Tray 12

"Smile" ~ Nat King Cole
Smile though your heart is aching 
Smile even though it's breaking 
When there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by 
If you smile through your fear and sorrow 
Smile and maybe tomorrow 
You'll see the sun come shining through for you 

Light up your face with gladness 
Hide every trace of sadness 
Although a tear may be ever so near 
That's the time you must keep on trying 
Smile, what's the use of crying? 
You'll find that life is still worthwhile 
If you just smile 

That's the time you must keep on trying 
Smile, what's the use of crying? 
You'll find that life is still worthwhile 
If you just smile

Smile and Enjoy your day! Next update will be in 2 weeks. 

From Gap to Gone 

Monique 

Tray 11

I went to the orthodontist on November 5th and received 5 more trays. I did a comparison of Tray 10 and 15 with the 15th tray my gap will be half the size that it is now. I'll go back to the orthodontist in January to pick up additional ones. Woo Hoo! Dr. Zammitti has provided me with positive feedback regarding my progress. During my visit he looked at the current position of my teeth and said I was doing a great job wearing the aligners. It's simple wear them 22hrs a day, take them out to eat, and your teeth move. I'm really loving my results so far. I'm almost at the halfway point and can't wait to reach the finish line.

        

                                                           

                                                            From Gap To Gone

The long awaited update Tray 10

Hello All,

I haven't posted in a while but I've been extremely busy. Between school, work, & family I haven't had a great deal of time free time. I at least need to get to the point where I can post pics every tray change (working on this).  My gap is certainly decreasing in size and I'm now in the double digit trays. This is what I've been waiting on because the "real magic" happens now. My bottom teeth (minor spacing) are so much straighter, but I still have a little space between them. I only have 9 more trays until the bottom teeth are complete. My top teeth (major gap) still have 16 trays remaining. I'm ready for it to be completely closed. I don't have much patience at all, but there is nothing I can do about it but wait it out. I'm really excited about these upcoming months. The change that I have already noticed in my teeth is wonderful.   I've posted comparison pictures of Tray 1 & Tray 10 (What a Difference). I go visit my orthodontist November 5th to receive 5 additional trays.  I'm over the moon with excitement!

 

FYI - Get out and Vote!

Monique

From Gap to Gone

Tray 7

Hello All,

I know this is late but I've been busy. I don't have anything to additional to say about the trays. Here is a picture of me wearing tray 7. Slowly but surely it's closing.

I have a really interesting post that I'm working on for you about oral bacteria & invisalign. I'll be posting it for you within the next week.

Tray 6 Pics

Slowly but surely my gap is decreasing in size. All I can do is smile about it. 

Me wearing Tray 6

The gap and I

Tray 6

On August 27th I had my first follow up appointment at Dr. Zammitti's office, which was pretty exciting. I was told to remove my old trays (5) and put the new ones in. As usual there was a tight fit, but I'm used to the pain now and it's not as bad as my first or second tray. I believe that after your first 3 trays your teeth become used to the pressure of tray changes.

During the visit we reviewed my initial pictures from the first day that I went into the office and there is such a awesome change in my teeth. When I heard Dr Z tell his assist to LOOK at the difference. I felt like he was excited for me, which was a plus! He even said "This is going to be great". The visit only lasted about 15 - 20 minutes. He took a look at my teeth to ensure they were moving properly. The icing on the cake was when his assistant showed me my final tray (25)! I'm so thrilled about it.

My husband made the comment to me that he hopes I'm happy once I'm finished with treatment. He's under the impression that after I close my gap I won't be pleased with the change. I explained to him that this has been something I haven't liked about myself all my life. Regret is the last emotion that I think I'll feel. It'll be a feeling of relief. I might be in the front yard turning cart wheels when it's over. It's sweet of him to be concerned but there is absolutely no need. I GOT THIS.

I received another 5 trays and will return to Dr. Z's office in Nov. I'm looking forward to getting into the double digit trays. That's when most of the magic happens! I'll post pics later. I just wanted to provide you with an update.

