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All Treatments81 Ghuznee St, Wellington, New Zealand
Gentle Dental is a locally-owned and operated dental practice group serving the Wellington region since 1992. With four conveniently located practices across Wellington, Lower Hutt, and Upper Hutt, Gentle Dental has established itself as a trusted provider of quality dental care emphasizing a gentle approach and patient comfort. The practices feature a team of highly experienced dentists with over 125 years of combined professional experience.
The philosophy of Gentle Dental centers on delivering dentistry with a careful, compassionate touch. Patients receive gentle service, judgment-free advice, and comprehensive pain relief options to ensure comfort during treatment. The team includes multiple skilled dentists such as Dr. Rehua Smallman, Dr. Fionnuala Cowhie, Dr. Adam Benn, and Dr. Michael Tonkes, supported by experienced oral health therapists. Convenient appointment times including evening hours and Saturday availability ensure accessibility for working professionals and families.
Gentle Dental provides a complete spectrum of dental, hygiene, and orthodontic services:
Gentle Dental operates modern dental facilities across its four locations. Each practice is equipped with contemporary technology to support accurate diagnosis and effective treatment delivery. The clinics are designed to create a comfortable, welcoming environment that helps reduce patient anxiety.
The team's focus on pain relief options means anxious patients have multiple strategies available to ensure comfortable care. Modern restorative materials and techniques allow dentists to create natural-looking, durable restorations that blend seamlessly with existing teeth. Dedicated hygiene facilities support thorough professional cleaning and preventive care.
Gentle Dental's three-decade commitment to the Wellington community, combined with over 125 years of collective dentist experience, provides patients with confidence in quality care. The gentle, judgment-free approach is ideal for anxious or phobic patients who have had negative dental experiences. With four locations across the region, patients can access care conveniently near home or work.
The emphasis on pain relief options, flexible scheduling including evenings and Saturday appointments, and same-day emergency availability makes Gentle Dental uniquely accessible. Whether seeking routine preventive care, emergency treatment, or comprehensive restorative work, patients experience compassionate, skilled care from experienced practitioners.
The team at Gentle Dental prioritizes patient comfort and communication. New patients receive thorough consultations establishing their dental history, concerns, and treatment preferences. Dentists take time to explain findings and options clearly, empowering informed decision-making.
For nervous or anxious patients, the range of pain relief options and gentle approach creates a supportive environment where care can be delivered without fear. The presence of multiple dentists across locations ensures continuity of care and scheduling flexibility. Emergency same-day appointments mean urgent dental pain receives prompt attention.
Gentle Dental operates four strategically located practices across the greater Wellington region on the North Island of New Zealand. Locations include Ghuznee Street, Lambton Quay, Lower Hutt, and Upper Hutt, providing convenient access for residents and workers throughout Wellington and surrounding suburbs. Each location features modern facilities and extended hours including evening and Saturday appointments to serve working professionals and families.
4.2
★ 130 reviews
Paul Wilson
March 2026 · ★ 5
Very gentle and kind staff. Explained everything to my 11 yr old son and helped him feel relaxed.
Clinic response ():
Response from the owner 9 months agoThank you, Paul! We're so pleased to hear that your son felt relaxed and well cared for during his visit. Your kind words mean a lot to us, and we look forward to continuing to provide gentle, compassionate care for your family.
William Bailey
March 2026 · ★ 5
Do u need a tooth removed? Do u need all your teeth removed and replaced? For either job I highly recommend the Gentle Dental Centre. I required all my teeth replaced with dentures with a gap of two years between upper and lower. During this time there was a high rate of decay on the lower teeth . I was sure this would make lining my upper and lower dentures highly improbable. The end result was perfection. I have my smile and confidence back thanks to Sam and his whole team. From Jess on reception saving me at the last minute to Jennie and her team who ran sedation, they were both gentle and professional, to the point I was able to garden the next morning for 4 hours! And of course Lezay and Sam, Lezay was so gentle and understanding and was vital to getting me through the process, a very professional assistant to Sam. Sam, he does magic. His knowledge and use of latest technology was very reassuring. He set me at ease immediately for the big job. Thank you Sam. I highly recommend Gentle Dental Centre for any dental care required. Highly professional and caring Thank to you all at GDC, you have my gratitude for life - Martin
Clinic response ():
Response from the owner 9 months agoMartin, thank you so much for taking the time to share your journey with us in such a heartfelt way. It means the world to our team to know that we could play a part in restoring your smile and confidence. We’re honoured by the trust you placed in us and pleased to hear that every step—from reception to sedation, and right through to treatment—was met with care, professionalism, and compassion. Your words about each team member, and especially Dr. Sam and Lezay, are deeply appreciated and will be shared with pride. From all of us at the Gentle Dental Centre, thank you for your kind recommendation. We're so glad you're smiling again.
