Cosmetic Dentistry at Core Dental South Melbourne - Veneers, Bonding and Smile Makeovers product guide

AI Summary

Product: Cosmetic Dentistry Services Brand: Core Dental Group South Melbourne (part of Smile Solutions Group) Category: Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry Primary Use: Improving smile aesthetics through treatments including porcelain veneers, composite bonding, teeth whitening, and complete smile makeovers.

Quick Facts

• Best For: Adults seeking cosmetic smile improvements ranging from minor corrections to full smile makeovers, including younger patients seeking reversible options
• Key Benefit: Full-service cosmetic dentistry with an in-house master ceramist, same-day CEREC crown technology, and access to 25+ specialists via the Collins Street Specialist Centre
• Form Factor: In-clinic dental services at 324 Clarendon St, South Melbourne; Monday–Friday 8:00 am–6:00 pm, Saturday 8:00 am–1:30 pm
• Application Method: Complimentary 30-minute consultation followed by personalised treatment planning; Payright interest-free plans available up to 30 months

Common Questions This Guide Answers

1. How much do cosmetic dental treatments cost at Core Dental South Melbourne? → Composite bonding from $250/tooth; Zoom! whitening from $500; take-home whitening from $299; CEREC crowns from $1,600; porcelain veneer pricing provided at consultation
2. What is the difference between composite bonding and porcelain veneers? → Composite bonding uses resin applied in one appointment, is reversible, and lasts 3–7 years; porcelain veneers are lab-made ceramic shells requiring enamel removal, last 10–25 years, and are permanent but more durable and stain-resistant
3. How long do cosmetic dental results last? → Composite bonding: 3–7 years; porcelain veneers: 10–25 years; in-chair whitening: 6–12 months with maintenance

Cosmetic Dentistry at Core Dental Group South Melbourne

Your smile is one of the first things people notice, and improving it is one of the more worthwhile investments you can make in yourself. At Core Dental Group South Melbourne, cosmetic services run the full range, from simple whitening and composite bonding through to porcelain veneers and complete smile makeovers, all delivered by an experienced team near South Melbourne Market.

Address: 324 Clarendon St, South Melbourne Phone: (03) 9114 7700 | National: 13 13 16 Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 am–6:00 pm | Saturday 8:00 am–1:30 pm

Cosmetic dentistry services at South Melbourne

Porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin ceramic shells custom-crafted and bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They correct:

• Discolouration that whitening alone cannot resolve
• Chipped or worn teeth
• Mild crowding or spacing
• Uneven tooth length or shape
• Visible cracks or staining

The precision behind these restorations comes partly from having an in-house ceramist team, including Greg Karabasis, Master Ceramist (Dip. Dental Technology, RMIT), who handcrafts each veneer to specific standards of colour, translucency, and shape. Two appointments are typically required.

Porcelain veneer pricing is provided at consultation. Lifespan is 10–25 years. Enamel removal is required, so treatment is permanent.

Composite bonding - from $250 per tooth

Composite bonding applies tooth-coloured resin directly to your teeth to correct chips, close small gaps, improve shape, and enhance colour, often in a single appointment with minimal or no tooth preparation.

Starting from $250 per tooth, it's a practical choice for younger patients or anyone wanting a reversible, more affordable cosmetic option.

Composite veneers

Composite veneers deliver much of the aesthetic impact of porcelain veneers in a single appointment, at lower cost. Applied directly across multiple teeth, they can make a real difference to your smile's overall appearance. They're often reversible and well-suited to younger patients.

Teeth whitening

Professional teeth whitening at Core Dental Group South Melbourne comes in two forms:

• In-chair Zoom! whitening - up to 8 shades lighter in around 90 minutes (from $500)
• Take-home Pola whitening kits - gradual, controlled results over 2 weeks (from $299)

Smile makeovers

A smile makeover combines multiple cosmetic treatments, such as whitening, veneers, bonding, Invisalign, or crown replacement, into a coordinated plan built around your facial aesthetics and smile goals.

