Katy RosserFrom the dreaded rubber bands to the endless appointments, achieving that ideal smile can sometimes hurt more than expected.
My orthodontic experience was a nightmare—a mix of misaligned teeth and painful adjustments. My dentist even seemed more interested in leaving than in straightening my teeth.
I know I’m not the only one who’s had this experience.
After hearing about others’ struggles, I decided to enlist the help of the Auckland Magazine team. We set out to find the best orthodontists who prioritize patient comfort, use the latest technology, and genuinely care about your smile.
Here’s who made it onto our list.
How much does it cost to see an orthodontist in Auckland?
It costs at least 4,000 NZD to see an orthodontist in Auckland.
This price is just an estimate. The final cost will depend on the type of treatment, its duration, and the orthodontist’s fees.
1. Dr. Coreen Loke – Botany Orthodontics
Address: 2/123 Ormiston Road, Flat Bush
Contact Details: +64 9 265 0085
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday – 9 AM to 1 PM
- Wednesday & Thursday – 9 AM to 6 PM
- Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Dr. Coreen Loke’s kind and caring approach really stood out to us. Her dedication to ensuring patients feel at ease was also evident.
Aside from that, we appreciated Dr. Loke’s multilingual skills. She’s fluent in Malay, Cantonese, and Mandarin. Patients have expressed gratitude for her ability to explain treatment plans in their native language.
Another feature we liked is that Dr. Loke is always updated with the latest advancements and techniques. For instance, her use of digital X-rays allows for more accurate treatment planning.
While she mainly specializes in orthognathic surgery, we were pleased to see how she collaborates with oral maxillofacial surgeons. This partnership offers a comprehensive, holistic approach to treatment.
However, we were disappointed by the challenging appointment process. In our experience, securing an appointment that fit our schedule took several calls.
An absolute pleasure to work with
“Amazing orthodontist!!!
Dr. Coreen Loke is about the kindest and friendliest person I’ve met. She is an absolute pleasure to work with, and I’m super happy with the beautiful smile I now carry.”
–Erik Pistorius, Google Reviews
Patient and professional
“Dr. Coreen and her team have made an amazing change to my teeth. They have helped me to bring back my smile, also improved my bites which is the most important thing that I needed. I wish to thank Dr. Coreen and her team for their patience and professionalism in helping me to regain my confidence. I would highly recommend Dr. Coreen and her team thank you👍”
–Cindy Cartoon Life, Google Reviews
2. Dr. Rachel Smith – Eden Orthodontics
Address: 114 Dominion Road, Mount Eden
Contact Details: +64 9 623 4104
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 8:30 AM 5:30 PM
- Friday – 9 AM to 1:30 PM
We’ve seen the before-and-after photos of Dr. Rachel Smith’s patients, and we’re so impressed with the results! She has a talent for aligning teeth and creating beautiful smiles—and we’re all about it.
Her expertise across various orthodontic treatments is a major plus for us. Her services include traditional braces, Invisalign, and the latest 3D-printed options.
We’re big fans of the 3D scanners they use to take digital impressions of your teeth. It’s super cool and much more convenient than traditional molds.
Many patients have raved about her gentle touch when tightening the wires for traditional braces. We love how quick she is with adjustments—you’re in and out in no time.
We also liked that the clinic’s atmosphere is warm and welcoming. This clearly reflects Dr. Smith and her team’s passion for their work.
We found her use of the Dental Monitoring app convenient. You can send pictures of your progress from anywhere. She can tell you what to do next—no office visit is required!
However, be prepared if you do need an appointment. Her schedule is often booked weeks in advance.
Efficient, friendly, and thoughtful
“Rachel and her team were great. Super efficient, friendly and thoughtful. My teeth look fantastic so I’m completely happy. Thanks guys!”
–Francine Johnson, Google Reviews
Professional and impressive team
“Super happy with Rachel and her impressive team! Slick, professional and never kept waiting long! Thanks a bunch!”
–Kathryn Hagen, Google Reviews
3. Dr. Mo Al-Dujaili – Shakespeare Orthodontics
Address: 39 Taharoto Road, Takapuna
Contact Details: +64 9 216 6888
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
- Friday – 8:30 AM to 4 PM
We were genuinely impressed by Dr. Mo Al-Dujaili’s knowledge and his unwavering dedication to helping his patients get that perfect smile.
What stood out to us was his holistic approach to treatment. He carefully considers the teeth, jaw joint, and overall facial structure.
