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What To Expect

Specialist Orthodontic Treatment
Specialist Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment takes some time

On average about 18 to 24 months for active treatment. Adult treatment time is generally longer. The length of orthodontic treatment depends on the severity of the problems, the patient’s growth and the level of cooperation. More severe problems take longer and require more cooperation.

The mouth is very sensitive and the introduction of any appliance means a period of adjustment must be expected.

Occasional discomfort may be experienced after the adjustment of braces or plates. The level of discomfort varies widely but most can be remedied by over-the-counter remedies.

Almost all treatments go as planned, but results cannot be guaranteed and to achieve the best possible result, patients must adhere to the recommended treatment plan and be fully committed to doing their part both during the active and retention phases of treatment.

The amount of time spent with the orthodontist is only a fraction of overall treatment time. The Orthodontist is responsible for planning, coordinating and initiating tooth movements. The actual movement of the teeth takes place continuously during normal activities between your visits.

Cooperation of patients (parents) is therefore essential and means:
  • Keeping all appointments as scheduled
  • Wearing all appliances, elastics, headgear, retainers etc as instructed
  • Avoiding activities and foods that could damage or dislodge appliances
  • Maintaining excellent oral hygiene
  • Maintaining a good balanced diet
  • Attending your dentist or school dental therapist regularly during treatment

What our patients say about Totara Orthodontists

Fiona and all her staff are brilliant. Very good , very professional and experienced, very tidy clean clinic, all the staff are kind , polite and really good at what they do, highly recommend for ortho treatment they are professionals and they are actual orthodontists not dentists claiming to be. My oldest child's teeth are beautiful and she's finished her treatment of braces, my middle child is currently in treatment and her teeth are already looking better. My youngest will start her braces treatment in about a year , we will 100 % also be using Totara Orthodontists.

Cass

My son needed to be seen due to his crossbite, Fiona & her team made everything so easy & my son was at ease throughout the whole process. Amazing service from beginning to finish. I recommend Totara Orthodontists to everyone & anyone. Always so welcoming & polite. Thank you.

Gloria Tauaana

I can not recommend Tōtara Orthodontists enough! Fiona is amazing with children and makes them feel so comfortable and relaxed! I’ve had nothing but outstanding service from all the staff over many years! Highly recommend!

Donna Whitaker

A+++++, Absolutely amazing!! Do not waste time looking elsewhere. Situated in a convenient location with parking, also close to the train/bus stations & the mall. A beautifully presented & clean practice. Always greeted by the super friendly reception team & Fiona is just the best & has an excellent team. At the first appointment Fiona is very clear about treatment, the cost & what is achievable so there are no surprises later. There is also payment plans too. The care Fiona provides is next level. She is absolutely amazing with the kids. You can trust Fiona 100% to gain good results. Very quickly you feel a part of the Totara Orthodontists whanau, ❤

Keiley Edmond-Dickinson

Fiona and her team have been outstanding during my son's invisalign treatment, guiding us through every step of the process from the initial assessment to the final "Hollywood smile" result. Couldn't recommend their services more!

Ronja Schipper

My son now has great teeth and an even more fabulous smile. Thank so much Fiona and your great team. We will miss the appointments. And yet it is a 'see you later' rather than 'goodbye' as the next son needs a little work on his teeth to make his smile more beautiful than it already is.

Marie Hickey

I would have no hesitation in recommending Totara Orthodontists. Dr Fiona Turner and her team are always professional, polite and considerate. We were kept informed every step of the way about what to expect during treatment. Great communication and appointment setting. No problems making emergency appointments when brackets broke. I am delighted with their service and help.

Rebecca Moore

I highly recommend Totara Orthodontists. Three members of our family have had Invisalign treatment at the practice and we have been really happy with the results. Dr Fiona Turner and her team provide an exceptional service. They are friendly, knowledgeable and the communication at all steps of the treatment is excellent. The location of the practice next to the New Lynn train station has meant that our children have been easily able to make their own way to their appointments.

Megan McKinnel

Our daughter has recently completed her treatment under the care of Fiona and her exceptional team. She is thrilled with the results, boasting a radiant new smile! We thoroughly endorse Fiona and the dedicated team at Totara Orthodontists.

Jeremy Barron

It has been a pleasure to have Dr Fiona Turner complete the orthodontic work for our sons. She took her time to explain everything thoroughly and understood the needs & outlooks of teenagers very well. She was particularly sensitive to specific needs and medical issues. Both boys love their smiles, and we have no hesitation in recommending Dr Fiona Turner.

Elly & Joel Wilton

Fiona's care of my son's teeth was fabulous and the results were great too. Fiona clearly outlined what was needed, what was happening, and what was next. My son appreciated Fiona's expertise and knowledge of his teeth and her competence and confidence also gave him confidence he was well looked after. The administration staff are excellent too, juggling bookings and ensuring a customer service approach.

Emily Simes

My daughter has been with Totara since her braces journey began. All the ladies have helped her through her time here and its been amazing, so much knowledge and care for us from them, all the way through till today when she got the braces off. I feel that we were so taken care of and my child was never worried or hurt by any procedure she went through for her teeth. We are so thankful to Fiona and the team for everything they have done for me and my daughter. Her teeth look amazing really set her up for life. Huge thanks to you all.

Gina Pooley

I was recommended Totara Orthodontics by my dentist and am nearing the end of Invisalign treatment with Dr Fiona Turner. The service and results from Totara Orthodontics is exceptional. The clinic is not near our home, but the drive has absolutely been worth it. Dr Turner has incredible expertise and a friendly, caring approach. You don't ever feel like 'just another patient'. The clinic is ultra modern with all the latest technology. Highly recommend to anyone seeking orthodontic treatment.

Caroline Gray

My son has being going to Fiona for 2 years now. I love the communication and the care he has had under the team. Has made the process so easy.

Julie-Anne Mellor

Both of my boys had their orthodontic treatments with Fiona at Totara and now I have too. I couldn’t wish for better service, a stunning, spotless practice, and wonderful knowledge and expertise. On top of that the fees are competitive. I wouldn’t hesitate to highly recommend Fiona and her wider team.

Vanessa Baxter

I am very very happy with my orthodontist treatment that I have been getting at Totara Orthodontist. They have been very good at explaining my treatment and also make sure that I am comfortably through out. I would thoroughly recommend them.

Bruce Fletcher