Isabel Taylor
March 2026 · ★ 5
Truly the best dentists I have come across in my life. My anxiety was eased the moment I started coming here, as everyone I interacted with were gentle (classic) and non-judgmental (seemingly rare find when it comes to dentists). I had the dreaded wisdom teeth extraction but it was the most straightforward process and healing was a breeze. It was particularly helpful that the procedure was explained in-depth. If you have a fear of dentists and all things teeth-related, this is the best place to come! As another review said, it was because of Gentle Dental that I finally started flossing lol. Highly recommend!
Clinic response ():
Response from the owner 6 months agoThank you so much for this incredible review! We're truly honored to be part of your dental journey and so glad to hear that we've helped ease your anxiety. It means a lot to know you felt supported, informed, and comfortable — especially during something like a wisdom tooth extraction. And we LOVE that you're flossing now!
Q Walker
March 2026 · ★ 5
I've been coming here for a few years - this is the only team who have managed to get me into a daily flossing habit (after decades of feeling bad about myself). They're so kind and encouraging, and transparent about dental procedures and costs. I've seen several different hygienists at this location, and they've all been top notch. The team at Gentle Dental have genuinely improved my life.
Clinic response ():
Response from the owner 6 months agoThank you so much for your kind words and ongoing trust in our care, Q! It truly means the world to us to know we’ve made a positive difference in your dental health and daily habits—especially with something as important (and often tricky!) as flossing. We’re looking forward to seeing you again soon and continuing to take great care of your smile!
Patricia McAloon
March 2026 · ★ 5
I have been under the care of Gentle Dental for a couple of years now, and have been really delighted with all the staff as well as the wonderful dental care, which has been complicated. Olive is an excellent hygienist, and in addition has a wide range of knowledge, being ideal at guiding me through procedures. Sam is an expert, and is great at implementing modern solutions; and the support staff are also really pleasant, helpful, professional, effective and efficient. I really can't speak highly enough about the care I have received. Thank you to all.
Clinic response ():
Response from the owner 6 months agoPatricia, we feel lucky to have a patient like you! It means a lot to know that Olive, Sam, and the entire team have been able to provide you with the care and support you deserve — especially through more complicated treatments. Thank you for this lovely review. We look forward to continuing to care for your smile for many years to come!
Jessica L
March 2026 · ★ 5
Had a fantastic 5-star experience during my filling appointment with Dr. Sam and his assistant, Lezay. The service was prompt, efficient, and even came with a dose of good humor! Highly recommend them for anyone looking for quality dental care.
Clinic response ():
Response from the owner 6 months agoThank you for the great review, Jessica! We’re glad Dr. Sam and Lezay could fill your appointment with excellent care, and a little laughter too.
Lisa Foaese-Washburn
March 2026 · ★ 5
First time here, friendly service from reception to dentist chair. Really cool space with a gaming room as well.
Simon
March 2026 · ★ 5
Thomas and Sheaynee are very competent professionals. Thorough and approachable. Great communicators.
clint packer
March 2026 · ★ 5
I just wanted to take a moment to express my appreciation for the truly impressive culture this team represents. From the warm welcome at the front desk to the exceptional care throughout, every interaction has been great. A special thank you to Dr. William Wallace and Sheaynee Lama for their strategic approach and genuine care during my recent visits. Thank you.
Jeannine McCallum
March 2026 · ★ 5
Absolutely lovely staff, reception, Dentist and assistant. Super kind and helpful and the price was all good too.
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★ 4.2 (130 reviews)
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