Dental Checkups
How often should I have a dental check-up?
Most patients benefit from a check-up every 6–12 months. Some people with a higher risk of gum disease or decay may require more frequent visits.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes. We use digital X-rays, which involve very low radiation. They're important for diagnosing problems not visible to the naked eye.
Is a dental check-up painful?
No. A check-up is non-invasive. If we need to examine a sensitive area, we’ll do so gently and ensure your comfort throughout the appointment.
Can I ask questions or talk about concerns during my visit?
Absolutely. We welcome your questions. Whether it's about dental health, appearance, or treatment options, we’re here to help.
What if I need treatment after my check-up?
We’ll provide a clear, written treatment plan including the recommended procedures, costs, and timing. There’s never pressure to proceed unless you’re ready.
What does a consultation involve?
Consultations may be basic (focusing on one issue) or comprehensive (such as cosmetic planning or implant assessment), and may involve extra records like 3D imaging or photography.
Are consultation fees included in check-up costs?
No, consultation fees are separate and depend on the complexity of the consultation. We'll always clarify fees beforehand.
Sedation Dentistry
Is sedation safe?
Yes. We follow strict safety guidelines, and our sedation-trained dentists are certified and experienced. You’ll be continuously monitored throughout your procedure.
Will I be asleep during the procedure?
Not quite – with conscious sedation, you’ll be very relaxed and may drift in and out of light sleep, but you’ll remain responsive and able to follow instructions throughout your treatment.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients feel fully recovered within a few hours. However, you must avoid driving or doing anything requiring concentration for 24 hours after sedation.
Do I need someone to come with me?
Yes – you’ll need someone to take you home and stay with you for the rest of the day.
Can sedation be used for any procedure?
Sedation is commonly used for extractions, implants, fillings, and cleaning for anxious patients. We’ll help determine if it’s suitable for your needs.
Do I need a consultation before sedation?
Yes. The dentist needs to assess your medical condition and dental needs beforehand to create a tailored sedation plan. There are also strict instructions to follow before your sedation appointment.
Can I be referred for sedation?
Yes. We accept referrals from other dentists and specialists who don’t offer sedation. You can have specific treatments completed at our clinic under sedation while continuing regular care with your current provider.
Same Day Crowns
How long does the procedure take from start to finish?
Generally, the process takes about 1 to 2 hours (depending on the complexity and whether any preparatory work is required).
Is there additional sensitivity or pain after the procedure?
You may experience mild sensitivity or soreness around the treated tooth, especially if the surrounding tissue was manipulated. This usually subsides within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
What is required of me after getting a same-day crown (care, follow-up)?
Treat your new crown as you would a natural tooth — brush twice daily, floss carefully (especially at the margins), avoid extremely hard or sticky foods initially, and come in for your regular checkups so we can monitor the crown’s integration and integrity.
Dental Hygienist
How often should I have my teeth professionally cleaned?
Most people benefit from a professional clean every 6 to 12 months. If you have gum disease or risk factors, we may recommend a clean every 3–4 months.
Can my dentist just do a quick clean at my check-up?
While dentists assess your oral health during check-ups, professional cleanings are more thorough and handled by hygienists using specialised tools. A quick clean at a check-up doesn’t replace the benefits of a full hygiene visit.
Is cleaning painful?
Most cleanings are comfortable. If your gums are inflamed or teeth are sensitive, we can use numbing gel and gentle techniques to help you feel at ease.
Do you offer sedation for nervous patients?
Yes. For very anxious patients, we offer sedation options so you can feel calm and comfortable during your cleaning.
What happens if I don’t get my teeth cleaned regularly?
Plaque and tartar build up over time, which can lead to gum disease, cavities, bad breath, infections, and even tooth loss.
Can cleaning help with bad breath?
Yes. Removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from your mouth significantly reduces bad breath and improves oral freshness.
Will my gums bleed and become sensitive after cleaning?
It’s common to experience mild gum bleeding and sensitivity after a clean—especially if it’s been a while or if there’s inflammation. This usually settles within a few days with proper home care.
Children and Teens Dentistry
What age should my child first see a dentist?
We recommend booking your child’s first dental visit when their first baby teeth come through — usually around their first birthday. Early visits help your child get comfortable at the dentist and let us check that everything is growing well.
Is dental care really free for kids and teens?
