Minimal prep veneers,
by Dr Docherty
Dr Docherty plans and places every veneer case himself. His approach preserves as much of your natural tooth structure as possible — achieving what you're looking for with as little intervention as the case allows.
Minimal prep. Maximum preservation.
The conventional approach to veneers involves removing a significant amount of enamel from the front surface of each tooth. This is irreversible. Dr Docherty's philosophy is different — he uses ultra-thin porcelain and carefully plans each case to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible. In many cases, little to no enamel removal is required.
The result feels more natural because the underlying tooth is still largely intact. Veneers that work with your teeth rather than replacing them.
Every case is different. What's possible depends on the starting position of your teeth, your bite, and what you're looking to change. Dr Docherty assesses each case individually and is direct about what can and can't be achieved with a minimal prep approach.
Minimal prep vs traditional veneers
Not all veneers are the same. The key difference is how much natural tooth structure is removed during preparation.
Suitability for minimal prep veneers depends on individual clinical factors assessed at consultation. Not every case is suitable.
Which type is right for you?
The right veneer material depends on what you're looking to change, the condition of your teeth, and your budget. Dr Docherty discusses all options at your consultation.
Ultra-thin porcelain requiring little or no enamel removal. Natural appearance, high durability, colour-stable. A conservative long-term option where clinically suitable.
Standard preparation porcelain veneers. Required when significant colour, shape, or alignment changes are needed. More preparation involved but highly durable and aesthetic.
Tooth-coloured resin shaped directly on the tooth. No enamel removal required. Less durable than porcelain but reversible and more affordable — a good starting option for some cases.
Patient cases — before & after
Before
After
Before
After
Before
AfterWho veneers work well for
Veneers are one option among several. Whether they're the right choice depends on your individual situation — assessed at your consultation.
Intrinsic staining from medications, fluorosis, or old restorations. Veneers can address tooth colour where whitening may not be effective, depending on the individual case.
Teeth that have been worn down, chipped, or are naturally uneven in shape or length. Veneers restore the visual line of the teeth.
Small gaps between teeth can often be closed with veneers without the need for orthodontic treatment — depending on the size of the gap and your bite.
Mild misalignment can be addressed with veneers in some cases. More significant alignment issues are often better treated with Invisalign first — or instead.
Teeth with large fillings or previous crowns may be better suited to crown treatment rather than veneers. Assessed at consultation.
Any underlying dental health issues need to be addressed before cosmetic treatment can begin. Dr Docherty assesses this at consultation.
Book a consultation and Dr Docherty will assess your situation and present all relevant options — with no obligation to proceed.
From consultation to final result
60 minutes at the Circular Quay clinic with Dr Docherty. Clinical photographs, digital scans, and a full assessment of your teeth, gums, and bite. You leave with a clear treatment plan and full cost breakdown.
Dr Docherty designs your veneer treatment using digital planning. The number of veneers, the shade, the shape, and the preparation required are all determined before any work begins. In some cases, a mock-up can be created to preview the result.
Where preparation is required, the teeth are gently shaped and digital impressions taken. A temporary veneer is placed while your permanent porcelain veneers are fabricated at the dental laboratory.
Your permanent veneers are checked for fit, colour, and bite before being bonded in place. Adjustments are made until everything feels and looks right.
Veneer treatment costs
A full cost breakdown is provided at your consultation. Payment plan options are available to spread the cost over time.
Amounts are indicative only. Final costs depend on the number of teeth treated, individual treatment needs, and payment plan provider. Terms and lending criteria apply. Cosmetic veneers are not covered by Medicare. Some private health extras may contribute — check with your insurer.
Frequently asked questions
The same dentist,
start to finish.
Book a consultation at Circular Quay with Dr Docherty — the dentist who will also be planning and placing your veneers.