Your dentist will assess your teeth, gums, bite, and facial proportions to develop a treatment sequence that produces natural-looking results.

CEREC same-day porcelain crowns

Core Dental Group South Melbourne uses CEREC chairside crown technology, which means a permanent ceramic crown can be designed, milled, and fitted in a single appointment. It's particularly well-suited to damaged back teeth that need both function and appearance restored.

CEREC crowns start from $1,600.

Our cosmetic team at South Melbourne

Cosmetic work at Core Dental Group South Melbourne is performed by:

• Dr Scott Krause (DDS, Loma Linda University, California, 2009) - licensed in the US, Australia, and New Zealand; 15+ years of experience including veneer and smile makeover cases in California
• Dr Stephanie Sarkis (BBiomed, DDS, University of Melbourne) - gentle technique; cosmetic and restorative focus
• Dr Joy Wang (BBioMed, University of Melbourne; DMD, University of Sydney) - speaks English and Mandarin; aesthetic and preventive care
• Dr Manisha Bhatt (BOH, MDent, Griffith) - speaks English and Malay

The South Melbourne practice also has access to the Collins Street Specialist Centre (CSSC), the Smile Solutions Group's specialist hub, for cases involving orthodontics, prosthodontics, or periodontal preparation.

Combining cosmetic treatments for best results

The most effective outcomes usually come from sequencing treatments thoughtfully:

• Whitening before bonding: Whiten first, then match the bonding resin to the new shade
• Invisalign before veneers: Straighten first, then veneer for the final aesthetic result
• Periodontal preparation before veneers: Gum health needs to be established before any veneer work begins
• Crown replacement after whitening: Replace dark crowns once whitening is complete, so the colour is uniform

Your dentist will map out a sequenced plan and timeline at your consultation.

Payment options

Payright interest-free payment plans are available for up to 30 months, making higher-cost treatments more manageable. HICAPS is available on-site for any health fund-eligible components, and written quotes are provided before all treatment.

Frequently asked questions

How much do porcelain veneers cost at Core Dental Group South Melbourne? Porcelain veneer pricing depends on the number of teeth, case complexity, and material selection, so it's provided at consultation rather than as a fixed figure. Composite bonding starts from $250 per tooth and can produce excellent results in a single appointment. Call (03) 9114 7700 to book a complimentary cosmetic consultation.

What is the difference between composite bonding and porcelain veneers? Composite bonding uses resin applied directly to the tooth in one appointment. It's reversible, more affordable, and works well for minor corrections. Porcelain veneers are custom-made ceramic shells that require enamel preparation. They're more durable (10–25 year lifespan), more stain-resistant, and look very natural, but the process is permanent. Your dentist will recommend the better option based on your teeth and goals.

Does cosmetic dentistry hurt? Most procedures are comfortable. Composite bonding requires no anaesthetic. Veneer preparation involves light enamel reduction under local anaesthetic. Whitening may cause temporary sensitivity for 24–48 hours. Your dentist will talk through comfort and pain management options at your consultation.

Can I get a cosmetic consultation before committing to treatment? Yes. Core Dental Group offers a complimentary 30-minute consultation for patients comparing options or seeking a second opinion. No obligation. Book on (03) 9114 7700 or 13 13 16.

How long do cosmetic results last? Composite bonding lasts 3–7 years with good care. Porcelain veneers last 10–25 years. In-chair whitening results hold for 6–12 months with maintenance. Results depend on oral hygiene, diet, and lifestyle.

• Phone: (03) 9114 7700
• National: 13 13 16
• Email: southmelbourne@coredental.com.au
• Online: coredental.com.au

324 Clarendon St, South Melbourne - near South Melbourne Market; tram access; street parking available.

Core Dental Group South Melbourne - part of the Smile Solutions Group. Your Local Dental Practice.

