Have questions about orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontics is the specialist area of dentistry focused on straightening teeth and correcting how the jaws fit together. Using braces, clear aligners and retainers, an orthodontist guides teeth into a healthier position. The result is a better bite, easier cleaning and a smile you’re proud of.

Most bite problems run in families. Crowding, spacing, extra or missing teeth and differences in jaw size are usually inherited. Others are acquired, from habits like thumb or dummy sucking, an injury to the mouth, or losing baby teeth too early.

After qualifying as a dentist, a specialist orthodontist completes a further three years of full-time university training in orthodontics alone. They’re registered as dental specialists in New Zealand and keep up with ongoing professional education. That depth of training means more accurate planning and more predictable results.

No. You can book directly with us online or by calling 07 577 0916, and see us in Tauranga, Whakatāne or Rotorua. If your dentist has already referred you, just mention it when you book.

Absolutely. There’s no upper age limit, and adults can get results just as good as children’s. Treatment may take a little longer because adult bone is denser. Discreet options like Invisalign and clear ceramic braces make it easy to fit into work and everyday life.

For most people, treatment works best once the adult teeth have come through, usually between ages 10 and 14. We still recommend a first check at around 7 to 9. Some issues, like crossbites or very prominent front teeth, are easier to correct while a child is still growing. If it’s too early to start, we’ll book free recall visits to keep an eye on things.

No. Around two-thirds of our patients finish treatment with all their teeth, including many complex cases. Extractions are usually only recommended when crowding is severe or the front teeth stick out a long way.

Not when treatment is planned properly. We assess your facial profile, not just your teeth, before recommending anything. When extractions are part of the plan, it’s to give you the most balanced, natural-looking result, and we’ll explain our reasoning first so you can decide with confidence.

Yes. Once your braces or aligners are fitted, you pay an initial deposit and spread the balance over 18 months. Families with more than one child in treatment also receive a discount. You’ll get a full written quote before treatment starts, so there are no surprises.