Ilam Dental Centre

110 Memorial Ave, 8053, Christchurch

Welcome to **Ilam Dental Centre**, a second-generation, family-owned practice located in Burnside, Christchurch, where we combine gentle, compassionate care with high-quality, affordable dentistry. Our team is dedicated to making your dental experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible, offering a comprehensive range of services from routine check-ups and preventive care to complex restorative procedures. We pride ourselves on providing **gentle dental care** tailored to individual needs, ensuring that every patient feels welcome and well-cared-for.

Our experienced team of dental surgeons, led by Dr. John Malcolm and including distinguished practitioners like Dr. Ren Henkel and Dr. Kalo Malthus, brings decades of combined expertise from the University of Otago to our clinic. We offer a full spectrum of dental treatments, including **dental implants**, **ceramic crowns**, **bridges**, and advanced **cosmetic dentistry** options such as laser treatments and professional whitening. For those requiring surgical interventions, we specialize in the **surgical removal of wisdom teeth** with precision and care. Whether you need emergency dental attention, routine cleanings, or a comprehensive treatment plan, we are equipped to handle it all with the highest standards of clinical excellence.

At Ilam Dental Centre, we believe that oral health is integral to your overall well-being. We are committed to educating and motivating our patients to take control of their dental hygiene, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease through proper brushing, flossing, and balanced nutrition. We welcome new patients, including those experiencing toothaches, and offer **subsidized dental schemes** for eligible University of Canterbury students through vouchers issued by the UCSA. Located conveniently at 110 Memorial Avenue with onsite parking, we are easily accessible for both locals and visitors. Book your appointment today to experience friendly, professional dental care that keeps your smile healthy and bright for years to come.

Opening hours

  • sunday: (closed)
  • monday: 8:30-17h
  • tuesday: 8:30-18h
  • wednesday: 8:30-17h
  • thursday: 8:30-18h
  • friday: 8:30-17h
  • saturday: (closed)

Our comment from Best Dentists Club about Ilam Dental Centre:

Compassionate Care for Anxious Patients

Patients consistently highlight the clinic's exceptional ability to make them feel safe, welcome, and relaxed, even those with severe dental anxiety. The team is praised for their kindness, patience, and thorough explanations, turning what is often a stressful experience into a positive one. Many reviews mention that the dentists take the time to listen to concerns and talk patients through every step, ensuring they feel in control and understood rather than just treated as a number.

A Highly Skilled and Friendly Team

The dentists and assistants at Ilam Dental Centre are frequently described as professional, efficient, and genuinely caring. Specific practitioners are named by patients for their expertise and gentle approach, including Dr. Arlia, Dr. John, Dr. Saion, Dr. Kalo, Dr. Ren, and Dr. Bertie. Whether performing complex procedures or simple check-ups, the staff is noted for their skill and ability to minimize discomfort. The reception team is also commended for being friendly, helpful, and efficient, often securing quick appointments and providing excellent administrative support.

Comprehensive Dental Services

Ilam Dental Centre offers a wide range of treatments to meet diverse oral health needs. Patients have successfully received care for general dentistry, including exams, cleanings, and fillings. More complex procedures such as wisdom teeth extractions, root canals, and front tooth reconstruction are also handled with high standards. The clinic provides restorative options like crowns, bridges, and nightguards, as well as cosmetic enhancements to improve smiles. Their commitment to thoroughness ensures that issues are diagnosed accurately and addressed effectively.

Transparent Pricing and Accessibility

The clinic is appreciated for offering affordable dentistry without compromising on quality. Patients frequently mention that the cost is significantly lower than expected, providing excellent value for money. The transparent approach to pricing and the willingness to work within reasonable budgets make it accessible for many. Additionally, the clinic is accommodating for busy schedules, often offering same-day appointments for urgent care or fitting in patients outside standard hours when possible.

  • Specialists in gentle care for anxious and nervous patients.
  • Highly rated dentists including Dr. Arlia, Dr. John, Dr. Saion, Dr. Kalo, and Dr. Ren.
  • Comprehensive services from general check-ups to extractions and restorations.
  • Affordable pricing and excellent value for money.
  • Friendly and professional reception and support staff.

Services and Treatments

CT Scan and Dental X-ray

Ilam Dental Centre: Reviews

4.6/5 (54 Reviews)

Reviews are the opinions of their authors. We do not verify that the author was a customer.

Reviews on Google

4,6 out of 5 from 54 reviews

Sandra Anderson Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Cannot praise Arlia's treatment highly enough. Went in with tea stained teeth, chipped front tooth, mismatched crown. Came out with a very balanced, clean brighter, repaired smile. Am so happy. And the cost was about 1/3 that I expected. As well, enlightening chat between dentist and assistant extended my brain. An excellent experience, top quality, value way beyond the cost. 6 stars out of 5. Dont hesitate to go to Arlia Schurr for your treatment.

