UPDATE

Hello All,

I'm currently at the end of my second round of refinements. I'm unsure if I'll have to go through another round of treatment or not {Hopefully not}. My appointment is this upcoming week so we shall see. I'm absolutely thrilled with the results. The next step for me will be getting a bonded retainer put on as well as having some gum contouring. The reason for the contouring is because my gums swelled due to my gap being so large initially. It was simply a lot of space to close. Dr. Z & I anticipated that the swelling would occur so it didn't shock me when I noticed the tissue puffing up. I'll have more information regarding when the gum surgery will occur after my next appointment. I know that it'll be after I'm completely finished with my Invisalign treatment.

For anyone considering Invisalign I say DO IT!

3/8/14 

It's Gone

I know it's been a while since I updated the blog, but life has had me super busy. On top of taking care of my husband and children I completed my Masters - I'm now finished. Thank GOD!

Now getting to the reason why you visited this blog. I've completed my first set of 25 trays and I can proudly proclaim that the GAP is GONE! I look at my teeth all the time and all I can do is smile.

I've also been doing random things that I couldn't do before. Now before I tell you let me just say - Don't Jude Me! :)  

1. I can bite my nails without feeling space.

2. Run my tongue across my teeth without a lapse from one tooth to the next

3. Bite into food without seeing a gap impression. 

Back to Business 

Although, my gap is gone I have 16 upper refinement trays and 9 lowers. Additional trays were necessary because my bite is off. Am I disappointed about wearing Invisalign for 8 additional months? Heck No. You have to remember I've only been wearing Invisalign braces for 1 year. I'd gladly recommend Invisalign to anyone considering it. I'm proof that it works.

What Invisalign did for me in this short time frame is nothing short of amazing. I'm not just referring to my actual teeth. I mean my confidence as well. I've noticed that I smile all the time. I've opened myself up to more people. Although, I wasn't a shy person before I was hesitant about meeting new people and stepping outside my comfort zone. I no longer care if people stare at my teeth while I speak because I have no reservations about them. 

Side Note:

At the end of my treatment I'll be having gum contouring surgery. As a result of the space that was closed my gums swelled which myself and Dr. Zammitti was expecting. It'll be a simple in office surgery with a laser... Nothing major.

Referral: If you're in the Charlotte, NC area I highly recommend the office Dr. Sal Zammitti. He is very professional. I think he's a man of few words, but he's honest and won't tell you what you want to hear. For example, when I didn't want the frenectomy he flat out told me it was necessary and explained why. His honesty and excellent credentials (Harvard School for Dental Medicine, PHD from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine) were the reasons why I decided to go through treatment with his office. I truly feel that he has my best interest in mind when making suggestions. I can also tell he's a bit of a perfectionist which is a plus if you're working on changing something that everyone can see - your teeth! Again, if you're in the Charlotte area go check him out (info below). 

10040 Edison Square Drive
Concord, NC 28027

Phone: (704) 464-3279

http://www.charlottebraces.com/

 

Tray 22

One step closer to the finish line!

Tray 22

Tray 20 & 21

I can't believe I'm nearing the end of this journey. I know their will be refinements however I have my final tray in my possession and BOY does it feel awesome! I'm currently on Tray 21. 4 more to go WOO HOO!

Tray 20

Tray 21

Tray 17 - 19

Still Shrinking. 6 more trays left!

           Tray 19

 

Tray 19

Tray 18

Tray 17

Tray 16

It's been a while I know.. Sorry! Well here goes Tray 12 - 15 went smoothly. I am having alot of swelling along the gum line above the gap. This was to be expected since there was so much space to close. I decided that I was going to ask Dr. Zammitti about it at my next appointment, which was January 14th.

During my visit he expressed his pleasure in how my teeth were coming along & checked to see if the recommended IPR on my lower teeth would be necessary. He decided that it wasn't because I still had minor space. I asked about the swelling gum tissue and he stated that he can laser the area once I finish treatment. I'm completely game for that. I've put way to much money into having a "nice smile" to deal with swollen gum tissue. The goal of invisalign was for me to have the smile that I want and swollen gums are not in that equation.

I put on Tray 16 and all I can say is WOW what a difference between Tray 1 and now. It's an amazing feeling knowing that tray 19 is the LAST tray for my bottom teeth. Woo Hoo! There is another massive difference between tray 16 and 20. I'm almost at the end of this life long journey & I can't wait. I still stick by my previous statement which was purchasing invisalign was one of the best decisions that I've ever made.

                                                                      Tray 16

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!