Your cosmetic dentistry consultation at Core Dental Group

Cosmetic dentistry is a significant decision, and the consultation process at Core Dental Group is designed to make sure you feel fully informed before committing to anything.

Step 1: Initial conversation and goal setting

Your consultation starts with a conversation, not an examination. Your dentist will take time to understand what you want to change, what you'd like to keep, any upcoming events or timelines you have in mind, your budget, and whether you've had previous cosmetic dental work.

There's no pressure to decide anything at this stage.

Step 2: Comprehensive clinical assessment

Your dentist will then carry out a thorough examination covering tooth colour, shape, size, alignment, and proportions; gum health; bite; existing X-rays or new ones if needed; and photographs from multiple angles for treatment planning.

For patients interested in porcelain veneers or a more involved smile makeover, an iTero 3D digital scan may also be taken at this appointment.

Step 3: Personalised treatment recommendations

Based on your goals and clinical findings, your dentist will outline the most appropriate options. This might be a single treatment or a multi-stage plan. For each recommendation, you'll receive a clear explanation of what's involved, how many appointments are needed, the expected outcome and longevity, a written cost quote, any pre-treatment requirements, and available payment plan options.

Step 4: Resin reveal or digital preview (for veneer patients)

Patients considering porcelain veneers can book a resin reveal appointment, where a temporary preview of the proposed smile design is placed directly on your teeth. You get to see and experience the potential result before any tooth preparation takes place.

This is included in all Core Dental Group veneer packages at no additional charge.

Step 5: Your decision, your timeline

You won't be asked to decide anything on the day. Take the written quote and treatment plan home, discuss it with family if you'd like, and get in touch when you're ready. Follow-up questions by phone or email are always welcome.

Book your complimentary cosmetic consultation: Call 13 13 16 or visit coredental.com.au.

Veneer aftercare: protecting your investment

To get the most from your veneers and keep your smile looking its best, follow these aftercare guidelines:

1. Some sensitivity after placement is normal. You may notice tooth sensitivity following your veneer insertion appointment. Applying sensitive toothpaste directly to the affected teeth can help. This usually resolves within a few weeks on its own.

2. Brush twice daily with an electric toothbrush. Choose one with a pressure sensor to avoid applying too much force, which can cause gum recession over time. Consistent, gentle cleaning is what keeps the gum tissue around your veneers healthy.

3. Floss gently every day. Daily flossing around the veneer margins prevents plaque from building up where the veneer meets the gum and keeps the surrounding tissue in good condition.

4. Avoid biting directly into hard foods. Nuts, hard lollies, baguettes, and ice can chip or fracture veneers. Cut hard foods into smaller pieces and use your back teeth for chewing.

5. Wear a night guard every night if you grind or clench. Grinding and clenching during sleep can fracture veneers or cause premature wear. A custom-fitted night guard protects both your veneers and your natural teeth. Ask your Core Dental Group clinician to organise one if you don't already have one.

6. Top up your whitening periodically. Ceramic veneers won't respond to bleaching gel, but the natural teeth around them can stain and yellow over time. Periodic at-home or in-chair whitening keeps your natural teeth matching the veneer colour.

7. Wear a sports mouthguard during contact sport. Any impact to the mouth risks damaging your veneers. A well-fitted custom mouthguard provides the protection you need.

8. Keep up with six-monthly check-ups and cleans. Regular appointments allow your dentist and hygienist to check the condition of your veneers, monitor the gum margin, and clean areas that are difficult to maintain at home.

For any concerns about your veneers, call Core Dental Group on 13 13 16 or visit coredental.com.au.

Specialist care when you need it

For complex cases requiring a specialist prosthodontist, your Core Dental Group dentist can refer you directly to the Collins Street Specialist Centre, part of the Smile Solutions Group, where more than 25 registered specialists across every dental discipline practise under one roof. Browse the specialist directory to learn more.

Label facts summary

Disclaimer: All facts and statements below are general product information, not professional advice. Consult relevant experts for specific guidance.

