As a dentist for more than 20 years, I’ve spent my career helping patients make their smiles healthier and more confident. My own teeth were healthy—but I’ll admit, I wanted more. They were a little too small, had a few spaces, and showed some wear from years of grinding.

Did I need to change anything? Not really. But I really wanted an upgrade, and I knew firsthand how much a smile transformation can boost confidence.

Getting Started: Previewing My New Smile

The process began with digital models of my teeth. This technology allowed me to preview different looks and make adjustments until I found a style I loved. For patients, this step is always exciting—it’s the moment you get to “test drive” your new smile before any work begins.

Once I settled on the design, I partnered with my colleague, Dr. Pak, who is truly amazing. She prepped 10 veneers and crafted temporary ones that were already beautiful. Even during this “in-between” phase, I felt more confident about my smile.

Crafting the Perfect Veneers

For the past 16 years, I’ve worked closely with Drake Precision Dental Lab here in Charlotte. They are exceptional partners in patient care. Over the years, I’ve built both a professional partnership and a personal friendship with their director, Mark Stueck.

To make this process even more meaningful, I visited the lab in person to meet with Julie, the technician who would create my custom veneers. Julie is a true artist—her attention to detail and commitment to natural beauty is unmatched. She made sure every shade and contour complemented my smile and face.

The Big Day: Placing My Veneers

Last week, Dr. Pak placed Julie’s beautiful work, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. The procedure itself was smooth and comfortable. I only needed a tiny bite adjustment afterward, and that was it.

Now, I have the smile I’ve always wanted—one that’s strong, natural-looking, and built to last.

Final Thoughts

As dentists, we often focus on giving our patients the confidence to smile freely. Going through this journey myself was a powerful reminder of just how transformative cosmetic dentistry can be. Veneers aren’t about creating a “perfect” smile—they’re about creating the right smile for you.

If you’ve ever wondered about veneers or cosmetic dentistry, I can tell you from both a professional and personal perspective: the results are life-changing.