 Monique

From Gap To Gone

My Clincheck animation:

Hello All,


I just wanted to share my Clincheck animation with you all. The video will show the predicted movement of my teeth per tray. I can't wait to get into the double digit trays. The most dramatic changes will take place then. FYI -  I don't have any issues such as crowding or missing teeth. My only issue is the gap. I can thank my wonderful gene pool for it. The video is also linked to my orthodontist website. If you're in the N.C area I truly recommend Dr. Zammitti. He and his staff have been a pleasure to deal with. If you look at his "about me" section I think you'll be impressed with his credentials. I feel like I'm in excellent hands.



Click Here


Monique,
From Gap To Gone

Tray 5 - Coming Together

Okay I feel like gossiping today! I see a budding romance occurring between teeth 8 & 9. I'm getting hints that the 2 would like to be together. You see tooth 8 has been looking at tooth 9 for about 32 years. If you're wondering what was stopping the relationship from forming it was because they were both in relationships with others. Tooth 8 was with tooth 7 and tooth 9 was with tooth 10. These two couples were inseparable or so it seemed. Sometimes things aren't always what they appear to be. Couples can appear to be happy on the outside but at home they are miserable. Noticeable changes are taking place between Teeth 7 & 8 as well as 9 & 10.  I believe the changes are for the better. You see teeth 8 & 9 are meant to be together and nothing meant to be can be kept apart. I'll keep you posted as things progress.

I've listed pictures of Tray 1 & 5 for your review. I do believe that in comparing the two pictures you'll see the chemistry between 8 & 9. Look closely and you will see that it's inevitable that these 2 will be joined.

Tray 1

Tray 5

Monique

From Gap To Gone

Tray (4) A Brief Overview

My time with Tray (4) is coming to an end. I don't have much of an update available for you. It's same the same routine daily. I've listed 2 pictures of me wearing this set of Trays for you to review below. I'm soooo ready for August 27th. I'll be picking up more trays on that day. Hopefully I'll receive 5 more. Hint Hint Dr. Z or Susan if you're reading this :) *Fingers Crossed*

I can say that from the start of this process I was told it would go by quickly between changing from one tray to the next and I must say that has been very true. The wait to actually receive the trays was horrible. I feel like it took forever for them to arrive, however good things come to those who wait. I must admit invisalign has truly been a good thing in my eyes.

The happiness that I feel to see a change in the size of my gap is almost hard for me to explain. I've had this hidden insecurity about it for so long it's crazy. I never told anyone else how much I hated having it because I felt like that would open the door for them to say I'm glad I don't have one. Shoot who wants to hear that when it's something about yourself that's genetic. It's not like I stood in line and ordered it. Please hold for a little sarcasm. I'll take a large gap please! That's like me saying oh I'm glad I don't have light skin or blond hair. You can't help what you get, but you sure can change it! I'm proof off that and so is my smile. Changes are occurring and I'm thrilled. I'll keep you posted :)

Signed Monique 

From Gap to Gone!

Tray (3) & I - Still Hanging

Tray (3) went well. I've gotten used to the pain that's involved with switching from one tray to another. I'm not experiencing some of the issues that I've heard others complain about such as headaches, throbbing teeth, loose teeth, or bad breath (well nobody has told me if so LOL). I soak my trays in denture cleaning solution 3 days a week and I brush them with water only prior to putting them in. 

Something that does annoy me is when I'm out and want to go to a drive through to grab a bite to eat. I have to remove the tray from my mouth if I eat in the car. I always request a additional cup of water and a empty cup (Yes for the reason you're thinking). After I eat I rinse my mouth with water and take my tooth brush to get any food that's on my teeth off and put my trays back in until I get to a sink to brush. Don't judge me - Hey it's do what you have to do or be hungry. (LOL) If you don't know - I am a FOODIE to the core of me. Honestly, the time from switching from one tray to the next is just zooming by. I go back to see my orthodontist on the 27th. Hopefully I receive another 5 trays and he's pleased with my progress so far. We shall see. Stay posted. 

