Patient Information · Edgecliff

Treatment Information
Veneers & Crowns

This page helps you understand what cosmetic dental treatments such as veneers and crowns involve — including the risks, recovery and ongoing care — so you can make an informed decision. Porcelain veneers are a higher-risk non-surgical cosmetic procedure under AHPRA guidelines.

Book a Consultation (02) 8054 4331

Dr Pierre Khazin (Dentist) Registered dentist, general registration · AHPRA: DEN0002037290
General information only. All treatments subject to clinical assessment.

Cosmetic dentistry treatment information — Dr Pierre Dentistry Edgecliff

Please read before booking

This is general information only — it is not personal advice. Every mouth is different.

Your individual suitability, risks and alternatives can only be assessed at an in-person consultation.

Not all patients are suitable candidates for these treatments.

All of the treatments described are elective cosmetic procedures. Porcelain veneers are classified as a higher-risk non-surgical cosmetic procedure under AHPRA guidelines.

About the Treatments

What these treatments involve

There are several ways to change the appearance of a tooth. Each differs in how much natural tooth structure is involved and how reversible it is.

Porcelain Veneers

Thin shells bonded to the front surface of a tooth. In most cases a layer of natural enamel is removed to fit the veneer. Because enamel does not grow back, this is generally irreversible — once a tooth is prepared it will usually always need a veneer or crown.

Crowns

Cover the whole tooth and require more substantial reshaping of the natural tooth. This is also irreversible.

Composite Veneers

A tooth-coloured resin applied directly to the tooth, often with little or no enamel removal. Usually more conservative and easier to repair, but may stain, chip or wear sooner than porcelain.

What to Consider

Risks and possible complications

As with any dental treatment, veneers and crowns carry risks. These may include, but are not limited to:

Permanent change to your teeth. Enamel and tooth structure removed for porcelain veneers and crowns cannot be replaced.
Tooth sensitivity, particularly to hot and cold, which is often temporary but can persist.
Nerve irritation. A treated tooth may later require root canal treatment, and rarely, removal.
Chips, cracks, fractures or debonding of a veneer or crown over time.
Staining or discolouration at the margins over time (more common with composite).

Gum irritation, inflammation or recession, which can expose the edges of a restoration.
Changes to your bite and a period of adjustment, which may be uncomfortable.
Aesthetic limitations. Final colour, shape or symmetry may differ from what you expected; shade matching has limits.
Future repair or replacement. Restorations have a finite lifespan and will eventually need maintenance or replacing, at additional cost.
Decay can still develop on or around a treated tooth, and there are risks associated with local anaesthetic where used.

After Treatment

Recovery and aftercare

You may experience sensitivity or tenderness for several days to a few weeks after treatment.
You may wear temporary restorations between appointments, which need to be cared for.
You may need to avoid very hard or sticky foods, initially and sometimes ongoing.
Good oral hygiene is essential, and we will give you specific cleaning advice.
If you grind or clench your teeth, a night guard is often recommended to protect your restorations.
Attending your review appointments is an important part of a good outcome.

Over Time

Longevity and maintenance

Veneers and crowns do not last forever. Their lifespan varies between people and depends on the materials used, your bite, your habits and your oral hygiene.

Over time they may need to be repaired or replaced, which involves further cost. Ongoing regular dental check-ups are required to maintain them.

Suitability

Who may not be suitable

These treatments are not appropriate for everyone. They may not be recommended, or may need other treatment first, if you have:

active tooth decay or gum disease
insufficient enamel or tooth structure
untreated teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
certain bite or alignment issues.

Suitability is assessed individually at consultation.

Other Options

Alternatives to consider

Depending on your situation, alternatives may include teeth whitening, orthodontics (braces or aligners), composite bonding, or choosing no treatment.

We will discuss the options relevant to you at your consultation, including the associated costs, to support your informed decision-making.

Consultation & Consent

Your consultation and consent

An in-person consultation is required before any treatment. At that appointment we assess your suitability and discuss your individual risks, the alternatives, the expected outcome and its limitations, the costs, and the aftercare involved.

You will have the opportunity to ask questions and consider your options before deciding. You are never obliged to proceed.

Book an Appointment

Discuss your options in person

Contact us to arrange a consultation. All treatments begin with a clinical assessment, including a discussion of risks, alternatives and costs.

Book Online (02) 8054 4331

Treatment InformationVeneers & Crowns