FAQ

An orthodontist specialises in straightening teeth and correcting bite issues. They use braces, aligners and other appliances to guide teeth into the right position and improve both function and appearance.

The Big Grin provides a full range of orthodontic options, including fixed appliances (braces), removable appliances, and clear aligners such as Angel Aligners and Invisalign. We tailor each treatment to suit your needs and lifestyle.

Treatment time varies from person to person. Most patients wear braces or aligners for 12 to 24 months, followed by a period of retention. We’ll give you a personalised treatment plan so you know exactly what to expect.

After de-band day, you’ll move into the retention phase. We’ll fit a thin wire behind your teeth and provide a removable retainer to keep your teeth in their new position. Regular check-ins help ensure your smile stays beautifully aligned.

Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean. This can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, abnormal wear of the tooth surface, inefficient chewing action and excessive strain on gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth.

Most untreated orthodontic issues worsen over time. Treatment by a specialist to correct the original problem is often less costly than the additional dental care required to treat serious problems that can develop in later years.

In addition, well-aligned teeth and a properly functioning bite are key ingredients to a beautiful smile. Orthodontic treatment can bring the teeth, jaw and mouth into proportion with the face, increasing self-esteem and confidence.

Both options can successfully straighten teeth. Braces are ideal for complex corrections, while clear aligners offer a more discreet, removable alternative. Your orthodontist will help you choose the best option based on your teeth and your goals.

Your first visit is a free consultation where we chat about your concerns, check your teeth and explain the treatment options available. It is a relaxed appointment designed to help you decide if The Big Grin is the right fit for your smile journey.

The recall appointment helps us monitor how your teeth are changing. It is a quick follow-up visit, and we will send you a postcard reminder when it is time to book.

These records help us understand your teeth, bite and jaw positioning. They give us the information we need to design the most accurate and personalised treatment plan for you.

If you have braces, you will return every 4 to 6 weeks for adjustments. These regular visits keep your treatment moving smoothly. Our satellite clinics make it easier to attend appointments close to home.

After your braces come off, you will move into the retention phase. We will place a small wire behind your teeth and provide a removable retainer to help keep your teeth in their new positions. We will see you for follow-ups to ensure everything stays on track.

A dentist helps you look after your teeth, gums, and overall oral health. They perform check-ups, treat tooth decay, repair damage, and help prevent future problems, keeping your smile healthy and strong.

Most people should visit the dentist every six months for a check-up and professional cleaning. Regular visits help detect early signs of decay or gum disease before they become bigger issues.

The Big Grin offers comprehensive dental care, including preventative, restorative, and cosmetic treatments. From check-ups and fillings to crowns, implants, and teeth whitening. We’re here for all your dental needs in one place.

Yes! The Big Grin provides free dental services for teens from Year 9 until their 18th birthday as part of the New Zealand Government’s subsidised dental programme. This includes check-ups, cleans, fillings, and more. Orthodontic and cosmetic treatments are not included.

Your first visit includes a friendly chat about your dental history and any concerns you have, followed by a full oral health check. We’ll explain your treatment options clearly and help you feel relaxed and informed.

If your treatment requires specialist care (such as complex surgery or orthodontics), Dr Zohnia and our team will refer you to a trusted specialist. We’ll coordinate your care so everything stays simple, seamless, and stress-free.

You can reach out online or give our team a call. We will arrange a time for you to visit our main Christchurch clinic or one of our satellite practices for your initial consultation.

Yes! We have plenty of on-site parking at all of our locations. Our Papanui clinic is also on a major bus route for easy access.

Yes, we do. Please reach out to our team to talk about our payment options.