Hello
And welcome to our specialist orthodontic clinics located in Merivale and Halswell. We offer a wide range of orthodontic services in a warm, friendly and professional atmosphere. Our range of competitively-priced treatments include Invisalign, metal and clear braces, removable and functional appliances.
We take a patient-focused approach to treatment, which means that we are here to listen to your concerns, provide professional advice, and deliver high quality orthodontic treatment that is based on the latest science & technologies (digital 3D scanning) .
Whether you’re young or old, you will feel at ease as we walk you through each step of the orthodontic journey. You will always find us prepared to go the extra mile because we care deeply about each and every one of our patients' treatment experiences.
That's why we firmly believe that every treatment should be tailored to each person's clinical situation, lifestyle and budget - there is only one constant in every treatment we deliver and that's about making a beautiful, colourful smile!
About Us
Dr Joseph Antoun & Dr Grace Nichols
BDS (Otago), DClinDent (Otago)
Originally from Christchurch, Joseph and Grace gained their dental training (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) and specialist orthodontic training (Doctorate in Clinical Dentistry) from the University of Otago.
In addition to his private practice in Christchurch, Joseph maintains a part-time position at the Faculty of Dentistry as a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Orthodontics. Joe is actively involved in teaching postgraduate orthodontic students and supervising their research projects. His clinical interests include the use of Invisalign and emerging digital technologies. Joseph has supervised several research projects, including over 8 clinical doctorates. He is also the recipient of several highly regarded research grants, and is currently completing his PhD in facial and jaw growth. Joseph has presented some of his clinical and research work both nationally and internationally.
Grace is passionate about orthodontics and the impact it can have on improving the lives of patients. She is committed to creating a patient-focused practice that delivers quality results in a warm, caring and fun atmosphere. Grace is particularly interested in treating children and adolescent who are somewhat anxious about dental treatment - her caring nature and treatment approach is second to none.
Outside of dentistry, Joseph and Grace enjoys cycling, traveling, tramping, squash, tennis and industrial design.
Practice Tour
Papanui Road & Longhurst Health
Merivale & Halswell, Christchurch
Both orthodontic practices are located in modern premises with plenty of parking spaces.
The practices are equipped with the latest digital equipment to ensure a comfortable and efficient experience. The dental surgeries are large and spacious, and adequately equipped with seats for the entire family. The practices also include consultation spaces which are used for holding private discussions about patients' treatments. These spaces include a dedicated large display screen for displaying clinical records (e.g. photos and x-rays) which helps us explain the
orthodontic problems we have identified.
Both practices are easily accessible - the Merivale
branch is located in the heart of Christchurch near
most public and private high schools. The Longhurst
branch is conveniently located near the Southern
Motorway, in the rapidly growing south-west of
Christchurch. We look forward to welcoming you to
our home in the near future.
TREATMENT PHILOSOPHY
Patient-Centered Care
We take a personalised approach to orthodontic treatment which means that we focus on finding the best solution for you. To do this, we have developed a unique practice culture that is friendly, fun and highly professional. Within this environment, we offer a number of important features and services that cater for everyone, and ultimately define our vision of creating beautiful smiles for both young and old.
Patient-
Focused Care
Free Consults
(Under 11)
Multiple
Treatment Options
Flexible
Payment Plans
Professional,
Friendly Team
Family
Discounts
1-on-1
Orthodontist Time
Saturdays
(By Appointment)
WHAT TO EXPECT
Great Experience
FIRST VISIT
Our consultation appointments range between 30 to 45 minutes and are designed to understand your concerns, and carry out a comprehensive clinical assessment of the teeth, jaws and bite. Depending on a patient's age and dental status, we may either recommend further reviews or starting treatment now.
SECOND VISIT
If treatment is indicated, a second appointment (approx. 30 minutes) will be organised to collect treatment records such as high resolution clinical photos, and accurate 3D digital study casts of the teeth. These records allow us to make a detailed analysis of the teeth and bite, and make a recommendation about the best treatment option for you.
GETTING STARTED
Once we've finalised the plan, we will go through all the records with you on a large computer display and explain the entire treatment process. Treatment can start soon afterwards - placing braces or Invsialign takes approximately 60 minutes, while fitting a plate is usually 15 minutes long.
When To See An Orthodontist
Orthodontic Problems
OVERJET
Patients with a large overjet have an increased gap between the upper and lower front teeth (the upper front teeth may sometimes feel like they stick out). The side teeth will often not bite well together as well. The type of treatment often depends on the reason for the large overjet, which may include a forward position of the upper teeth or a small lower jaw.
REVERSE OVERJET (UNDERBITE)
In patients with an underbite, the upper front teeth are tucked behind the lower teeth (normally, the upper teeth sit in front of the lower teeth). This can be caused by a small upper jaw, large lower jaw, or a combination of the two. This condition is also referred to as a Class III malocclusion. Treatment will often depend on the age of the patient and the specific cause of the problem.
SPACING
The presence of spacing between the teeth will often disrupt their alignment and may compromise the bite. Spacing often results from small teeth (relative to the size of the jaws) or missing teeth. The spacing may be generalised across all the teeth, or limited to specific areas. In most cases, treatment will often revolve around closing the spaces with braces or Invisalign.
OVERBITE
Patient with a large overbite have too much overlap between the upper and lower front teeth. Excessive overlap between the front teeth is often termed a "deepbite". In some deepbite cases, the lower teeth can bite against the roof of the mouth, leading to gum-related problems over time. Type of treatment will often depend on the patient's age and severity of the problem, but may include the use of a removable plate and/or braces.
