Cosmetic dentistry

Teeth whitening and veneers in Canberra

Cosmetic dentistry changes how your teeth look — most often whitening to lighten stained teeth, or veneers to change the shape or colour of front teeth.

Dr Kaur first checks your teeth and gums are healthy, then talks you through what's realistic, the risks and the cost, so you can decide.

Book a visit Call 02 6160 0540

Bamboo toothbrushes in a glass jar with eucalyptus leaves

With Dr Kaur

Common reasons

What people ask us about

Stained or yellowing teethFrom tea, coffee, red wine, smoking or age³.
A single darker toothSometimes after an injury or root canal treatment³.
Chipped or worn front teethEdges that have worn down or chipped over time.
Uneven shape or sizeTeeth you'd like to look more even.

Two options

Whitening or veneers?

Teeth whitening

A bleaching gel lightens the colour of tooth enamel³. Only registered dental professionals can use products stronger than 6% hydrogen peroxide³⁴.

In-chair whitening, done at the clinic in one appointment
Take-home whitening with custom-made trays — slower, but the result isn't worse³
Doesn't change the colour of crowns, veneers or white fillings⁵
Not recommended if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, have sensitive teeth or gum disease³

Veneers

Thin shells of porcelain or tooth-coloured composite resin, bonded to the front of teeth to change their colour, shape or size².

Little or no tooth structure may need to be removed, depending on the type²
Can cover chips, wear and stains that whitening can't reach
An elective treatment²
May need repair or replacement in future²

What happens

How cosmetic treatment works

1
Talk about your goals
What you'd like to change, and why. Photos can help.
2
Health check first
Any decay or gum problems are treated before cosmetic work, so results last.
3
Options and estimate
What's realistic for your teeth, the risks, and the full cost in writing.
4
Treatment
Whitening in the chair or at home, or veneers over planned visits.
5
Review
A check that everything feels right, plus advice on looking after your smile.

Treatments

Cosmetic treatments we offer

In-chair whitening
Professional whitening at the clinic³.
Take-home whitening
Custom trays and gel to use at home under our guidance³.
Veneers
Porcelain or composite veneers for shape, colour and size².

Who it's for

Adults with healthy teeth and gums

Cosmetic treatment starts with a healthy mouth. If you're due for a check-up, we'll start there — see general dentistry.

Comfort and cost

What to expect

Sensitivity

Temporary tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are the most common side effects of whitening⁴. Dr Kaur will tell you how to prevent and manage them⁵.

Cost

You'll receive a written estimate before treatment. Cosmetic treatment isn't covered by the CDBS¹. Fees and health funds.

No before-and-after photos

Every smile is different. Instead of showing other people's results, Dr Kaur will talk you through what's realistic for yours.

Good to know

Things to consider

Whitening isn't suitable for everyone, and staining from inside a tooth may not respond to gel on the outside³.
After whitening, existing crowns, veneers or white fillings may no longer match and may need replacing⁵.
Having a veneer doesn't mean the tooth will never need treatment again².

Your dentist

Dr Amandeep Kaur

Dr Kaur is a general dentist with a particular interest in cosmetic dentistry. She'll explain your options clearly and take the time you need.

Meet Dr Kaur

Questions

Cosmetic dentistry: your questions

Is professional teeth whitening safe?

Whitening is considered safe and effective when done by, or under the supervision of, a dentist following professional directions. Temporary sensitivity and gum irritation are the most common side effects⁴.

Does whitening damage enamel?

Used under dental supervision, whitening is considered safe; sensitivity and gum irritation are the usual side effects⁴. Whitening kits used without a dental check can put you at risk³.

Will whitening lighten my crowns or fillings?

No. Whitening only lightens natural enamel, so existing crowns, veneers or white fillings may not match afterwards⁵.

Can I whiten my teeth while pregnant?

It isn't recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding³.

How long do veneers last?

It varies. Veneers may need repair or replacement over time, and Dr Kaur will explain how to look after yours².

Keep exploring

Planning your visit

Sources

Health information on this page is general and based on the sources below. It isn't a substitute for advice about your own situation. Last reviewed 21 October 2026.

Ready when you are

Questions about cosmetic dentistry? Book a visit and Dr Kaur will talk you through your options.

Book a visit Call 02 6160 0540

Teeth whitening and veneers in Canberra

What people ask us about