New Patient Information

Using state of the art orthodontic techniques, the Riccarton Orthodontic Practice has improved the smiles of thousands of Canterbury children and adults since 1992.  Our practice provides optimal treatment comfort, function and aesthetics for the long term.

We appreciate the opportunity to provide for your orthodontic care and look forward to welcoming you and your family to our practice.

In an atmosphere of comfort and trust, Dr’s Crooks, Fowler and Lovatt believe in getting to know their patients.

Specialising in orthodontics for patients of all ages and stages of life, the Riccarton Orthodontic Practice is technologically progressive with a family-orientated focus. 

Our VISION is excellence in orthodontic treatment and service.

To achieve the practice vision the orthodontists and their team have established three essential business values.

Service Excellence:- consistently providing a level of service that exceeds client expectations.

Commitment:- dedication and loyalty to the practice and its vision.

Innovation:- investigate new ideas and promoting original and creative thinking.

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The team strives to uphold the business values in every aspect of orthodontic practice from the first time you contact us until you have finally completed your orthodontic treatment and subsequent retention.

Your first visit to our practice is an opportunity for us to get to know each other.  

An information packet will be posted or emailed to you once you have made your first appointment. Prior to this first visit we ask that you forward or email the following information to the practice;

• Completed medical history form (can be downloaded here)
• Treatment expectations form (can be downloaded here)
• Referral letter (if referred by School Dental Therapist or Dentist)
• Any X-rays or records you may have
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    • Email: info@braces.co.nz
    • Post in the prepaid self addressed envelope supplied by the practice (Riccarton Orthodontic Practice, 3^rd Floor, AMI House, 116 Riccarton Road, Christchurch)
    • Fax to: 03 3482857
  
  

  Download our medical form

  Download New Patient Treatment Expectations (Child)

  Download New Patient Treatment Expectations (Adult)

  These can be sent via: Re-scanning and emailing to info@braces.co.nz or faxing to us on 03 3482857 or mailing to Riccarton Orthodontic Practice PO Box 8541, Riccarton Christchurch 8041.

   

  During your preliminary examination Dr’s Crooks, Fowler or Lovatt will assess your orthodontic requirements and discuss your concerns and expectations.  Patients who are not ready to begin treatment will be regularly monitored for future dental development and facial growth.  If orthodontic treatment is indicated, diagnostic records, including necessary x-rays, photographs and dental impressions for study models, will be carried out at this appointment.  With these records Dr’s Crooks, Fowler or Lovatt will determine the specific diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

  What is the right age for treatment?

  It is recommended that  children see an orthodontist by the age of ten, or even earlier if a parent, school dental therapist or dentist discovers a problem.

  The timing of orthodontic treatment can be important and can greatly affect the treatment result.  Early diagnosis and treatment by a specialist can help guide facial growth and dental development, which can often prevent more serious problems from developing.  Whatever the age of the patient, our goal is to provide the very best and most stable results, whilst minimising treatment time in braces.

  The development of less noticeable braces has contributed to an increase in popularity of adult orthodontic treatment.  The Riccarton Orthodontic Practice is proud to be one of the few orthodontic practices in New Zealand to offer Invisalign (clear aligners) as well as Lingual braces (braces behind the teeth) treatment options. 

• Finance that suits

  As everyone has different financial obligations we offer several payment options to fit your needs:

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    • Payment in full: This rewards you with a discount
    • Automatic monthly installments: Arranged though your bank to commence after an initial deposit has been paid.
    • Credit card payment: Accepted for the initial visit, payment in full or initial deposit only.
  
  

  Scheduling appointments

  Successful orthodontic treatment requires a series of appointments.  We recognise the importance of your daily routine which revolves around work and school hours, therefore, we have structured our appointment schedule accordingly.  Most routine adjustment appointments are scheduled before 9am and after 3pm.  However, longer more complex appointments and any emergency appointments will be scheduled during the day.

  Should you need to reschedule an appointment we ask that you contact our practice as soon as possible.  We need to keep you or your child on schedule with treatment.