2026 Cost & Comparison Guide

If you’re planning a smile makeover, the two treatments you’ll come across most often are crowns and veneers. Both can transform the shape, colour and alignment of your teeth, but they work differently, suit different problems, and come at different price points. Here’s a straightforward comparison to help you decide which is right for you — or whether you need a mix of both.

What’s the Difference Between a Crown and a Veneer?

A veneer is a thin shell of porcelain bonded to the front surface of a tooth. It’s designed to change the way a tooth looks — its colour, shape or minor alignment — while leaving most of the natural tooth structure intact.

A crown is a full cap that covers the entire tooth, restoring both its appearance and its strength. Crowns are typically used when a tooth is cracked, heavily filled, weakened by root canal treatment, or otherwise structurally compromised.

In short: veneers are a cosmetic solution for healthy teeth that just need to look better, while crowns are a restorative solution for teeth that need to be stronger as well as better looking. Our Crowns and Veneers page has full detail on both treatments and what’s involved at each visit.

How Much Do Veneers and Crowns Cost in Melbourne?

Costs vary based on how many teeth are treated and whether you need crowns, veneers, or a combination. Our Smile Makeover packages bundle porcelain crowns and veneers at a fixed price, so you know the full cost upfront:

Every Smile Makeover is planned around your individual smile, so the right package — and whether crowns, veneers, or both are used — comes down to a consultation. Get in touch and our team will talk you through the options and a personalised quote.

Which Option Lasts Longer — Veneers or Crowns?

Crowns generally last longer than veneers because they encase the whole tooth and are built to withstand the full force of biting and chewing — many last 10 to 15 years or more with good care. Porcelain veneers typically last 10 to 15 years as well, but because they only cover the front surface, they can be more prone to chipping at the edges if you grind your teeth or bite down on very hard foods. Both options are a long-term investment when properly cared for and reviewed at your regular dental check-ups.

Do I Need a Crown, a Veneer, or a Dental Implant?

Crowns and veneers both restore or enhance a tooth that’s still present in the mouth. If a tooth is missing altogether — whether from decay, injury, or extraction — neither treatment can help, and a dental implant is the appropriate option instead, as it replaces the entire tooth root and crown. If you’re not sure which category your situation falls into, a consultation is the quickest way to get a clear answer.

Is a Smile Makeover Right for You If You’ve Had Wisdom Teeth Issues?

If impacted or problematic wisdom teeth are affecting the alignment or health of your other teeth, it’s generally best to resolve that first. We recommend wisdom teeth removal as a separate, prior step so your mouth has fully settled before any cosmetic work begins — this gives your Smile Makeover the most stable, predictable result.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many veneers do I need for a full smile makeover?

Most smile makeovers use between 6 and 10 veneers or crowns, usually applied to the teeth visible when you smile. Our packages are built around 6, 8 or 10 teeth for this reason, though your dentist will confirm the ideal number for your smile at your consultation.

Are veneers painful to get fitted?

No. Local anaesthetic is used when preparing the tooth, so the process is comfortable. Most patients report mild sensitivity for a day or two afterwards, which settles quickly.

Can veneers fix crooked teeth without braces?

Veneers can visually correct minor misalignment, gaps and uneven edges without orthodontic treatment. For more significant crookedness, your dentist may recommend braces or clear aligners first, then veneers for final cosmetic refinement.

How long does a Smile Makeover take from start to finish?

Most Smile Makeovers are completed over two to three appointments across a few weeks, allowing time for design, fitting and any final adjustments.

Do you offer payment plans for crowns and veneers?

Yes, payment plan options are available. Contact our team to discuss what suits your budget.

Book Your Smile Makeover Consultation

Whether crowns, veneers or a combination of both is right for you, our team at Doncaster and Wantirna South can guide you through the options and build a plan around your budget and goals. Book your consultation today and take the first step towards your new smile.

Want to know more about who’s behind our clinics first? Visit our About Us page.