The Dental Council established an orthodontic working group to ensure orthodontic patients in New Zealand receive safe and appropriate treatment.

The working group report of October 2016 found no evidence of widespread harm or risk to patients, but recommended one way to improve the delivery of orthodontic services would be to provide patient focused information. 

If you are considering orthodontic treatment these resources have been developed to help you understand your options

Direct-to-consumer orthodontics

Remote or DIY orthodontic products and services are now available on the New Zealand market. Typically, these involve a patient taking or providing their own impressions and receiving clear teeth aligners in the mail. 

Consumers should be wary of the safety risks if there is limited or no contact with an oral health practitioner registered in New Zealand when undertaking such remote treatment.

Standards framework for oral health practitioners

All oral health practitioners are responsible for meeting their legal and professional obligations, set out in the standards framework. Patients and the public can read the ethical principles, professional and practice standards expected from practitioners. 

DCNZ Standards Framework wheel website