Cosmetic dentistry
Dental veneers
A veneer is a thin facing bonded to the front of a tooth to change its shape, colour or alignment. Composite veneers are built up directly in the chair; porcelain veneers are made in a laboratory and usually require some tooth preparation.
- Provided by Dr Shruti Biyani, Principal Dentist
- 3/54 Nullarbor Avenue, Franklin ACT 2913
- HICAPS on-the-spot claiming
How we assess whether it's right for you
- Assessment of gum health, bite, grinding habits and enamel quality
- Photographs, models or a digital mock-up to discuss shape and proportion
- Written plan covering the number of teeth, materials and staging
Suitability is decided after an examination, not from a photograph or a phone description. If a treatment is not right for you, your dentist will say so and set out what else is available.
What the process involves
1. Plan
Design discussion, shade selection and, where useful, a trial mock-up.
2. Prepare
Minimal tooth preparation where required, then a scan or impression.
3. Temporary
Temporary veneers are worn while the laboratory fabricates the final ones (porcelain only).
4. Fit
Veneers are tried in, adjusted and bonded, then the bite is checked.
Risks and limitations
- Preparation for porcelain veneers is usually irreversible — the tooth will always need a covering afterwards.
- Veneers can chip, debond or stain at the margins, and will need repair or replacement over time.
- Sensitivity after preparation is common; occasionally a tooth needs root canal treatment later.
- Grinding and clenching significantly increase the risk of breakage; a night splint is often recommended.
Alternatives to consider
- Whitening and reshaping
- Composite bonding, which is more conservative and repairable
- Orthodontics to correct alignment rather than mask it
- Crowns where a tooth is heavily restored
Any dental procedure carries risks. This page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal advice. Outcomes vary between people, and suitability can only be determined after an examination by a registered dental practitioner.
What affects the cost
- Fees depend on the treatment actually required, and are confirmed in a written plan before treatment begins.
- Veneers are quoted per tooth, with laboratory work included in the written plan.
- Purely cosmetic veneers are generally not rebated by health funds.
See fees and payment options for health funds, CDBS, DVA and payment plans.
Ready when you are
Book online in about a minute, or speak to reception if you would like to ask something first. No obligation to proceed with treatment at the first visit.
- Clinic
- 3/54 Nullarbor Avenue, Franklin ACT 2913
- Phone
- (02) 6274 0404
Before your appointment
What to bring
Your Medicare card, private health fund card, any concession or DVA card, and a list of medicines you take. If you have had recent X-rays elsewhere, bring them or tell us where they were taken.
How long it takes
Appointment length depends on what is found at the examination. Reception gives you an estimated time when you book, and your dentist confirms it once the plan is agreed.
Nervous patients
Tell reception when you book. Your dentist can explain each step before it happens, agree a stop signal with you, and break treatment into shorter visits.
Children and families
Family appointments can often be arranged back to back. Eligible children can be treated under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
Veneers — questions we're often asked
How long do veneers last?
Longevity varies widely with material, bite and habits. Expect maintenance and eventual replacement rather than a permanent result.
Composite or porcelain?
Composite is more conservative, cheaper and repairable; porcelain generally resists staining better and lasts longer. Your dentist will explain which suits your teeth.
Do veneers need special care?
Normal brushing and flossing, avoiding biting hard objects, and a night splint if you grind.
From the blog
Related reading
- Payment and schemesChild Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) at Franklin Bright SmilesWhat the CDBS covers, how eligibility is checked and what happens if the benefit runs out mid-treatment.
- Payment and schemesDepartment of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) dental careHow DVA Gold and White Card arrangements work for dental treatment at the practice.
- Payment and schemesUsing your private health fund at Franklin Bright SmilesHow rebates, annual limits and on-the-spot claiming work, and how to check your cover before treatment.
Book an appointment
Book online at a time that suits you, or call reception on (02) 6274 0404 to talk it through first.