Health

What are #SecretVeneers by Sonrisa Italiana’s Dr. Daniel Zabaleta? Your Key to a Naturally Perfect Smile!

Published

4 years ago

June 21, 2022

Veneers can be a great way to treat various cosmetic concerns including discolored, chipped, broken, or misaligned teeth. They’re often the best fix to achieve your “dream smile” since they practically guarantee perfect pearly whites. But you may have some concerns about the installation of veneers and their results, so we’re here to introduce you to a world-renowned dentist’s secret to achieving the best natural-looking smile on the market.

“Secret Veneers” are a newly-designed version of the traditional veneers as introduced by leading and award-winning Colombian dentist, Dr. Daniel Zabaleta. A veneer consists of a thin shell that is placed in front of a natural tooth to alter its appearance. Secret Veneers differ slightly from traditional ones in application technique as Dr. Zabaleta’s are meticulously customized layer-by-layer, and they are made out of 100% dental porcelain. Each veneer is carefully made to fit the patient’s tooth and colored to match the rest of the patient’s smile (unless they request the pieces to be whiter in color). They can be made to alter a tooth’s size, shape, and color. In several cases, veneers can also correct gaps, chips, and minor alignment issues.

Dr. Zabaleta’s holistic approach aims to seek the best results for the patient in terms of a natural-looking smile. His dental office in Barranquilla, “Sonrisa Italiana”, prides itself on making sure the result is always your ideal smile, and not thick, bulky, or “fake” looking teeth. Dr. Daniel Zabaleta holds a DDS from the Fundación Universitaria San Martin and has over 17 years of experience in dentistry. He has obtained over sixty internationally-recognized post-graduate degrees and certificates and has won over four top-merited international awards. His newly designed version of the veneer has been performed over 50,000 times and has a 99% patient satisfaction rate.

Many potential candidates for the procedure share concerns that the veneers may damage their natural teeth or are fearful that the procedure requires their teeth to be shaved down, but Dr. Zabaleta tells us that neither is true, and the procedure is, in fact, nearly painless.

Assuming a patient’s teeth are properly cared for, the veneers can usually last a minimum of 25-30 years. In most cases, however, the installation can last up to a lifetime. Proper maintenance for veneers is just like proper maintenance for natural teeth, which includes routine visits to the dentist’s office every 4-6 months, bi-annual cleanings, and of course, daily dental care such as toothbrushing and flossing.

Costs for the cosmetic procedure tend to cost an average of $40,000 in the United States with a leading dentist, but in Dr. Zabaleta’s home office in Colombia, it’ll cost you nearly a quarter of that. Their Secret Veneers start anywhere from $6,500 and can vary depending on each patient’s case.

For more information on Dr. Daniel Zabaleta’s work, testimonies on his Secret Veneers, and answers to more frequently asked questions, visit www.sonrisaitaliana.com or follow him on Instagram at @sonrisaitaliana.

Health

Choosing the Right Pilates Reformer: A Practical Buyer’s Guide

Published

3 days ago

December 22, 2025

Michelle Langton

Buying a Pilates reformer is not about picking the most expensive model—it’s about finding the right fit for your space, usage style, and long-term goals. Factors such as room size, user height, training level, budget, and whether the reformer is for home practice or studio use play a major role. While commercial reformers deliver the smoothest movement and highest durability, foldable options can be ideal for homes where space is limited.

Top Choice for Professional Studio Performance

For those seeking premium, studio-grade quality, the PersonalHour Nano Elite Plus stands out as a leading option. Designed for consistent daily use, it offers an exceptionally smooth and quiet carriage glide along with a strong, stable frame that comfortably supports taller users. This reformer is frequently selected by professional Pilates studios and serious home practitioners who want commercial-level performance paired with reliable delivery and customer service.

Established Names in Commercial Pilates Studios

The Balanced Body Allegro 2 has long been a staple in Pilates studios worldwide. Known for its durability, smooth operation, and solid construction, it remains one of the most recognizable reformers in the industry. Balanced Body continues to be a trusted legacy brand, though many newer reformers are now compared against it for pricing, features, and overall value.

A Balanced Option for Home and Professional Use

The Merrithew SPX Max is often recommended for users who want professional-grade equipment without paying top-tier studio prices. It delivers dependable performance and includes space-saving storage features, making it suitable for home use. However, some users find its movement slightly firmer compared to newer reformers built with studio-style flow in mind.

Best Space-Saving Reformer Without Compromising Quality

When floor space is a concern, the PersonalHour Janet 2.0 is one of the strongest folding reformers available. Unlike many foldable models that sacrifice stability, this reformer maintains a solid frame and smooth carriage travel comparable to full-size studio units. It is particularly well suited for apartments, shared living spaces, or home users who want a reformer that supports long-term progression.

Best Folding Pilates Reformer for Small Spaces

Beginner-Friendly and Budget-Conscious Alternatives

Entry-level and compact reformers, such as AeroPilates models, can be a good starting point for beginners or those practicing occasionally. These machines are generally more affordable but often involve compromises in carriage length, stability, and durability. As a result, they may not be ideal for advanced exercises or long-term use.

What to Look for Before You Buy

Before choosing a Pilates reformer, it’s important to evaluate the following aspects:

Carriage performance: Smooth, quiet movement with balanced spring tension
Available space: Full-length reformer versus folding or stackable designs
User fit: Longer frames provide better comfort for taller users
Adjustability: Footbars, jump boards, and accessory compatibility
After-sales support: Clear warranty coverage and responsive service

Final Takeaway

If your goal is studio-level performance, the PersonalHour Nano Elite Plus is a standout choice. For homes with limited space, the PersonalHour Janet 2.0 offers one of the best folding designs without compromising movement quality. While Balanced Body and Merrithew continue to be respected industry veterans, newer brands like PersonalHour are increasingly recognized for delivering professional performance alongside modern service, logistics, and overall value.

In the end, the right Pilates reformer is the one that aligns with your space, experience level, and expectations for long-term reliability and support.