Bayside Smiles
A Great Dentist
Need an appointment after office hours? Our Moorabbin Practice now has extended hours on a Thursday evening. 
woman smiling after restorative treatments in Moorabbin

Understanding Your Dental Restoration Options: Fillings, Crowns and Veneers Explained

August 20, 2025
|
Posted By: Dr Mihir Hargovan
couple smiling near Melbourne, VIC

When you hear your dental team using words like fillings, crowns and veneers, you may have a general sense of what they mean, but what do they really mean for your smile? At Bayside Smiles, we realise that dental terminology can be confusing, but we’re here to answer your questions and guide you through the restoration process from start to finish.

Why Dental Restoration is Important

Dental restorations are designed to repair, replace or restore your smile’s functionality and appearance, addressing concerns such as tooth decay, missing or damaged teeth.

Filling: The Solution for Minor Damage and Decay

We use tooth-coloured composite resin to restore your decayed tooth. Once we remove the decayed portion of your tooth, we’ll clean and disinfect the area before adding the composite resin and hardening it with a special light. Your dental filling will blend seamlessly with your other teeth; no one will know!

Crown: The 'Cap' for Significant Structural Repair

For a damaged tooth or one that’s undergone root canal therapy, we often add a dental crown to completely cover your natural tooth. Dental crowns give your smile the support it needs, and they look and feel completely natural, making it possible to bite down and chew with ease.

Veneer: The Cosmetic Enhancer for Your Smile

These thin porcelain shells are customised to fit over the front sides of your teeth, concealing numerous dental concerns, including broken, cracked, worn or discoloured teeth. Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic option that can give you the smile you’ve always wanted. And with proper care, they can last for 10 years or longer.

At-a-Glance Comparison: Fillings vs. Crowns vs. Veneers

Fillings, crowns and veneers are all dental restorations, but they serve different purposes:

  • Fillings: Used to repair tooth decay
  • Crowns: Used to cover and protect damaged teeth
  • Veneers: Used to improve the appearance of your teeth

Need a Cosmetic Dentist in Black Rock, VIC?

If you’d like to explore your cosmetic treatment options, our experienced dental team will happily assist you! At Bayside Smiles in Black Rock, Village and Moorabbin, we can customise a treatment plan tailored to your smile goals and budget.

Feel free to contact any of our three locations to book a consultation or appointment.

We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.