Sometimes, a smile says it all. But when it no longer reflects who we are or how we feel, it can become a constant reminder of what we want to change. This was the case for Isabel, a 31-year-old woman whose smile, previously designed with resin veneers, no longer met her expectations. Short teeth, noticeable color differences, microfractures, and even a veneer that had completely fallen off led Isabel to seek something more.
Her previous design, though functional at the time, had lost its charm over the years. Resin, a material known for its versatility and aesthetic appeal, requires regular maintenance to preserve its look. Over time, it can be more prone to wear and staining if not properly maintained, which made it difficult for Isabel to keep the uniformity and freshness she desired. Additionally, the square, wide shape of her teeth, combined with their short length, gave her a less vibrant appearance. For a young woman of 31, short teeth can diminish the harmony of a smile, making it appear dull and lacking the vitality that a well-proportioned smile typically conveys.
The dental team, led by Dr. Daniel Zabaleta and Dr. Paola Zabaleta, immediately understood Isabel’s vision. It wasn’t just about changing her smile, but about restoring her confidence and bringing light back to her face. The treatment plan was clear: remove the resin veneers and opt for a comprehensive approach that ensured both aesthetics and functionality.
To achieve this, vertical dimension was increased using tabletops, a technique that creates the necessary space in the anterior teeth to avoid functional interferences during natural jaw movements like chewing. This step was essential to ensure the new design was not only visually harmonious, but also functionally reliable in the long term.
To achieve this, vertical dimension was increased using tabletops, a technique that creates the necessary space in the anterior teeth to avoid functional interferences during natural jaw movements like chewing. This step was essential to ensure the new design was not only visually harmonious, but also functionally reliable in the long term.
The chosen material was lithium disilicate, known for its strength, durability, and ability to maintain its color for years. The 20 veneers placed on Isabel’s upper and lower anterior teeth completely transformed her look: longer, more harmonious, and luminous. A look that now stands out as the focal point of her face, radiating confidence and freshness.
This wasn’t just an aesthetic change; it was a new beginning. A reminder that sometimes, the smallest details make the biggest difference.
With treatments like this, it’s possible to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary, blending art, science, and a deep understanding of what each patient dreams of when they sit in the dental chair. Because at the end of the day, a smile is not only designed—it’s felt.
Case review written by Dr. Laura Bula, expert in dental and facial aesthetics