What really made him remarkable, though, is his specialization in orthognathic surgery and TMJ disorders. These complex issues can cause jaw pain and difficulty chewing, yet Dr. Al-Dujaili addresses them with skill and compassion.
In fact, many TMJ patients shared how Dr. Al-Dujaili alleviated their pain. Dr. Al-Dujaili used orthodontic treatments, custom mouthguards, and physical therapies to improve jaw function. This level of care is imposing.
Aside from that, we love that the staff is friendly and always ready to help. This adds to the overall positive experience.
The clinic itself also deserves praise—it’s modern, clean, and has a welcoming vibe. However, the waiting area is a bit small and can sometimes feel crowded.
Thorough, honest, and friendly specialist
“Mo is a fantastic orthodontist – very thorough, honest, clear and friendly. The team at Shakespeare Ortho are all very friendly and professional. Would definitely recommend Shakespeare Ortho to anyone!”
–Jo Kim, Google Reviews
Offers a kind and professional approach to treatment
“Mo is just the most incredible man, deeply kind and so professional! One of the most incredibly caring humans I’ve met! My daughter needed orthodontic treatment and I was little worried but the team at Shakespeare Orthodontics made it a smooth process.We just started with the first important step and in this short duration I am confident that I would get the full support till the end. I would strongly recommend this beautiful team to everyone!”
-Meena Mehr A, Google Reviews
4. Dr. Catherine Porter – Catherine Porter Orthodontist
Address: 8 Saint Vincent Avenue, Remuera
Contact Details: +64 9 522 2767
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 5:15 PM
- Friday – 8 AM to 3 PM
We love that Dr. Porter sends personal, convenient SMS reminders if you have an appointment—we think this is so helpful for busy people like us.
Dr. Porter is a true specialist in orthodontics, and it shows in her knowledge and passion. She explained to us all the different options, from traditional braces to Invisalign, and made sure we understood the pros and cons of each.
When we looked at the before-and-after photos on their website, the results were incredible.
What genuinely impresses us, though, is Dr. Porter’s genuine care for her patients. Many appreciate how she has been so patient and encouraging throughout having braces and giving them helpful tips for managing discomfort during treatment.
We also appreciate their patient resources—there’s lots of information about different treatment options, FAQs, and tips for keeping your teeth healthy.
The office is beautifully decorated and has a very calm and reassuring atmosphere. However, the waiting area is a bit smaller, so it could get crowded sometimes.
Provides outstanding service
“Outstanding. Had a very nervous 11 year old with complex dental needs. Having had a difficult experience at another orthadontist, Catherine’s approach was amazing. My daughter had her braces fixed with no dramas! Highly recommend.”
–Emma Lees, Google Reviews
Shares valuable advice throughout the process
“Catherine has been my orthodontist for 2-3 years now. She and her staff have taken good care of me in that time and given me valuable advice throughout the whole process. I had regular wire braces but she also does invisalign.”
–Gareth Nichols, Google Reviews
5. Dr. Nitin Raniga – Auckland Orthodontics
Address: 6 Exminster Street, Blockhouse Bay
Contact Details: +64 9 627 3555
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
- Friday – 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Dr. Raniga truly understands a smile’s profound impact on confidence, which sets him apart.
What impressed us most was his thoughtful approach to Invisalign. He takes the time to explain the bigger picture. He focuses on straightening teeth and achieving long-term benefits.
Hearing him emphasize how a properly aligned bite can prevent issues like TMJ disorders and other health concerns was reassuring. That level of care and attention to detail truly won us over.
The before-and-after photos were also striking. Seeing him transform a severe overbite into a perfectly aligned bite was nothing short of remarkable.
Adding to the positive experience, the clinic’s comfortable seating and soothing music created a calm and welcoming atmosphere from the moment we walked in.
However, the receptionist’s attitude left something to be desired. It felt slightly off, which dampened the otherwise excellent first impression.
Excellent and thorough service
“Had our first appointment with Dr Raniga. All the staff were lovely and very welcoming. Dr Raniga was excellent with my son and explained everything very clearly. Would recommend!”
–Danielle Ball, Google Reviews
Professional, patient, and informative
“The team are courteous and friendly. Pam called me again and offered my son an appointment when there was an earliest available came up so we don’t have to wait for 2 months. She is very nice and efficient. Dr Raniga is professional, patient and informative. He is a caring and gentle Dr. makes me feel confident about the treatment after the consultation. Dr Raniga gave us a lot of information about before the brace what we have to do and the retainer after brace. I am really looking forward to my son treatment. Hopefully the teeth extractions can be booked as soon as possible.”
–T C, Google Reviews