Yes! In New Zealand, routine dental care is free up until your child’s 18th birthday. Children up to Year 8 are usually seen through the Community Dental Service. From Year 9 onwards, teens can be enrolled at QE2 Dental for free care under the Dental Benefit (DB) scheme.
What happens when they turn 18?
Once your teen turns 18, the free dental scheme stops. Any dental care after this will be privately charged. We recommend booking your teen’s last free check-up before their 18th birthday so they don’t miss out.
What if I bring my child to QE2 Dental without a Community Dental referral?
For children up to Year 8, please bring a referral from the Community Dental Service to avoid private charges. If you’re not sure how to get a referral, just give us a call — we’re happy to help.
Is treatment for dental injuries free?
Yes — if your child has a dental injury caused by an accident (like a fall, sports injury or impact), ACC usually covers the cost of treatment. This applies to children, teens and adults too. We’ll help you with the ACC paperwork and explain if there’s any small part charge.
Can you make a custom mouthguard for my child?
Absolutely! While custom mouthguards aren’t free under the scheme, they’re a great way to protect teeth during contact sports. We can make a comfortable, well-fitted mouthguard just for your child.
What if my child has a dental emergency?
Call us straight away if your child has a toothache, broken tooth, or injury. We’ll help you decide whether to come in, visit the Community Dental Service, or go to the hospital if needed.
How do I enrol my teen for free dental care at QE2 Dental?
It’s easy — just call us and we’ll help enrol your teen under the free Dental Benefit (DB) scheme for Year 9 up to age 18. We’ll handle the paperwork and book their regular check-ups.
Dental Implants
How long do dental implants last?
With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, dental implants can last several years—or even decades. Their lifespan depends on your general health, oral care routine, and habits like smoking.
Is getting a dental implant painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic or sedation, so you won’t feel pain during the treatment. Afterward, most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort that usually settles within a few days and can be managed with pain relief.
Are dental implants suitable for replacing multiple missing teeth?
Yes, dental implants can be used to replace single, multiple, or even all missing teeth. Implant-supported bridges and implant-supported dentures are common solutions for patients with multiple missing teeth.
What are the benefits of dental implants compared to traditional dentures?
Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional dentures, including improved stability, comfort, and functionality. Unlike dentures, which may slip or shift while eating or speaking, dental implants are securely anchored in the jawbone, allowing for greater confidence and convenience.
Can I still get implants if I have bone loss?
Yes, in many cases. We may recommend a bone graft to rebuild the area before implant placement. We'll assess this during your 3D imaging and consultation.
Are dental implants safe?
Yes, dental implants are a well-established, safe procedure when performed by trained professionals. At QE2 Dental, we use advanced imaging and guided surgical techniques to ensure precise, predictable outcomes.
Do implants need special care?
Implants should be cleaned just like natural teeth—daily brushing, flossing, and regular professional cleanings are essential. Good oral hygiene and check-ups will help ensure your implant remains healthy long term.
What’s the difference between implants and bridges?
Implants don’t rely on neighbouring teeth for support, so they preserve more of your natural tooth structure. They also help maintain jawbone volume, while bridges may require adjacent healthy teeth to be filed down.
What is the cost of dental implants?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on factors such as the number of implants needed, the complexity of the procedure, and any additional treatments required (such as bone grafting). During your initial consultation, your implant dentist will provide you with a treatment plan and cost estimate.
What are the advantages of guided implants?
Guided implants offer several advantages over traditional implant surgery, including enhanced precision, predictability, and safety. By using advanced technology to plan and execute implant placement, guided implants minimize the risk of complications, reduce treatment time, and optimise long-term outcomes for patients.
Emergency Dental Care
Is my treatment covered by ACC?
If your dental emergency is caused by an accident, ACC usually covers most of the cost, with a small co-payment that we’ll explain clearly beforehand. We handle the ACC claim for you, making the process simple.
Do I need to visit the hospital or dentist?
Most dental emergencies can be treated here at QE2 Dental. Go straight to the hospital or call 111 if you have serious facial swelling with trouble breathing, heavy / uncontrolled bleeding, major facial trauma or a suspected broken jaw.
Dental Fillings
Are white fillings safe?
Yes. Composite fillings are mercury-free, biocompatible, and have been used safely for decades.
How long do fillings last?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, composite fillings can last 5-10 years or more. Amalgam fillings may last longer but are less aesthetic.
Do fillings hurt?
The procedure is usually quick and done under local anaesthetic. Most patients experience little to no discomfort.
Can I replace my silver fillings with white ones?