OPENBITE
Patients with an openbite can't bite down on their front teeth (opposite of a deepbite), and often do not show much of their top teeth on smiling. Openbites can be due to several reasons including an ongoing thumb or finger sucking habit, or due to the growth pattern of the upper and lower jaws. Treatment is often directed at the cause of the problem.
CROWDING
Crowding is a common problem which often results from a lack of space in the jaw to accommodate all the teeth in the mouth. This shortage of space can cause teeth to overlap each other, twist around, or be pushed away completely from the rest of the teeth. In cases with severe crowding, some teeth may not erupt at all.
CROSSBITE
Patients with a crossbite will often have one or more teeth tucked behind or inside the lower teeth. In some cases, the lower jaw may be deflected in an improper position due to a premature clash between the teeth in crossbite - this is referred to as a functional shift. Treatment is often directed at correcting the crossbite with a range of appliances such as removables plates and braces.
IMPACTED AND MISSING TeETH
Some teeth do not erupt normally because of a severe shortage of space (i.e. crowding), or because they are genetically positioned to erupt in the wrong direction. A good example of this is the upper canine tooth (3rd tooth from middle). In other cases, the adult teeth may fail to develop completely. Treatment of impacted teeth involves creating the needed space, and sometimes, gently pulling it into the correct position.
TYPES OF BRACES
Wide Range of Choices
BE COLOURFUL
Metal Braces
Our range of metal braces (silver or gold) are particularly common among younger patients who enjoy the colorful rings which are placed over the brackets and wire. Our metal braces also happen to have the smallest footprint of the entire range, which helps facilitate good oral hygiene in younger patients.
LEARN MORE
Metal Braces
Over the years, metal braces have become synonymous with orthodontic treatment. While still a traditional choice, significant improvements in manufacturing techniques have led to a drastic reduction in the size and profile of these brackets. Indeed, our metal brackets have the smallest footprint of our entire range of braces.
Wires, O-rings... & Vibrant Colours!
Once the brackets are glued to the teeth, a wire is carefully placed and secured in each bracket with a coloured o-ring. These rubber o-rings play an important functional role in moving the teeth as they keep the wire pressed against each bracket/tooth. The o-rings also serve another important function - they introduce a bit of fun! At every adjustment you will have the chance to pick up to 2-3 colours from a wide range of vibrant o-ring colours.
And just to add a bit more colour - the brackets themselves come in two distinct varieties - the traditional stainless steel silver and the newer gold-plated alloy.
BE DISCRETE
CERAMIC BRACES
Ceramic (or clear) brackets offer the ultimate aesthetic solution for those requiring fixed braces to correct their orthodontic problems, providing complete tooth control without the fuss! Ceramic braces are a popular choice among teenage and adult patients because of their discreteness.
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Ceramic Braces
Ceramic or clear braces are ideally suited to those who are concerned about having metal braces. The ceramic braces we use have no metal components (apart from the wire that passes through the ceramic brackets), which makes them blend-in with the colour of the actual teeth.
Mix and Match
A large proportion of patients mix and match their braces, electing to have clear braces on their top teeth and metal or gold braces on their lower teeth. In addition to being a good looking combination, using "the smaller" metal brackets on the lower teeth helps facilitate good oral hygiene because of the smaller size of these teeth (especially the lower front teeth).
The lower brackets can either be silver or gold-plated. To see the different combinations up-close, please ask for our typodont models when you visit the practice.
GO INVISIBLE
INVISALIGN
Invsialign is the clear alternative to those not wanting fixed braces. This appliance has no metal components and is completely removable, making it our most aesthetic appliance available. For many adult patients, the flexibility and near invisible nature of the appliance makes it their ideal choice.
LEARN MORE
Invisalign
Invisalign represents the latest way of moving teeth, without the need for any brackets or wires. The Invisalign system involves the use of sequential clear aligners to move teeth in a well controlled and accurate manner. Unlike fixed braces, the aligners can easily be removed when you need to brush your teeth, eat, and play sports. Invisalign is suitable for both teens and adults.
Custom-Made
The first step of starting an Invisalign treatment is getting an accurate record of the teeth and bite (3D study models). A speclisied software is then used to plan the desired movement of the teeth. Once we are happy with the plan, a series of clear aligners are manufactured using 3D modified and printed models. A set of aligners can vary in number, but usually ranges between 14 to 40 aligners. Each aligner is worn for a period of 1-2 weeks. Small attachments (made from white filling material) usually need to be placed on some teeth to deliver specific movements.
FEES & PAYMENT PLANS
Convenient Fee Structures
FREE CONSULTS
FAMILY DISCOUNTS
PAYMENT PLANS
We offer complimentary consults for children under the age of 11 years or those with a referral from Community Dental Service. Once seen, all future recalls (until patient is at the ideal age for treatment) will be free of charge.
We love getting to know our patients so there is nothing more special than treating another family member (including relatives). We have several discount tiers available for family members who receive treatment through us.
We have a number of convenient, in-house payment plans that allow you to spread the cost of treatment over monthly installments. Have more than one child? No problem, we can structure the plans so that you only pay for one child at a time.
(03) 322 1511
Under 11? Or have a referral from Community Dental Service?
CONTACT US FOR A FREE CONSULTATION
CONVENIENTLY LOCATED
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