Booking a dentist for the first time, or after a long gap, can feel like a step into the unknown. Here's exactly what happens at your first visit with us, what the $79 new-patient exam covers, and what it costs, so there are no surprises before you book.
Booking in, and what to bring
You can book online at supertooth.co.nz/contact or text us on 022 852 4000, and it only takes a minute. If you're nervous about the dentist, or it's been a while, just say so when you book and we'll plan the visit around that.
There's not much to bring. Your Southern Cross details if you're a member, and a note of any medications you take or health conditions we should know about. If a tooth was hurt in an accident, mention it, because that can change how the visit works.
The $79 new-patient exam, step by step
Your first exam is $79 and includes digital X-rays, which is how we see what's happening between and inside the teeth, not just on the surface. We start with a proper look at your teeth, gums and bite, and a check of the soft tissues in your mouth as part of routine care.
We talk you through what we find in plain English, show you the X-rays on the screen, and answer your questions. There's no rushing and no pressure. If everything's healthy, that's great news and you're done. If something needs attention, we move to the next step.
- 1/Digital X-rays included
- 2/Full check of teeth, gums and bite
- 3/We show you what we see on screen
- 4/A clear plan, with no pressure to decide on the spot
If you need treatment, you get a written quote first
If we find something, like a filling, a clean, or something larger, we explain the options and give you a written quote before anything goes ahead. You decide in your own time. Nothing starts until you've said yes and you know the price.
For most people a first visit is the exam and often a clean, and any treatment is booked for another day. If something's urgent or sore, we'll sort a plan to deal with that quickly.
Making it affordable
We keep the first step low, at $79, on purpose, so cost isn't a reason to put off getting seen. For treatment beyond that, we accept Afterpay and Southern Cross, with Easy-Claim for members, so you can spread the cost.
If money is tight and you're on a low income, Work and Income may help with essential treatment through a grant, and we prepare the written quote you need for free. Separately, if a tooth was damaged in an accident, ACC may cover treatment and we lodge that claim for you.
Why people find us easy to get to
We're at the Auckland Airport Shopping Centre, with free parking right at the door, so you're not circling for a park or feeding a meter. We're open through the week and on Sundays, which helps if weekdays are hard to get away.
We look after the whole family, from a child's first check-up to grandparents sorting dentures, and we take extra care with anyone who feels anxious. Book at supertooth.co.nz/contact or text 022 852 4000, and come and meet us.
Quick questions
- What does the first dental visit cost?
- Your new-patient exam is $79 and includes digital X-rays. If you need treatment after that, we give you a written quote first so you know the price before anything starts.
- What happens at a dental check-up?
- We check your teeth, gums and bite, take digital X-rays, show you what we find on screen, and talk through any options. Often a first visit is the exam and a clean.
- I'm nervous about the dentist. Can you help?
- Yes. Tell us when you book and we'll take it at your pace, explain everything first, and plan the visit around you.
- How do I book a first appointment?
- Book online at supertooth.co.nz/contact or text 022 852 4000. Let us know if it's urgent or if you're a nervous patient.
Sources: New Zealand Dental Association · Dental Council of New Zealand · Te Whatu Ora, oral health information. This article is general information, not a substitute for an examination and personal advice from a dentist. If you're in pain or unsure, book a visit or call 022 852 4000.
