Cosmetic Dentistry – Treatment Options and What to Expect
Using one or more basic or advanced cosmetic dentistry techniques such as teeth whitening, composite bonding, porcelain veneers and crowns, and/or orthodontics, our team can help improve the appearance of your teeth, depending on your individual needs and suitability.
For patients exploring cosmetic dentistry in Coburg or considering cosmetic dentistry in Melbourne, understanding the available options is an important first step.
Understanding cosmetic dentistry options
Cosmetic dentistry can involve a range of treatments, from relatively simple procedures through to more involved treatment plans. What is suitable depends on your current oral health, the condition of your teeth, and what you are looking to improve.
Some treatments focus on colour, such as teeth whitening. Others may be used to address the shape, position, or spacing of teeth. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be considered.
Before recommending any treatment, we assess your teeth, gums, and bite to ensure that any cosmetic changes are appropriate in the context of your overall oral health.
When cosmetic treatment may be considered
Cosmetic dental treatment is usually considered when there are concerns about the appearance of teeth, such as discolouration, uneven edges, gaps, or minor alignment issues.
In some cases, patients may also be looking to restore teeth that have worn down or changed over time. The approach taken will depend on the underlying cause, as well as your overall oral health.
It is important to note that not all cosmetic concerns require treatment. In some situations, monitoring or maintaining your current condition may be appropriate. This is discussed during your consultation so you have a clear understanding of your options.
Straighter, whiter teeth – what are your treatment options?
For some patients, all that is required to achieve a whiter smile, is to have a cleaning by one of our dental hygienists. Our team includes 3 hygienists and 3 oral health therapists who are available 6 days a week and after-hours to assist with this.
Teeth whitening is a commonly requested cosmetic procedure that addresses tooth discolouration. We also have an option where you can whiten your teeth at home. Suitability for whitening is assessed during your consultation. We do not recommend over the counter whitening products or products provided by “non-dentists” as we have seen harm done to the gums or ineffective products which are simply a waste of money.
Conventional cosmetic dentistry for more complex cases includes the use of porcelain veneers or ceramic crowns to improve the appearance of misaligned or crooked teeth.
Missing teeth can be replaced with aesthetic partial or full dentures, bridges or implants.
Other cases may involve orthodontic treatment alone or in conjunction with some of these previously mentioned techniques.
Why consider Coburg Dental Group for your smile?
When choosing a dentist to do your smile makeover, you should consider the training and experience of the personnel, the equipment and the materials being used. At Coburg Dental Group, treatment recommendations are based on your oral health, preferences, and suitability, with a focus on clear communication throughout the process.
Dr Jeff Kestenberg completed a Masters’ Degree at the University of Melbourne in prosthodontics and a lot of that course work was devoted to aesthetics in dentistry.
Dr Matthew Siebel completed an extensive orthodontic training program under the highly-respected Prof. Derek Mahoney and worked in a specialist orthodontic clinic prior to coming to Coburg Dental Group.
Dr Christina Jovanovic has completed training courses with renowned dentists in composite bonding techniques.
So, while the Dental Board of Australia does not consider ‘cosmetic dentistry’ a registrable speciality and as such we can’t call ourselves ‘cosmetic dentists’, our team has experience in providing treatments aimed at improving the appearance of teeth.
Dr Conny Qian combines advanced training in cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign, and cosmetic injectables with a gentle and personalised approach to care. Her focus is on helping patients achieve healthy, confident smiles while feeling comfortable throughout their dental journey.
Dr Kevin Liu is committed to providing gentle, high-quality dental care tailored to each patient’s needs and long-term oral health goals. With interests in restorative dentistry and oral surgery, he focuses on creating comfortable experiences and lasting smile outcomes.
Dr Daniel Maydelman is our visiting surgeon with a focus on wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, and advanced surgical care, helping patients feel comfortable and supported throughout their treatment. He is also completing a Masters of Implantology in Germany and has a strong interest in high-aesthetic composite and porcelain dentistry.
What to expect during your cosmetic consultation?
Your consultation will usually begin with a discussion about what you would like to improve, along with any concerns you may have. This is followed by an examination of your teeth, gums, and bite.
If treatment is considered appropriate, we will talk you through the available options, what each involves, and any limitations that may apply. This allows you to decide how you would like to proceed, based on a clear understanding of your options.
Whether you are considering cosmetic dentistry in Coburg or comparing options in Melbourne, this consultation helps you understand what may be suitable in your case.
What does the cosmetic dentistry process usually involve?
While each case is different, the process generally follows a similar structure.
1. Consultation and assessment
We begin by discussing your goals and carrying out an examination of your teeth and gums. This helps determine what options may be suitable and whether any underlying issues need to be addressed first.
