Here are answers to the questions we’re asked most often. Choose a topic to jump to it. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, call us on 03 337 4596 or email hello@colombostreetdental.co.nz.
Are you taking new patients?
Yes, we’re welcoming new patients. For most new patients, we recommend booking our exam and clean, which covers your check-up, x-rays and a professional clean in one appointment.
If you have a complex medical history, or you haven’t been to the dentist in a while and know there are a few things to look at, we recommend starting with a general assessment instead. This gives your dentist time to check everything and plan your care with you.
Is there parking, and can I get there by bus?
Yes. Parking is available, accessed from Boon Street. We’re on the corner of Colombo Street and Boon Street in Christchurch South, next to Woolworths Beckenham.
If you’re coming by bus, we’re right across from the Route 1 bus stop (towards Princess Margaret Hospital).
Do you charge extra for evening or Saturday appointments?
No. We don’t add a surcharge for evening or weekend appointments. Your appointment costs the same whether you come in on a weekday morning, a weekday evening or a Saturday.
Can you match a quote or treatment plan from another dentist?
Unfortunately not. We need to examine you ourselves before we can recommend or quote any treatment.
Every dentist has a professional and legal responsibility to make their own assessment and diagnosis before treating a patient, so we can’t carry out a treatment plan written by another dentist or match their quote without seeing you first.
We’ll always give you a personalised quote so you know exactly what to expect. Quotes are honoured for 3 months from the date of your treatment plan.
What payment options do you offer?
You can pay by cash, credit card or online banking. We also offer Afterpay, and long-term financing with Q Card for up to 24 months.
If you’re a Southern Cross member, you can use Easy-Claim to claim dental treatment approved under your policy directly at your appointment. See Services & Pricing for more about payment options.
What type of toothbrush do you recommend?
We usually recommend a soft-bristled electric toothbrush. It doesn’t need to be expensive. An affordable one from the supermarket or pharmacy does the job well.
What you’re removing when you brush is soft plaque, so you don’t need hard bristles to get your teeth clean. Hard bristles, or brushing too hard, can wear your gums away over time and lead to gum recession.
Should I use a mouthwash?
For most people, brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth is enough.
If you have gum disease, we may recommend a chlorhexidine mouthwash for a period of time. Chlorhexidine can stain teeth, so we suggest one with an anti-staining formula. Please use it as your dentist advises, and ask us at your appointment which one suits you.
What toothpaste do you recommend?
We recommend a fluoride toothpaste for everyone, as fluoride helps strengthen teeth and protect against decay.
If you have sensitive teeth, a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth can help. Some are designed to give fast relief when rubbed onto the sensitive area. Ask us at your appointment and we can suggest one for you.
Questions about a specific treatment are answered on that treatment’s page, under FAQs:
- Exam & Hygiene: Do I need to see a hygienist? Why can’t I do a professional clean at home? Dental checks for Antarctica travel and before bisphosphonate injections.
- Wisdom Teeth: Are my wisdom teeth making my front teeth crooked? Is sedation only for wisdom teeth?
- Fillings: How do you charge for fillings? What are fissure sealants?
- Crowns & Bridges: What types of crowns do you offer? How long does a crown take?