Pania Tamara Taylor Published on Google

Fantastic experience: I had all my teeth removed monday I was absolutely terrified I was a nervous wreck John an his assistant were fantastic I would recommend this dentist to anyone thank you so much. Nga mihi. Pania

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Pania thanks for taking the time to review us.
You did so well!
John

Kaitlyn Carroll Published on Google

Fantastic experience: This dental center by far have the best staff both in reception and the dentists themselves! I've gotten used to being dismissed and moved along, but Dr. Bertie took the time to explain what was happening and the process of everything which was so refreshing! Thanks to a speedy receptionist - Tui, I had an appointment booked the next day. Dr. John and his assistant then dealt with me whilst I was an anxious mess in the best way possible. Overall, I've never felt so safe and welcomed - thanks team!!

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Kaitlyn thank you for taking the time to share this review. Glad to hear you felt valued and cared for.

Matthew Thomas Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Highly recommended ilam dental I had a great experience with Saion. From the moment I arrived, he made me feel comfortable and at ease. He was very caring and took the time to thoroughly explain everything before starting the procedure, which really helped calm my nerves. His empathy and attentiveness were clear throughout the visit, and I truly appreciated how he prioritized my comfort. I highly recommend Dr. Saion for anyone looking for a dentist who genuinely cares about their patients!

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

HI Matthew, great to hear about your experience. Thanks for the review.

Eddie Yao Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Good service

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks Eddie

Victoria Ding Published on Google

Fantastic experience: I started going to Ilam Dental due to the UCSA subsidy partnership. Nothing short of fantastic! Photos of the teeth are taken so that they can keep track of how your teeth have been. They are also used to cleary explain to you what is going on. Saion deeply cares about getting to the bottom of what’s causing problems and then preventing cavities from forming in the future which is awesome.

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Hi Vitoria, thanks for taking the time to post. Great to hear of your experience.

Dianne Parry Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Great service. Would highly recommend. 2024 update: still highly recommend

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks Dianne

Dempsey Rose-Day Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Highly recommend Saion, he explained things very well in a kind manner and was amazingly quick. I was expecting multiple appointments for cleaning, retainer re-bonding and covering of an early cavity but he carried everything out in just 30 minutes. Simply awesome

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Hi Dempsey. Great to here of your experience. Thanks for taking time to review.

julie clark Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Very friendly and great service

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks Julie.

Corey Blaasch Published on Google

Fantastic experience: If you want a dentist that makes you feel welcome and relaxed, is highly experienced and want the best treatment, Ilam Dental is for you. I have been a patient for a few years now and have been meaning to put a review up for some time as I believe excellence should be acknowledged. From fillings to wisdom teeth extraction and front teeth reconstruction, every appointment has wowed me. The professionalism shown is second to none. A+ for service, pricing, being seen at your appointment time (important for everyone these days) and everything in between. Thank you so much Ilam Dental for making me feel confident in myself again to smile. Kalo, you’re a star!

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Hey Corey, thanks so much for taking the time to review us.
Kalo is a star!

Georgia Humm Published on Google

Fantastic experience: I recently had all four wisdom teeth removed at Ilam Dental, and I must say, the experience was seamless. Saion and Dan did an excellent job of making me feel comfortable and at ease despite my nerves. The reception staff were also warm and inviting, adding to the overall positive experience. Highly recommend!

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Hey Georgia, glad to hear of your experience. Thanks for sharing.

Cynthia Webb Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Warm receptionists and lovely team. Saion was wonderful! Have had bad experiences in the past with rude dentists but Saion explained the issues with my teeth in a very kind way. Very informative. And great to have an online booking system.

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks Cynthia! Saion’s been a great addition to our team.

Elias Redpath Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Best dentistry experience I have ever had. Amazing team of professionals across the whole business. I needed a large amount of work done after not going to a dentist for years due to anxiety and negative previous experiences. Saion was so caring and attentive I felt really safe and in good hands the whole time. He has exceptional after care in following up after a difficult wisdom tooth extraction, going above and beyond what I expected. Big shout out to Bridget the DA whose kind & friendly nature helped me keep calm and made me feel seen as a person, not just a patient. Highly recommend this Dentistry Practice for anyone who is nervous or anxious about going to the dentist!

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks for the review Elias. Glad this wisdom teeth are all sorted.

Sam Shankland Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Saion and Bridget are awesome!

