Frequently asked questions

Tell us. It sounds simple, but letting us know upfront, even just a quick note when you book, means we can slow things down even more. We take dental anxiety seriously, and for patients who need a little more support, conscious IV sedation is also available to help you stay relaxed and comfortable throughout.

Bring your child in by age two, or within six months of their first tooth appearing, whichever comes first. Early visits help them get comfortable with the dentist and let us catch anything worth watching before it becomes a bigger issue. The good news is, basic dental care is free for tamariki right through until they turn 18.

Yes. High school aged children receive free basic dental care with us, and we also provide free emergency dental treatment for all children, alongside student discounts. It is part of our ongoing commitment to the Strowan and wider Christchurch community.

We are an accredited ACC provider and also work with WINZ, so if you are eligible for support through either, we can help you access the care you need without it being an added source of stress.

The best way to find out is a proper consultation, where we will assess your jawbone, oral health, and what you are hoping to achieve. As a general guide, implants tend to work best when placed as soon as possible after a tooth is lost, but we will always give you an honest picture of your options rather than a one-size-fits-all answer.

Done properly, whitening is a safe and non-invasive way to brighten your smile. Our in-chair Zoom LED whitening can achieve up to eight shades whiter in about 45 minutes, while take-home trays offer a more gradual result. How long it lasts varies from person to person, but simple habits around diet and oral care go a long way toward making it last.

We generally recommend removal between the ages of 18 and 25, when the roots are less developed and recovery tends to be easier. However, we see patients of all ages for their wisdom teeth so we are all different. Many patients choose conscious IV sedation for the procedure, and Kristine, who has almost ten years of experience with both, will talk you through whether it is the right choice for you.

Both, and it is one of the more surprising things patients learn about us. Beyond softening fine lines, Botox can help relax the muscles involved in teeth grinding and TMJ-related jaw tension, easing genuine discomfort as part of a broader treatment plan.

Most patients do well with a professional clean every six months, though it can vary depending on your gum health and history. We will never make you feel bad about how long it has been. We will just pick up where you are and help you get back on track.

A friendly face and a thorough, unhurried conversation before anything else. We will ask about your history and any concerns, carry out a full examination, and talk you through what we find in plain language, so you leave with a clear plan and no surprises.