Thank you to everyone that has provided feedback on my blog so far. It means alot to feel like I'm not just talking to myself! :)

The end of Tray 3. 

Life with Tray (2)

Life with Tray (2) has been good so far. Initially I felt pain and some discomfort during the first 2 days, which was to be expected. The pain subsided greatly after day 2. I've now been with Tray 2 for 1 week and have no more pain at all. This investment in myself was one of the greatest things that I've ever done. I'm noticing movement at this point, which is extremely exciting. YAY!

 I've also experienced what's called the invisalign diet. This entails major weight loss (17lbs) while wearing invisalign. Woo Hoo! The fact that I can't snack is a catch 22. On one hand I'm happy about the weight loss, but it can also get a little annoying that I can't just eat a bag of chips and go. I must brush/floss my teeth every time I eat.  It really makes me realize how much junk food I was eating! You must be determine and dedicated to go through this process. Overall I'm happy with this entire process. I'm getting rid of my gap and losing weight. I feel so much better physically due to the weight loss. I've also noticed that I have been smiling much more lately. Just the thought that I'm improving my smile has increased my confidence in this short time frame.  My teeth are also so much whiter due to all of the brushing that I've been doing. Invisalign so far has improved my life in a variety of ways and I'd say I'll been keeping Tray around for a while longer. I took the below picture the night before I switched  to Tray 3. I'll keep you posted on this journey. 

From Gap to Gone ~ Monique 

How Invisalign Trays are made

I've been wondering how the invisalign trays are actually made. It's amazing how this is such a custom process. I mean just think about it - there are millions of people who choose to go through the invisalign process and yet Align Technology ensures that the proper trays are made and shipped to each persons orthodontist/dentist. I think it's pretty cool. Thank GOD for technology! During my research on the manfacturing process I came across an interesting video on YouTube that explains it so much better than I could have so Enjoy!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xv3tfcaOraw

Monique
From Gap to Gone


SPYJJCYVQH29

Tray (1) & I - The Break Up

Tray 1 and I have broken up and honestly I'm thrilled. I was so excited meet Tray (1) that it was ridiculous. I felt like a giggly school girl when we were initially introduced. I believe I developed a slight obsession with Tray (1). The reading & watching videos consumed alot of my time prior to the meeting. However, after the excitement wore off there was a little pain involved for the first 3 days or so, but what relationship doesn't go through a adjustment period? I know I may be a little naive, but I thought Tray (1) and I had special bond. Maybe I'm a bit delusional, but to me Tray (1) was my custom fit. He was made just for me. I guess things just moved along too quickly and he & I outgrew one another. By the end of our 2 week romance Tray (1) was distant and I didn't feel we were as attached as we initially were. I was tempted to move on prior to the end of our first week together, but thought that would be a bad decision. I had to give us a fighting chance.  We were together on an average of 23 hrs per day. The recommend time that's considered optimal wear is 22 hrs a day.  Maybe I was to aggressive I mean I did pick him up (LOL).

FYI - Tray (1) said that he changed so I decided to give him another chance we'll see how much he actually changed. Can Tray and I make it through the next 50 weeks together? How soon will I notice this "change"? Is Tray truly the one for me? We shall see - Stay Tuned!

Switched to Tray (2) last night...The Saga Continues.

Signed,
Monique
From Gap to Gone!

 

The day finally arrived! Tray (1)

Alright Alright Alright! Yesterday I received my trays (5) & buttons (10)!!  The buttons completely blend in with teeth, which I'm glad about. I think Susan did a great job putting them on. She had a great personality and even posed for a few pics with me, which I'll have posted later. I also plan on posting a video showing the buttons being put on, but I need to edit it first. I'd like to give a shout out to my camera man - my husband. Prior to gettign invisalign I did a ton of research so I didn't have any questions for Dr. Zammitti. I walked in with the pass the trays and I'm out attitude. I felt like I knew exactly what to do with them, how to care for them, and I had a good understanding of how put the trays on and take them off.