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks for the review Sam

Hannah Anderson Published on Google

Fantastic experience: I was quite nervous about my lengthy appointment. Saion and Bridget were both incredibly professional and kind. They made me feel at ease and performed an amazing job on my teeth. I highly recommended Saion and Bridget and Ilam Dental. Thank you Hannah

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Hi Hannah, thanks for taking the time to give us a review. Glad to hear your experience was so positive. We love having Saion and Bridget as part of the team.

Micah Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Saion and Bridget were both brilliant and helped me feel at ease. I was pretty nervous and the treatment wasn't fun, but I appreciated the thoroughness and compassion. I had no idea I had so many issues so it was good to have them identified now and addressed. Grateful to have had such good care and will be back. The reception staff are really great too. Thank you. Micah

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Hi Micah, thanks for the review. Glad to hear you feel more at ease now.

Thomas Wallace Published on Google

Fantastic experience: The dental clinic was above and beyond my expectations. The staff was friendly and professional, and more than happy to answer questions. The clinic's building and facilities were modern, creating a comfortable environment. Overall, a top-notch experience that left me feeling good about the checkup I received and the clinic itself, 10/10 would recommend

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Hi Thomas, thanks so much for taking the time to review us. Glad to hear your experience was so positive. Regards
John

Heather Escort Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Gave me a gold tooth, I feel like a pirate now! Arrrr me hearty!

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks for the review Heather, hope your new ship and crew are fantastic!

Georgie Anderson Brooks Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Saion and Bridget were nothing but kind and professional with me and I felt as comfortable as possible for a dental appointment. Feel very grateful for their amazing service and support

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Hi Georgie, Thanks for the review. Glad you felt so confident with our teams service.

Nirendra Chand Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Wow very nice staffs with lots smile and great job done without any pain to me. I recommend them very highly

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks for taking the time to review us Nirendra. So glad to here of your experience!

James Hamilton Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Thanks John and team for your fantastic service and expertise

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks James

Jessie Mills Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Booked in because of a toothache and was so happy with the service. Really informative, kind and communicative and very well-priced as well.

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks for the review Jessie, Kalo's a great dentist

Haneesh Bidani Published on Google

Fantastic experience: I had tooth refilling done by Dr Kalo. She is amazing. Made me comfortable throughout the process.

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks Haneesh. Kalo's a great dentist. Glad you felt comformtable.

Haven Tattoo Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Absolute amazing care and service. John went above and beyond in my dental experience. Thank you.

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks @Haven Tattoo!

Becca Keoghan Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Kiani and John made sure I was comfortable the whole time being 8 months pregnant & were super accommodating to get me in for the work I had been putting off before the baby arrives. I can't recommend enough :)

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks Becca!

Milly Vaifale Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Absolutely love Ilam dental, I’m a very anxious patient & they are always so kind & caring. Very general & make sure I am always as comfortable as I can be. All staff are very friendly from the receptionists to the dentists. Cannot fault at all & the price is very reasonable. Highly recommend Ilam Dental.

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks for taking the time to review us! So glad to hear your experience was so good.
John

M R Published on Google

Fantastic experience: I highly recommend it! Thanks, John!

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thank you. It was lovely meeting you today!

Manfred Ingerfeld Published on Google

Fantastic experience: I have been going to the Ilam Dental Center for a very long time. John is super professional. Where some might see a difficult problem, he sees an an interesting challenge. From diagnosis to final result, all goes smoothly, efficiently and with a very satisfactory outcome.

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks Manfred, its great to hear that your experience of us is so positive!
Appreciate you taking the time to leave this.

Bronnie Etchells Published on Google

Fantastic experience: I personally recommend Kalo Malthus as a fantastic dentist. Professional, friendly, efficient, understanding, great communication, awesome value for money. Couldn’t ask for a better experience. The reception staff are super helpful and friendly, the anxiety from visiting the dentist was hugely reduced

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Hi Bronnie, Great to hear of your experience and was so positive!
Thanks for the review!

John Dierckx Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Great service and great results. They are so friendly and really tried the bet they could to work in with my unhandy work schedule. Quick to respond to questions, handy phone reminders and top notch caring and highly professional work and staff with above expected result! I would say, I'd go there as often as I can but that's not how it works with a dentist. But if you have a dentistry need, this is the place I recommend highly!

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Hey John Thanks so much for taking the time to review us. Great to hear your experience. Especially for our reception team!

A Z Published on Google

Negative experience: Bad service and waste of money

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

We don't seem to have treated anyone with your name in years ... a bit puzzled

Andrea Hunt Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Fantastic, helpful and friendly service. They went out of their way to fit me in on the same day because I live in a rural area. Top dentistry, caring and professional.

