Answers that help you feel informed, prepared and at ease.
From booking and payments to same day crowns, comfort options and digital technology, here are the questions patients ask us most often before they visit.
Clear answers, thoughtful care, and a team that helps you know what to expect.
What patients usually want to know
Booking, nervous patients, payment options, same day crowns, aligners and what your first visit is like.
- How appointments and follow-ups work
- What technology we offer in-house
- Ways to make treatment feel more comfortable
- Where to start if you are unsure what you need
Start with the topic that fits your question.
We have grouped the most common questions into a few simple sections to make this page easier to scan.
Questions about organising your care.
These are the most common questions around booking, provider preferences and getting started with us.
How do I reschedule or cancel my appointment?
Please call us on 09 391 7777 or email info@wsd.nz as soon as possible. Giving plenty of notice helps us offer that time to another patient and makes it easier to find you a new appointment.
Which provider will I be seeing?
Your booking confirmation will usually show your clinician. If you are unsure, just contact our team and we will happily confirm who you are booked with.
What if I want to book or rebook with a different provider?
That is absolutely fine. Let us know who you would prefer to see, or what matters most to you, and we will do our best to match you with the right clinician.
Can I text you instead of talking on the phone?
For urgent or important appointment changes, calling is usually best so we can help quickly. For general questions, you are also welcome to email us.
How do I book a follow-up visit?
In many cases, we will organise your next appointment before you leave. If not, you can book online, call us, or contact our team and we will help schedule the right follow-up.
Where do I fill out my new patient paperwork?
We usually send your forms before your visit so you can complete them online. If you have not received them, let us know and we can resend them.
What services do you offer?
We offer cosmetic, preventive and restorative dentistry, including examinations, hygiene appointments, fillings, crowns, veneers, same day ceramic dentistry, wisdom teeth care, implants, clear aligners, digital imaging and more.
What if I need something not listed?
Contact us anyway. If we can help, we will guide you. If your needs are better suited to another provider or specialist, we can point you in the right direction.
What your appointment may feel like and how we support you.
These questions cover first visits, nervous patients, second opinions and family care.
When should I arrive for my appointment?
We recommend arriving about 5 to 10 minutes early, especially if it is your first visit, so you have time to settle in before your appointment begins.
What if I miss my appointment?
Please contact us as soon as you can. Missed appointments affect clinical scheduling, so reaching out quickly helps us work out the next best step with you.
I’m nervous about the dentist. Is there anything you can do to help?
Absolutely. Many patients feel anxious about dental treatment. We focus on calm communication, gentle pacing, clear explanations and comfort-led care. For suitable treatment, sedation options may also be available.
Do you see children?
Yes, we see children and families. Our team aims to create a positive, reassuring experience and help younger patients feel comfortable at each stage.
What if I want a second opinion?
You are very welcome to book for a second opinion. We will assess your concerns, explain what we see clearly, and talk through your options without pressure.
Can I tell you my preferred name or pronouns?
Yes. Please let our team know and we will do our best to make sure your preferred name and pronouns are used respectfully during your care.
What is a first appointment usually like?
Your first appointment will depend on why you are visiting, but it often includes discussing your concerns, an examination, any necessary X-rays or imaging, and a clear conversation about what we recommend next.
Understanding payment options before treatment.
We aim to make treatment costs as clear and manageable as possible.
How do I pay my bill?
We accept a range of payment methods, including major credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay and selected finance options.
Do you take dental insurance?
We can provide the documentation you may need to claim through your insurer. If you have questions before treatment, our team can help you understand the process.
Does insurance cover fillings, crowns, implants and other procedures?
That depends on your individual policy. Cover can vary widely, so we recommend checking directly with your insurer for specific inclusions, limits and waiting periods.
Do you offer finance or flexible payment options?
Yes. Depending on the treatment, we may be able to offer options such as Afterpay, Zip Pay, Loan Haus or Q Mastercard. Our team can guide you on what may be suitable.
Will I know the cost before treatment starts?
Yes, wherever possible. We aim to explain recommended treatment clearly and discuss fees before proceeding, so you can make an informed decision.
Questions about the technology we use and why it matters.
This is where patients often ask about same day crowns, scanning, digital imaging and modern treatment planning.
Same Day Ceramic Dentistry
We use in-house digital workflows that can allow suitable crowns and certain ceramic restorations to be designed, milled and delivered on the same day.
Digital Scanning
In many cases, digital scans can replace traditional impressions, making the process cleaner, faster and more comfortable.
Advanced Imaging
Digital X-rays and CBCT imaging can help with clearer diagnosis, planning and case assessment where needed.
Clear Aligner Planning
SureSmile treatment uses digital planning to map tooth movement more clearly and help visualise your treatment journey.
Do you offer same day crowns?
Yes, for suitable cases. Our in-house digital technology and milling workflow can allow some crowns to be completed in a single visit, depending on the tooth, the treatment required and the clinical situation.
Do you make same day veneers as well?
Some same day ceramic veneer cases may be possible where clinically appropriate. This depends on your smile goals, the teeth involved and the treatment plan your dentist recommends.
Do I still need messy impressions for crowns or aligners?
Often, no. We frequently use digital scanning instead of traditional impressions, which many patients find more comfortable and more convenient.
Do you offer CBCT or 3D scans?
Yes. We offer CBCT or 3D imaging where clinically needed. This can be especially useful for planning more complex treatment, including extractions, implants and some diagnostic cases.
Do you offer SureSmile Clear Aligners?
Yes. We offer SureSmile clear aligner treatment for suitable patients who want a more discreet way to straighten their teeth.
How long does SureSmile treatment usually take?
It depends on the complexity of your case and your smile goals. Some cases can be completed in a matter of months, while others take longer. After an assessment, we can give you a clearer timeframe.
Why does your technology matter to me as a patient?
Modern dental technology can help make treatment more precise, more comfortable and often more efficient. It can also improve planning, communication and the overall patient experience.
Visiting Waiata Shores Dental.
These questions cover where we are, how to get here and what the practice feels like.
What is the practice like?
Our practice is modern, welcoming and technology-led, designed to feel calm, clear and reassuring from the moment you walk in.
Where are you located?
We are located at 7/2 Te Napi Drive, Takanini, Auckland 2112.
Where can I park?
There is convenient parking nearby. If you are unsure before your visit, contact our team and we will help guide you.
Can I get there by public transport?
Yes. We are conveniently located for patients travelling from across South Auckland, and Te Mahia train access is nearby.
Is the practice wheelchair accessible?
If you have mobility or access needs, please contact us before your appointment so we can help make your visit as smooth as possible.
Got a question that’s not covered above?
Our team is happy to help with bookings, treatment questions, payment options or where to start if you are not quite sure what you need.