Yes, Whilst we do not believe every silver filling needs to be replaced, we do offer replacements if you are conscious of or concerned about the dark appearance that silver fillings give. Many patients choose to replace old amalgam fillings for aesthetic or health concerns. We’ll assess whether replacement is suitable.
Is there any special care after getting a filling?
Maintain good oral hygiene, avoid biting hard objects, and see your dentist regularly. Composite fillings require no special care beyond this.
When is a crown or onlay a better option?
In some cases, particularly where a tooth has a heavy bite load or has lost a significant portion of its structure, a white filling may not be the most suitable long-term solution. For these teeth, a ceramic onlay or crown may be recommended instead. These restorations provide greater strength and durability, and they offer improved aesthetics for restoring function and appearance. Your dentist will carefully assess the condition of your tooth and advise on the most appropriate treatment for lasting results.
Root Canals
Is a root canal painful?
No — modern root canal treatment is done under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. Mild discomfort afterwards usually settles quickly.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals are completed in one or two visits, depending on the tooth and level of infection. Your dentist will explain everything before treatment.
Why do I need a crown after a root canal?
After the nerve is removed, the tooth can become more brittle and prone to cracks. A crown protects the tooth, restores its strength, and ensures long-term function.
How much does a root canal cost?
Costs vary depending on which tooth is treated and how complex it is. We will provide a detailed estimate and explain all costs before starting treatment.
I have no pain — do I still need a root canal?
Yes — sometimes an infected tooth may not cause pain at first because your immune system keeps it under control temporarily. However, the infection can worsen unexpectedly, causing severe pain, swelling, an abscess, or bone loss. If an infection is seen on an x-ray or during an exam, it’s best to treat it early to prevent bigger problems later.
What is the alternative to a root canal?
The main alternative is removing the tooth (extraction). If a tooth is removed, you may need a replacement such as a dental implant, bridge, or denture to fill the gap and restore function.
Can a root canal fail?
Root canals have a high success rate, but like any treatment, there is a small risk of reinfection. Regular check-ups help detect any issues early.
What happens if I don’t get a root canal?
If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding bone and tissues, cause more pain and swelling, and eventually result in tooth loss and more complex treatment to replace it.
Teeth Whitening
How long does teeth whitening last?
Results vary by lifestyle, but most patients enjoy a whiter smile for 6–12 months or longer with good care.
Is whitening safe for sensitive teeth?
Yes – we adjust the strength and method to suit you and monitor the process to keep sensitivity low.
Can I whiten crowns or fillings?
No – whitening only works on natural teeth. We can discuss options if you'd like old fillings or crowns to match your new brighter teeth.
How much does teeth whitening cost?
This depends on the option you choose. We’ll provide a clear quote and answer any questions during your consultation.
Veneers
Are veneers permanent?
Veneers are considered a permanent cosmetic solution, as some enamel is removed. However, they may need replacement after 10–15 years due to wear.
How many veneers do I need?
This varies depending on your goals and smile design. Some patients may need 2–4 veneers, while others may choose 6–10 for a complete smile transformation.
Do veneers require special care?
No special care is needed beyond good oral hygiene. Avoid biting hard objects and visit us regularly for professional check-ups and cleaning.
Are veneers stain resistant?
Porcelain veneers are highly stain-resistant. Composite veneers may stain more easily, so good hygiene and limiting staining foods/drinks is helpful.
How long do veneers last?
With proper care, veneers can last 10–15 years. Patients with grinding habits or strong bites may be advised to wear a night guard to protect their veneers.
Clear Aligners
How long does clear aligner treatment take?
Treatment times vary depending on your case, but most treatments take 6–18 months.
Do clear aligners hurt?
You may feel mild pressure when switching to a new aligner set, but most patients find them very comfortable.
How often should I wear my aligners?
Wear them 20–22 hours a day, removing only to eat, drink (except water), brush, or floss.
Are there any food restrictions with Invisalign® or SureSmile?
No! One of the key benefits is that you can eat and drink whatever you like—you simply remove them during meals.
How do I clean my aligners?
Rinse them daily and brush gently with a soft toothbrush. You can also use special aligner cleaning solutions if recommended.
What happens after my Invisalign® or SureSmile treatment is complete?
You’ll likely need to wear retainers to preserve your results. Your dentist will advise you on the type and schedule that best suits your needs.
Is Invisalign® or SureSmile better?