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Hi Andrea. Thanks for taking the time to share your experience. Happy to be able to help you. Regards John

Gina Howorth Published on Google

Fantastic experience: This week I had a tooth crowned. I felt safe and confident because John talked me through what was happening, and was really aware of my needs and concerns. Very thoughtful - and I didn't even feel the injection at the beginning! Excellent service.

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks Gina, we appreciate your feedback

Christina Lorimer Published on Google

Fantastic experience: I’m 50 & hadn’t been to a dentist for a few years - mostly because I’d had no issues & also a nervous patient. But I decided to go get a check. I’m so glad I did! Both the receptionist and dentist (John) were most professional and kind. Would highly recommend.

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks for your feedback Christina
Great to have you as a patient
-John

Sofia Nygren Published on Google

Negative experience: Useless at communication. Never got back to me about anything. Complete waste of money.

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Hi Sofia so sorry to hear about your experience. I’ve looked into it and our practice manager was away on personal leave at that time. The person covering her role failed to get hold of you. Our practice manager will give you a call ASAP to see if we can help.
Sorry again
John

Matthew Xu Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Very nice down to earth and honest place

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks Matthew, great to hear

Smokedsav 91 Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Had my wisdom tooth removed here as it was giving me grief. Was really nervous but the dentist was so nice and put my mind at ease. I didn't even know my tooth had been removed, super quick and pain free!

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Hi @Smokedsav91 - Happy to hear that was your experience at IDC . Regards John

Kirsty Thomas Published on Google

Fantastic experience: I would highly recommend this dentist!! I went at the end of the day, on a public holiday during the lockdown - The staff were so kind and the dentist took his time to make sure I was taken care of. They were careful, considerate and efficient. I couldnt speak higher of this dental practice!! I have had extractions from other dentists and paid ALOT more money, but this has been by far the best experience- as far as dental visits go!!

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Kirsty, somehow I missed your review! Thanks for taking the time to do so. So glad there aren't lockdowns anymore.

Matt Robinson Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Friendly staff. The dentist Ren is the man. Great guy and very good skills..

Sophie Gough Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Highly recommend coming to this dental practice! Friendly staff, great service. This practice is perfect for anyone, particularly if you're anxious at the dentist or wanting quality dentistry for a reasonable price.

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks Sophie - glad you enjoyed your visit

Jane Wang Published on Google

Negative experience: Update - seen another dental specialist, been told the same comment on how the root canal was of not acceptable quality and needs to redo the root canal again, means a waste of money & don't know if my tooth is till ok to proceed further. Worse experience ever. I had a root canal done just over a year and now this tooth has a major crack of both the tooth and filing. It is now causing much pain in the gum because of the crack pieces moves when biting. Another dentist sadly informed me after the check up that what was being done was not of the standard quality which the tooth was not solid enough which caused the crack after biting and it is possible that this tooth may now need to be taken out.

Anna Glass Published on Google

Fantastic experience: I have been terrified about getting my wisdom tooth out for such a long time, when I finally had to do something about it I was lucky to be given an appt promptly at Ilam Dental. My dentist was extremely patient with me, listened to me, and talked me through what he was doing. I didn’t believe him when he said it was all done, I had felt nothing, the procedure was so efficient and fast. Very grateful and still a little surprised that it was that easy!!!

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Thanks Anna

RichardLinda Vanderpyl Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Have been a long term client with the whole family. We have enjoyed great service and high quality work. Highly recommend.

Pushya Thomas Published on Google

Negative experience: To get a simple nightguard for 2 visits,have to visit 5 times..1st one i got was tearing off after 1 month.2nd one made was so loose falling off.The 3rd one i finally got not tight and doesnt serve the purpose.i am over it.i lost 300 $ for nothing .not recommended.please save ur money and time

Ilam Dental Centre
Ilam Dental Centre

Hi Pushya I have reviewed your records and discussed with the Dentist involved. I am very happy to see you and review your nightguard at no cost.
However I would like to note your first guard was made too thin at your insistence because you stated “that’s the way they were made in your birth country” - this was against the dentists advice who clearly outlined this would be ineffective.
This was then remade at no cost to you, in accordance with NZ dental standards, and we have received no further contact from you.
As stated I am very happy to look at this if there are still concerns.
Look forwar to hearing from you.
Regards John, IDC

Pat McMahon Published on Google

Fantastic experience: Great friendly professional service. Recommended.

Leave your review about Ilam Dental Centre:

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Reviews are checked before they are published. We do not publish reviews containing insults, accusations of criminal conduct or references to specific individuals. We also do not verify that the author was a customer.

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