development without restricting natural movement.
Create space needed for proper alignment, addressing crowding early for simpler, faster treatment.
Custom retainers protect results with multiple style options and detailed guidance for long-term wear.
First evaluation at age 7–8. Catching issues early means simpler, more effective treatment.
Dr. James Nelson founded the practice in 1966. His son Paul joined in 1995. Now, three of Paul's sons are pursuing careers in dentistry. This tradition of care spans three generations.
Nelson Orthodontics is a Seattle institution. Founded in 1967 by Dr. James Nelson, this family practice has spent nearly six decades crafting beautiful, healthy smiles for families across the Greater Seattle Area.
Dr. Paul Nelson joined his father in 1995 and has carried that legacy forward — bringing the same warmth, dedication, and commitment to excellence that built this practice into a trusted name across generations. He earned his DDS from the University of Washington and returned there to complete a Master's degree in orthodontics.
His professional affiliations include the American Association of Orthodontics, the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontics, and the Alumni Board of the UW School of Orthodontics — where he continues to give back to the profession.
Your initial exam and all monitoring appointments are always on us — no financial commitment needed to take the first step toward your best smile.
Digital radiography and the latest bracket and aligner systems for faster, more precise results.
Most insurance plans accepted plus no-interest payment plans and family discount programs.
Doors open at 7am Monday–Thursday so your orthodontic care works around your busy schedule.
From first evaluations at age 7 to discreet adult aligners — about 25% of our patients are adults.
Manage appointments and billing securely online — because convenience shouldn't stop at the office door. Access everything you need from your phone or computer, anytime.
Four simple steps to the smile you've always wanted.
Come in for a complimentary initial exam at our Ballard or Magnolia location. Dr. Nelson evaluates your smile with zero obligation.
Using the latest diagnostic technology, Dr. Nelson designs a personalized plan tailored to your needs and goals.
Your treatment starts — braces, Invisalign, or a specialized appliance. Early morning hours keep the process convenient.
We fit you with a custom retainer to protect your new smile. All follow-up monitoring appointments are complimentary.
Not at all. Teeth can be moved at any age. About 25% of our patients are adults. Clear options like Invisalign and ceramic braces let you straighten your teeth discreetly without putting your professional or personal life on hold.
It depends on the complexity of your case, but advances in materials and techniques have significantly shortened timelines. For many adult patients, treatment can be completed in as little as six months.
Some mild discomfort is normal in the first couple of days after braces are placed as your teeth begin to shift. It subsides quickly and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients adapt faster than they expect.
We accept most insurance plans. We also offer flexible no-interest payment plans and family discount programs for those who qualify, so financial concerns don't stand between you and a healthy smile.
Invisalign uses a series of custom-crafted clear aligners worn 20–22 hours per day to gently move your teeth into alignment. They're smooth, removable, and virtually invisible — a strong option for both adults and teens with busy lifestyles.
We recommend a first evaluation at age 7 or 8. By that age, enough permanent teeth are present for Dr. Nelson to accurately assess development and identify any issues that may benefit from early, simpler intervention.
You'll enter the retention phase, which lasts a minimum of 24 months. We'll fit you with a custom retainer to hold your teeth in their new positions. All monitoring appointments during retention are complimentary.
Join over 7,500 patients who've transformed their smiles with Nelson Orthodontics. No pressure, no commitment — just a warm welcome and a clear picture of your options.