WELCOME!

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 pledges to provide 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-oriented focus.  All three orthodontists are full members of the New Zealand Association of Orthodontists, the New Zealand Dental Association and the World Federation of Orthodontists.

Your first visit
Your first visit to our practice is an opportunity for us to get to know each other.
Tip: Check out our virtual tour of the practice
We ask that you bring:

• A completed medical history and treatment expectations form (which you can download here, or alternatively we will send these out to you when you confirm your visit)
• Referral letter (when appropriate).
• Any x-rays or records you may have.

An information packet will be posted or emailed to you before your first appointment.

Download our medical form.
Download our treatment expectations form.


During your preliminary examination, Drs Crooks, Fowler or Lovatt will discuss your orthodontic health and how your orthodontic problem should be treated.  Patients who are not ready to begin treatment will be regularly monitored for future dental development and facial growth.  If orthodontic treatment is indicated, time is available for diagnostic records, including necessary x-rays, photographs and dental impressions, for study models to be collected at this initial appointment.  With these records Drs Crooks, Fowler or Lovatt will determine a specific diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Right age for treatment?

Dr’s Crooks, Fowler and Lovatt recommend 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 extremely 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 noticable” 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 the choice of “ClearSmile” or “Invisalign” clear aligners as well as “Lingual” (braces behind the teeth) treatment options.  Because these new options are more discreet and convenient, patients of all ages can appreciate the benefits of great orthodontics - A great smile, improved self-confidence and better dental health.

Finance that suits

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

1.  Payment in full: This rewards youwith a discount

2. Credit Card Payment:  Accepted for the initial visit, payment in full or initial deposit.

3. Automatic Monthly Installments: Arranged though your bank to commence after an initial deposit has been paid.

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 adjust appointments are scheduled before or after school or working hours.  However longer, more complex 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.