2. Planning
Treatment options are outlined based on your individual situation, along with an explanation of what is involved, expected timelines, and any considerations to keep in mind.
3. Preparation (if required)
Some treatments may require preparation of the teeth before they are carried out. This will be explained to you in advance so you know what to expect.
4. Treatment phase
Treatment may be completed in one or more appointments, depending on the procedure and the overall plan. We will guide you through each step along the way.
5. Review and maintenance
Follow-up appointments may be recommended to monitor your oral health and review the treatment over time, along with advice on how to maintain your results.
How different treatments may be combined
In some cases, more than one type of treatment may be required.
For example, teeth may first be aligned using orthodontic treatment before considering whitening or restorative options such as veneers or crowns. In other cases, treatments may be combined to address both function and appearance.
The order of treatment is also important. Certain procedures may need to be completed before others to support an appropriate outcome
This is considered during the planning stage, and the sequence of treatment is discussed with you before proceeding.
What to keep in mind before starting treatment?
Cosmetic dental treatment is often elective, so it is important to take the time to understand what is involved before proceeding.
Some factors to consider include:
- Your current oral health and whether any underlying issues need to be addressed first
- The expected outcomes and any limitations of treatment
- Maintenance requirements over time
- Costs and how treatment may be staged if needed
During your consultation, we will go through these aspects with you so you have a clear understanding and can decide how you would like to proceed.
Can I see what my smile will look like before treatment?
For suitable cases, we can create a temporary mock-up of your new smile directly in your mouth so you can get an idea of how it may look before starting treatment. This allows you to preview your smile and be involved in the smile design process before proceeding. Additional fees may apply for this service.
Previewing Your Treatment Options
In the case of porcelain veneers, ceramic crowns and gum lifts, a mock-up appointment with resin materials allows you to visualise and discuss your options with your dentist before treatment.
A separate ‘dress rehearsal’ appointment at our Melbourne dental clinic can also help in planning your treatment approach.
Looking after your smile after treatment
Maintaining your results is an important part of cosmetic dental care. This may include:
- Regular dental check-ups and cleans
- Consistent brushing and flossing
- Using recommended products where appropriate
- Avoiding habits that may affect your teeth over time
We will guide you on how to care for your teeth based on the treatment you receive.
How long do the results last?
The longevity of cosmetic dental treatments can vary depending on the type of treatment, your oral hygiene, and lifestyle factors such as diet or grinding habits.
For example, teeth whitening results may fade over time, while restorations like veneers or crowns may last for several years with appropriate care.
During your consultation, we can provide general guidance based on your individual situation.
I want a better smile, so where do I start?
In summary, smile enhancement can involve a range of techniques. It may be simple or complex. That is why we suggest that you book an appointment for an assessment and treatment planning appointment to discuss your wishes. Call us on 03 9386 1805 to make an appointment.
Book a Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation
For porcelain veneers, ceramic crowns and teeth whitening, or to find out more about your options, call Coburg Dental Group on 03 9386 1805
If you are looking into cosmetic dentistry in Coburg or exploring cosmetic dentistry in Melbourne, you can schedule an appointment to discuss your options with our team.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
You can schedule your appointment with us to discuss your options with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not all treatments are suitable for every patient. This depends on your oral health, the condition of your teeth, and what you are trying to improve. A consultation allows us to assess your suitability and discuss appropriate options.
Treatment is planned to suit your existing teeth and facial features. The aim is to achieve a balanced result that works with your overall smile. Outcomes can vary depending on the starting point.
This depends on the type of treatment. Some procedures, such as teeth whitening, can be completed in a short time. Others, including veneers or orthodontic treatment, may take longer and involve multiple appointments.
All dental procedures carry risks. These will be discussed with you before proceeding so you understand what is involved.
Costs vary depending on the treatment and the complexity of the case. We will outline fees during your consultation so you know what to expect before proceeding.
Maintenance is required to help keep your results. This includes regular check-ups, professional cleans, and good oral hygiene at home. Specific advice will be provided based on your treatment.
Teeth whitening does not change the colour of existing restorations such as fillings, crowns, or veneers. This is taken into account when planning treatment.
In many cases, general dental treatment is completed before cosmetic procedures are considered. This helps ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy before proceeding.
This depends on the type of treatment. Some procedures require little to no downtime, while others may involve a short adjustment period.
Yes, in some cases treatment can be planned in stages. This depends on the type of procedures involved and your individual preferences.
In some cases, previews such as digital simulations or mock-ups may be used to give an indication of possible outcomes. These are guides only and may not represent final results.
In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used to address concerns such as colour, alignment, and shape. This is discussed during the planning stage.