Both are premium systems with excellent results. We’ll help you choose the one that aligns with your treatment needs and budget.
How much does it cost?
Cost depends on the length and complexity of your treatment. We'll provide a full quote and go over flexible payment options during your consultation.
Dentures
Can dentures be fitted immediately after tooth removal?
Yes, we can provide immediate dentures which are placed on the same day as extractions, so you don’t go without teeth. However, because gums and bone change during healing, you may need adjustments or relines as things settle.
How should I care for my dentures?
Clean them daily using a soft brush and denture-safe cleanser (not regular toothpaste), soak them overnight in recommended solution, rinse after meals, and remove them before sleep unless otherwise advised. Also, attend routine checkups so we can assess fit and comfort.
Is eating with dentures hard at first?
There’s a brief adaptation period. We recommend starting with soft foods, cutting items into small pieces, chewing gently and evenly. Over time your coordination and confidence will improve.
When will I need a reline, adjustment, or replacement?
Because your gums and bone may shrink or remodel over time, dentures that once fit well may become loose or cause sore spots. If you experience slipping, discomfort, clicking noises, or changes in your bite, you should come in for an adjustment or reline. Also, after a few years, replacement may be necessary to maintain good function and appearance.
Wisdom Teeth
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No, we evaluate each case individually. If wisdom teeth are fully erupted, healthy, aligned, and not causing symptoms or risk to other teeth, we may recommend monitoring rather than removal.
What age is ideal for assessment or removal?
Wisdom teeth are often assessed in late teens to early 20s. At that age, roots are less developed, potentially making extraction easier and with a faster recovery.
What does the surgery and recovery timeline look like?
The actual extraction often takes less than an hour (depending on complexity). You may expect swelling, discomfort, and limited function over the first 2–4 days. Many patients notice meaningful improvement after that, though full healing may take a few weeks.
What is “dry socket,” and how can it be prevented?
Dry socket is a painful condition that happens when the blood clot that should form in the extraction site is dislodged or dissolves, exposing bone and nerves. To help prevent it, follow post-operative instructions: avoid using straws, don’t smoke, eat soft foods, and keep the area clean as directed.
What food and care restrictions should I follow after surgery?
Stick to cold or lukewarm soft foods (e.g. yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups) for the first few days. Avoid hard, spicy, crunchy, or overly chewy items. Rinse gently (as per your clinician’s instructions), avoid vigorous spitting, and attend your follow-up appointments so we can monitor healing.
Smile Makeovers
What treatments might be included in my smile makeover?
Depending on your needs, your makeover could involve teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, composite bonding, crowns, dental implants, or alignment solutions. We’ll discuss options during your consultation to create a plan that’s both effective and achievable.
How long does a smile makeover take?
Treatment time varies. Some patients see results in a single visit (e.g. whitening or bonding), while others require several appointments over weeks or months (e.g. veneers or orthodontics). We’ll give you a timeline upfront so you know what to expect.
Is a smile makeover only cosmetic, or does it improve function too?
While the focus is on aesthetics, many treatments also improve bite function, tooth strength, and long-term oral health. For example, crowns or implants restore function as well as appearance.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for a smile makeover?
If you’re unhappy with the colour, shape, size, alignment, or spacing of your teeth, or if you want a more harmonious and confident smile, you may be a candidate. We’ll evaluate your oral health first to ensure your gums and teeth are strong enough for cosmetic work.
Dental Bridges
How long does a dental bridge last?
With good care, a dental bridge typically lasts 5 to 10 years, or even longer, depending on the health of the supporting teeth and your daily maintenance.
How much does a dental bridge cost?
The cost depends on how many teeth are being replaced, the type of bridge, and the materials used. Your dentist will discuss your options and provide a clear quote before treatment.
Is a dental bridge permanent?
Yes — a dental bridge is a fixed restoration, securely bonded in place, and not removed daily like dentures. It stays in your mouth and functions like your natural teeth.
Can a dental bridge be replaced?
Yes. Over time, if a bridge becomes worn, loose, or if the supporting teeth change, it can be replaced with a new bridge. Regular check-ups help us monitor its condition and plan any needed replacement.
What are the alternatives to a dental bridge?
If a bridge isn’t the best option for you, other ways to replace missing teeth include:
- Partial Denture: A removable appliance that fills the gap left by missing teeth.
- Dental Implant: A titanium post placed in the jawbone that supports a crown — an excellent long-term option for replacing single teeth without involving neighbouring teeth.
