Meet Dr. Christopher Riolo — Board-Certified Orthodontist in Seattle, WA
Who Is Dr. Christopher Riolo?
Dr. Christopher Riolo is a board-certified orthodontist who provides advanced orthodontic care in Downtown Seattle. He is known nationally for his expertise in lingual (behind-the-teeth) braces, interdisciplinary orthodontics, and aesthetic orthodontic treatment for both adults and children.
What Is Dr. Riolo’s Educational Background?
Dr. Riolo earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry.He completed his Orthodontic Specialty Certificate and Master of Science in Orthodontics at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry.Pursuing a deeper understanding of population health, he later earned a Ph.D. in Public Health (Epidemiology), focusing his doctoral research on infectious disease transmission factors — a foundation that sharpens his data-driven and evidence-based approach to orthodontics.
Where Does Dr. Riolo Teach and Conduct Research?
Dr. Riolo currently serves as an Affiliate Associate Professor in the Department of Orthodontics at the University of Washington, where he mentors residents and participates in clinical research.His academic and research interests include:
- Lingual braces (braces placed behind the teeth)
- Custom orthodontic appliance systems
- Early and interceptive treatment for children
- Interdisciplinary treatment, coordinating multiple dental specialties
He believes that creating beautiful smiles requires education, precision, and lifelong learning.
What Are His Certifications and Professional Memberships?
Dr. Riolo is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) — a distinction earned by less than half of practicing orthodontists in the U.S. Board certification represents a commitment to the highest standards of patient care and clinical excellence.
He is also a member of the Angle Society, an exclusive international group that recognizes exceptional achievement and ethics in orthodontics.
Professional Affiliations:
- American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)
- Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists (PCSO)
- Washington State Society of Orthodontists (WSSO) – past board member
- American Board of Orthodontics (ABO)
- Angle Society, EHASO (Northwest Component)
- European Society of Lingual Orthodontists (ESLO)
- American Lingual Orthodontics Association (ALOA) – current board member
Through these affiliations, Dr. Riolo continues to collaborate with peers globally to advance orthodontic research and treatment innovation.
What Topics Does Dr. Riolo Lecture On?
Dr. Riolo lectures across the United States and internationally on:
- Aesthetic and interdisciplinary orthodontics
- Digital and custom appliance systems
- Lingual (Incognito™) orthodontics
- Advanced treatment planning for complex cases
His work bridges clinical excellence with innovation, helping orthodontists worldwide refine their techniques.
What Does Dr. Riolo Enjoy Outside the Office?
Outside of orthodontics, Dr. Riolo values time with his family. He and his wife, Burcu, have two daughters, Banu and Mina. A licensed pilot since high school, he also enjoys sailing, and skiing around the Pacific Northwest.
Why Choose a Board-Certified Orthodontist?
Choosing a board-certified orthodontist means your care is guided by advanced training, ongoing examination, and a proven commitment to precision and ethics. Dr. Riolo’s combined background in clinical orthodontics, academic teaching, and public health research makes him one of Seattle’s most qualified orthodontic specialists.
