EXPERIENCE APA AESTHETIC LA

For many people, a smile is one of the most defining features, serving as a first impression in personal and professional interactions. Refinery29’s Senior Editorial Director, Carli Whitwell, understands this sentiment deeply. Recently, she embarked on a journey to enhance her smile with porcelain veneers at Apa Aesthetic LA, under the expert care of Dr. Andi-Jean Miro.

The decision to undergo a smile transformation was not made lightly. Whitwell, known for her friendly and engaging demeanor, had always been complimented on her warm smile. However, she had concerns about the size of her teeth, which she felt were smaller than she desired. Now, with more information about cosmetic dentistry, smile makeovers and, of course, veneers more readily available, she decided to do some research. 

Apa Aesthetic is renowned for its state-of-the-art dental procedures, offering patients the ability to enhance their natural beauty with minimally invasive techniques. Dr. Apa opened his LA office in 2019 and assembled a team that represents that best in the industry, including Dr. Andi-Jean Miro, a seasoned dentist with a decade of experience. Having graduated from NYU Dental School in 2014, she initially worked in the New York City office before moving to Los Angeles to share her expertise with the West Coast.

The process of receiving porcelain veneers is meticulous and customized for each patient. During the consultation, Dr. Andi reassured Whitwell that her natural teeth would not need extensive shaving, as is sometimes assumed with veneers. Instead, the goal was to subtly enhance her existing smile by closing small gaps and making minor adjustments to achieve a brighter, more balanced look.

Porcelain veneers are crafted using two primary materials: feldspathic porcelain, which involves the hand-layering of ceramic for a natural appearance, and resin-based bonding material, which is more prone to chipping and staining over time. Dr. Andi emphasized that porcelain is the preferred option due to its durability and ability to mimic the translucency of natural teeth. Veneers can range in price from $800 to more than $5,000 per tooth, making them a significant investment. However, Dr. Andi believes that quality dental work is worth the cost, as poor dental procedures often require costly corrections in the future.

The initial stage of the procedure involved taking comprehensive records, including X-rays and digital scans. Whitwell was particularly fascinated by the digital imaging process, which allowed her to understand the potential results before any work was done. With the rise of video calls and social media, many individuals have become more self-conscious about their appearance, leading to a surge in demand for cosmetic dental procedures. Dr. Andi noted that the increased exposure to high-definition screens during the pandemic had contributed to a growing awareness of dental aesthetics.

A key part of the process was the creation of temporary veneers, which Whitwell would wear for three weeks. These temporaries allowed her to adjust to the feel of her new teeth and provide feedback before the permanent veneers were crafted. Dr. Andi likened this phase to test-driving a car before making a final decision. During this period, Whitwell had to follow specific guidelines, such as avoiding foods that could stain or damage the temporary veneers and using a straw for highly pigmented beverages.

While the temporary phase required some adjustments, the final appointment marked a significant transformation. The temporary veneers were removed, and the final restorations were carefully placed. Each veneer was individually fitted and bonded to ensure a seamless blend with her natural teeth. Once secured, the veneers were polished to perfection, ensuring they looked indistinguishable from natural teeth.

The moment of reveal was filled with excitement and emotion. Seeing her new smile for the first time, Whitwell was overjoyed with the results. The veneers maintained the essence of her original smile while enhancing its brightness and symmetry. Rather than appearing artificial, they looked completely natural, leading friends and colleagues to notice a positive change without immediately realizing she had undergone a cosmetic dental procedure.

To maintain the longevity of her porcelain veneers, Dr. Andi advised regular dental checkups every three to four months, the use of an electric toothbrush, and sleeping in a retainer or night guard to protect against grinding. With proper maintenance, high-quality veneers can last up to 20 years, preserving the beauty and functionality of the smile.

Two weeks after the procedure, Whitwell reflected on her experience. Any initial concerns about altering her natural appearance had dissipated, replaced with newfound confidence. She expressed appreciation for the thoughtful approach taken by Dr. Andi and the Apa Aesthetic team, who ensured that every step of the journey was tailored to her individual needs. By enhancing her smile in a way that felt authentic, Whitwell felt more radiant than ever.

The success of Whitwell’s smile transformation highlights the expertise and artistry at Apa Aesthetic. By focusing on personalized treatments and minimally invasive techniques, the clinic has set a new standard in cosmetic dentistry. Whether seeking subtle enhancements or more dramatic changes, Apa Aesthetic LA continues to be a leading destination for those looking to invest in their smile with the confidence that they are in the best hands.