02 8188 4520
02 8188 4520
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Dr. Caroline Downing
2/2 Kochia Ln, Lindfield NSW 2070
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Crowns & Veneers
Free Smile Assessment* ($250 value)
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Crowns and Veneers

A bright smile is a strong communication symbol and creates a great first impression. A fundamental difference between veneers and crowns is how much of the tooth they cover over. Veneers only cover over the front surface of a tooth (the side that shows when the person smiles). A crown however, encases the entire tooth.

There are two major types of dental veneer procedure that we provide to our patients. Book an appointment with one of dentists for consultation on best treatment alternative for your condition.

Porcelain Veneers

These types of veneers use a thin, strong and durable aesthetic substance. If well maintained, porcelain veneers can last up to 25 years. The main advantage of this alternative is that it ensures strong bondage between the veneer and teeth and requires no drilling of teeth. It results to bright and natural looking teeth.

Composite Veneers

These are an alternative to porcelain veneers built directly in your mouth. This alternative however uses relatively cheaper material as compared to porcelain veneer. Dental crowns and tooth coloured filling materials may be used in this alternative. It requires regular dental revisits and replacements.

Dental Crowns

A crown almost, if not entirely, replaces the enamel “cap” of a tooth. The term “cap” is used synonymously with crown. A crown replaces the entire external form of a tooth, down to the gum level.

Whatever inner core of tooth remains, “crowning” a tooth re-establishes its natural form, as well as its function in how it contacts other teeth. Replacing large amounts of tooth structure is part of crown design. Crowning teeth can also dramatically help patients whose teeth have been worn by bruxism (grinding habits) or by enamel erosion.

Like veneers, crowns are also excellent for changing tooth color and shape; in some cases they can facilitate this change more easily. Porcelain crowns are generally necessary when more tooth structure has been lost and therefore more material is needed to replace it. Conversely, if more tooth structure needs to be lightened (because of deeper staining) and/or strengthened, a crown will serve as the restoration of choice. For back teeth that receive greater biting force, newer and stronger “all-ceramic” crowns may be a better alternative.

Contact us to learn more and get help deciding what the best course of action is for your smile!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why not a crown?

A crown or cap goes over the whole tooth and the tooth must be reduced in size adequately so the crown has enough thickness and the correct internal shape. Although crowns can be bonded to the tooth they rely on the internal shape for their retentiveness. Veneers stay in place due to the very strong bond between tooth and porcelain. Much less tooth is removed for veneers.

Do porcelain veneers look natural?

Porcelain veneers can look exactly like enamel. Porcelain reflects light in the same way as enamel. You can choose the colour of your veneer from ultra-Hollywood white to fresh and natural perfection.

Some crowns have a dark edge. Does this happen with veneers?

Because of the perfect finish line of veneers and the smoothness of the porcelain, gums love veneers. There is no black line with correctly fitted porcelain veneers. As we age some peoples gums recede, if this happens with veneers it looks no different to your natural teeth.

How long do veneers last?

Porcelain lasts longer than composite. When you consider that anything we put into your mouth sits in an environment which cycles in temperature and PH, is stressed and bathed with bacteria we achieve remarkable results. One of my patients even eats crab claws on his veneers! (not recommended). In many circumstances veneers can last over 20 years.

Should I choose composite bonding or porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers are usually favourable because they are resistant to discolouration. They are also about 5 times stronger the composite veneers

What are the advantages of dental veneers?

Veneers can be a great, reasonably quick treatment solution for discoloured, crooked, widely spaced or worn-down teeth

Who is a good candidate for porcelain veneers?

Dental veneers like anything require good care and good foundation. Your natural teeth need to be in good condition for the veneer to have a lasting result

Can composite resin veneers be fixed if they get chipped or broken?

Porcelain veneers are usually favourable because they are resistant to discolouration. They are also about 5 times stronger the composite veneers

Ask Dr. Downing call 02 8188 4520
Dr. Caroline Downing

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Excellent dental care for all members of our family and lots of proactive advice, strongly recommend mdt

Patina M.

ENJOYABLE!!! – and that’s an amazing thing to say of a dental appointment

Ken B.

Painless and Dr Caroline always explains things so it’s easy to understand

Alicia D.

ASK DR. DOWNING call her office at 02 8188 4520 or send a message.