I read tons of reviews where people stated invisalign isn't as clear as it was advertised. I disagree with this.  Personally I feel they are extremely clear. You must be right on me to see them. The buttons are perfectly matched to the color of my teeth also, which I saw compalints about.  I'm 100% satisfied with Dr. Zammitti's office so far. The ladies in the office are professional and genuiely seem to care about the patients. I would recommend this practice to anyone searching and ladies Dr. Z isn't bad on the eyes so that'll help motivate you to keep  your appointments. LOL.  He allowed me to view my clinicheck, which hopefully I can receive a copy of to post for you. Let me tell you I was THRILLED to see the results. The video showed the movement of my teeth based on tray by tray. The final tray showed all of the space between my teeth closed! WOO HOO!

When Dr. Z put the first tray on I felt some pressure on my teeth, which I expected, but it wasn't bad enough to take any pain medication. The worst part to me was when I took the trays off for the first time... I felt like I was going to rip my teeth out of my mouth and that was a little scary mainly because my front left tooth is a crown. I already have a gap I can't lose teeth on top of that! NO NO NO! Well sure enough the crown stayed put! GREAT SUCCESS!! I'm proud that it only took me less than 4 minutes to take both trays out of my mouth (yes I timed it). I've read that some people spend 15 - 20 minutes of the first removal. Hey I guess that means I've watched enough youtube videos on how to remove them. I received a total of 5 trays on my first visit and will return to Dr. Zammitti's office in August to pick up additional trays. In total I will have 25 Trays for the top teeth and 17 for the bottom. I'm truly excited to see the transformation take place and will continue to update my blog at least every 2 weeks.

 Susan & I. She was a ham!

Wearing Tray 1.

Having the buttons put on.

Signed,
Monique
From Gap to GONE!

6 More Days!

6 more days until I receive my trays. Enuff said!

Post Frenectomy Results

The surgery went very well. It was over within 10 minutes. I just had general anesthesia for the process. A little numbing gel, 3 or 4 quick shots of novocain, a laser, a suction tool, 2 - 3 slight tugs and it was over. Now the pain medicine has wore off. On a scale of 1-10 I'd say the pain level is a 2 - 2 1/2. It's almost like having a bad pizza burn. My husband took pictures for me and I'll be sure to post them for you soon.  I'm excited at this point. I feel in I'm in the home stretch. On June 19th I'm scheduled to receive my trays & buttons (will do a separate post to explain). Woot Woot! Straight teeth here I come.


Monique 
Fromgaptogone :)


Dr Zammitti was about to preform my frenectomy. I had to postpone him for a second so I could get this pic,

I've included a short video of the frenectomy being preformed (nothing gross I promise). 

Tomorrow's Frenectomy

Ok so I know I had originally said the Labial Frenectomy was scheduled for June 5th, but I had to change it to tomorrow May 16th. There was no way I could be in pain and attend my friend, Danielle's, bachelorette party in Myrtle Beach, S.C the weekend of June 7-9th. Right now I feel nervous, but excited at the same time. I'm nervous because I actually watched a video of the surgery on YouTube....BIG MISTAKE! Seeing what would occur during the surgery process was not a pretty site. I'll be placed under general anesthesia & will be woke during the surgery. According to all of the reviews I've read the actual surgery doesn't take long at all about 20 - 30 minutes. It's an outpatient surgery so it shouldn't be major. However, if you could just imagine someone taking a laser and cutting the soft tissue in your mouth then you'd understand my concern for sure. Since it is soft tissue the healing process should be fairly quick around 2-3 weeks. The pain will be worth it in the end so I just have to "man" up and deal with it. Hey the way I look at is if I just get it over with now then I'll have straight teeth soon enough. Woot Woot!

I'll provide an update after my surgery...

Monique
Fromgaptogone :)

The Upcoming Frenectomy

On June 5th I must receive a frenectomy. The labial frenectomy attaches to the center of the upper lip and between the upper two front teeth. If I don't receive the surgery then my teeth will constantly try to come apart. I feel very nervous about the procedure however, it's necessary & I must stay on the path to rid myself of this issue. I've informed my family members of my decision to get invisalign and I've heard so many comments regarding why I don't need it. Hmmm yes I do. I need it for myself not to make anyone else happy but for my satisfaction. Well this was just a brief post to inform you of the next step in the process. 