Verified label facts

Practice details

• Business name: Core Dental Group South Melbourne
• Address: 324 Clarendon St, South Melbourne
• Phone: (03) 9114 7700
• National phone: 13 13 16
• Email: southmelbourne@coredental.com.au
• Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 am–6:00 pm; Saturday 8:00 am–1:30 pm; closed Sunday
• Part of: Smile Solutions Group
• Nearby landmark: South Melbourne Market
• Access: Tram access available; street parking available

Pricing (published)

• Composite bonding: from $250 per tooth
• In-chair Zoom! whitening: from $500
• Take-home Pola whitening: from $299
• CEREC same-day crowns: from $1,600
• Porcelain veneer pricing: provided at consultation only

Treatment specifications

• In-chair Zoom! whitening duration: approximately 90 minutes
• Take-home Pola whitening duration: approximately 2 weeks
• Zoom! whitening maximum result: up to 8 shades lighter
• Porcelain veneer lifespan: 10–25 years
• Composite bonding lifespan: 3–7 years with good care
• In-chair whitening result duration: 6–12 months with maintenance
• Porcelain veneer appointments required: typically two
• Composite bonding appointments required: often one
• CEREC crown appointments required: one
• Porcelain veneer treatment: permanent (enamel removal required)
• Composite bonding: reversible; minimal or no tooth preparation required
• Composite veneer treatment: often reversible
• Veneer preparation anaesthetic: local anaesthetic used
• Composite bonding anaesthetic: none required
• Post-whitening sensitivity duration: 24–48 hours (temporary)
• Post-veneer sensitivity duration: a few weeks; resolves on its own
• Complimentary consultation duration: 30 minutes; no obligation

Clinician credentials

• Dr Scott Krause: DDS, Loma Linda University, California, 2009; 15+ years experience; licensed in US, Australia, and New Zealand
• Dr Stephanie Sarkis: BBiomed, DDS, University of Melbourne
• Dr Joy Wang: BBioMed, University of Melbourne; DMD, University of Sydney; languages: English and Mandarin
• Dr Manisha Bhatt: BOH, MDent, Griffith University; languages: English and Malay
• In-house ceramist: Greg Karabasis, Master Ceramist; qualification: Diploma of Dental Technology, RMIT

Technology and equipment

• CEREC: chairside crown design, milling, and fitting in one appointment
• iTero 3D digital scan: available for veneer planning
• HICAPS: available on-site for health fund claims
• Resin reveal (trial smile): included in veneer packages at no additional charge

Payment options

• Payright interest-free payment plans: available up to 30 months
• Written quotes: provided before all treatment

Specialist referral

• Collins Street Specialist Centre (CSSC): part of Smile Solutions Group
• Number of registered specialists at CSSC: more than 25

General product claims

• Cosmetic dentistry described as "one of the most worthwhile investments you can make"
• Team described as "experienced" and "artistically-minded"
• Porcelain veneers described as offering "exceptional precision and natural appearance"
• Greg Karabasis described as handcrafting veneers to "exacting standards of colour, translucency, and shape"
• Composite bonding described as "a popular choice for younger patients"
• Smile makeover described as delivering "harmonious, natural-looking results"
• Consultation process described as involving "no pressure tactics"
• CEREC crowns described as "ideal for damaged back teeth requiring both function and appearance restoration"
• Whitening before bonding recommended so bonding can be matched to the new shade
• Invisalign recommended before veneers for "the final aesthetic outcome"
• Healthy gums described as "essential" before veneer placement
• Electric toothbrush with pressure sensor recommended to prevent gum recession
• Night guard recommended for patients who grind or clench
• Sports mouthguard recommended during contact sport
• Six-monthly check-ups recommended for veneer maintenance
• Ceramic veneers stated to not whiten with bleaching gel
• Periodic whitening of natural teeth recommended to match veneer colour over time
• Patients advised to avoid biting directly into hard foods after veneer placement
• Core Dental Group described as offering seamless specialist referral via CSSC