FYI - this is not my teeth its just an example of the skin that will be cut/removed on June 5th.

Monique 
From gap to gone :)

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a series of clear, removable teeth aligners that both dentist and orthodontist use to shift the teeth into a new position. Invisalign can be used to correct issues such as: spacing, crowded teeth, cross bite, and under bites. The aligners are replaced on a biweekly basis. Tip I've heard the best time to change the trays is before going to bed that way you'll sleep through most of the tightness. I personally feel that this is truly a wonderful option against metal braces. I personally decided to go with invisalign because I'm 31 yrs old and didn't want metal in my mouth. I like the fact that I can eat what I want and not have to worry about food getting caught in my braces. Also, as I previously stated the thought of someone twisting and tightening metal in my mouth scares me to death. Something that i'm sure will annoy me about wearing invisalign is that every time you eat the aligners must be removed. After you finish eating your teeth must be brushed prior to putting the aligners back in. Dedication is key!  The benefit is it'll cut down on my snacking. In turn, I hope to see smaller digits on the scale (woot woot). 


In order to go this route as opposed to metal braces invisalign trays must be worn between 20 - 22 hours a day. Regarding insurance: Most providers cover invisalign the same way they would standard braces. Recently I've learned that invisalign express is available! This is for people who have minor corrections that can be completed under 6 months. The cost is a lot less than 3K. Due to the nature of my teeth issues i.e gaps between my teeth this wasn't an option for me. A regular dentist can treat you with invisalign. However, I chose to see an orthodontist. I felt more comfortable with a dentist that had the training for teeth movement. I'll do another post on my orthodontist once I receive his permission to do so. 

June 19th can't come soon enough for me. I'll keep you posted. 


Signed,Monique
From gap to gone :)

I've Decided To Get Invisalign!

My obsession with my teeth started a very long time ago. I've always felt insecure because of my smile. I have tooth size gap in between my 2 front teeth (Thanks Grandpa). This is a genetic trait that the majority of the my family members posses. The difference between theirs and mine is that mine is the largest! Both of my sisters inherited the trait however they have what I consider to be cute gaps (Anna Paquin size). My reason for wanting to rid myself from this unnecessary space in my mouth is not only a cosmetic purpose, but a self confidence purpose. I feel that having the gap is a hindrance in various ways. For example, it can be a unwanted distraction at times i.e job interviews, first meetings. I feel that I have to work harder at times especially when I first meet someone. That person generally is looking at my mouth as I'm talking (I hate this!). I feel prejudged as a result.

When I was younger I would hear guys say, "o she's cute for someone with a gap". Now my husband on the other hand loves me gap tooth and all. He's actually against me starting this treatment. However, ultimately the decision is mine and I'm speed rolling this thing. I knew I didn't want traditional metal braces. Although, they are effective the thought of someone twisting and tightening metal in my mouth scares the crap out of me! I've done a tremendous amount of research and found invisalign (Angels singing) I knew this was perfect for me. I've done so much research on the product I feel like I should be selling them! After 2 price quotes I decided to go with Sal Zammitti (office link below), plus I had purchased a living social deal, which gave me $1,000 off treatment and free Xrays. The price with the discount is $4650 this price includes a frecnectomy, which I must have in order for my teeth to remain closed after completion of my treatment. This cost also includes up to 3 refinement treatment plans.

Today I went and had my impressions done and paid the down payment of $1650. This puts my monthly payments at $169. My plan is to make payments through December of this year and pay them off in January with my FSA card. I've heard people complain that receiving the impressions is painful,but it didn't hurt at all. The finished trays will arrive in 6-8 weeks. I'm truly excited to see improvement in my smile! Stick with me and I'll keep you posted.

Signed,
Monique
From gap to gone :)

This is what my teeth look like now

http://www.charlottebraces.com/meet-the-orthodontist.php