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Jessica, a 34-year-old mother from Ohio, faced complete tooth loss, dentures and ultimately full mouth dental implants at such a young age. As Jessica would later discover, an autoimmune disorder known as Sjogren’s was causing dry mouth and leading to ramped tooth decay, which forced her to make tough decisions about her teeth. Her story is one of courage and determination. If you face challenges with your teeth and have some decisions to make, financial and otherwise, you will be encouraged by Jessica’s story.
Jessica Has Always Taken Good Care of Her Teeth
As a child, Jessica’s mother was diligent about taking he to the dentist office. Still, despite brushing regularly, she developed cavities at nearly every dental checkup.
“I was the kid who went to the dentist every six months—but every single time, I came out with a cavity. No one really asked why,” Jessica shared.
Over the years, Jessica underwent multiple root canals and crown placements, but the underlying issues were never fully addressed. The problems only worsened during her pregnancy in 2019, when hormonal and nutritional changes began to affect her teeth more aggressively.
By the time her son was born, Jessica found herself chipping or cracking teeth every few months. Eating hot or cold foods became painful, and eventually, even candy and chocolate triggered intense sensitivity.
After exhausting nearly every restorative dental treatment available, she found herself at a crossroads: continue down a painful and expensive path of failed treatment, or choose dentures.
When Dentures Fail, the Reality is Harsh
In 2024, Jessica made the difficult decision to have all of her remaining teeth extracted and to transition into full dentures. She had her remaining 19 teeth removed and was immediately fitted with healing dentures. What followed was far from the relief she had hoped for.
Jessica quickly realized that wearing dentures came with unexpected complications. They felt bulky and uncomfortable. Eating and speaking became major challenges. She couldn’t even swallow a pill without gagging.
The dry mouth associated with her autoimmune disorder, Sjögren’s syndrome, made the dentures nearly impossible to keep in place due to a lack of suction. Despite her best efforts—watching tutorials, trying adhesive tricks, and mustering daily determination—Jessica couldn’t adapt.
Most days, she avoided wearing her dentures altogether, choosing to go toothless in public. Her confidence plummeted. Smiling disappeared. Everyday joys like taking photos with her son became sources of anxiety.
The Health Risks of Poor Fitting Dentures and Processed Foods
Beyond the emotional toll, Jessica’s health began to suffer. Because she couldn’t chew properly, her diet shifted toward soft, highly processed foods like applesauce, pudding, and pasta.
Fresh vegetables, fruits, and proteins were off the menu since she couldn’t chew coarse foods. This change had immediate consequences. Jessica became severely anemic—more so than when she hemorrhaged during childbirth.
Her nutritional deficiencies intensified her autoimmune symptoms, particularly her burning mouth sensation. The inability to chew and digest properly meant even the limited nutrients she consumed weren’t fully absorbed.
“I felt like I had a hockey puck in my mouth,” Jessica recalled. “I couldn’t even swallow a pill without feeling like I was going to choke.”
Jessica realized her dentures weren’t just uncomfortable. Their lack of function were having a negative affect on her overall health.
Jessica’s Turning Point—Discovering Dental Implants
Realizing that dentures were not a sustainable option, Jessica began researching full mouth dental implants. She had heard of the All-on-4 procedure and other variations, but previously dismissed implants due to cost and fear of failure.
This time, armed with firsthand experience and a sense of urgency, she took a deeper dive. She learned the difference between four, five, or six implants per arch (commonly referred to as “All-on-X”).
“I just kept thinking—how am I going to live the rest of my life like this?,” Jessica recalled. “I had to find something that would actually work.”
Through her research, Jessica found an implant provider who answered her many questions about materials, healing time, and functionality. This made her feel informed and empowered.
Understanding Jessica’s Full Mouth Implant Procedure
Jessica underwent her implant surgery in November 2024 under general anesthesia. She slept through the surgery. Her temporary teeth were immediately attached to her implants.
While she experienced mild discomfort during recovery, it was very manageable. She followed a strict soft food diet and wore a night guard religiously. She took supplements, including beef organ capsules and vitamins, to support her healing.
Determined to protect her temporary bridge, Jessica avoided hard foods and stuck with nutrient-rich meals.
Six months is the period of time that she was advised the dental implants would need for complete healing. At the end of this six month period is when Jessica will receive her permanent set of prosthetic teeth.
From Dentures to Dental Implants: Life After Treatment
Once her implants were placed, everything changed. Jessica could smile again—with confidence. She could speak clearly, enjoy food, and chew without pain. She felt like herself again. Sandwiches, steak, and fresh vegetables returned to her plate.
“I ate a steak and bit into a sandwich for the first time in months. I could feel the food again—these teeth feel like my own,” Jessica shared. Even candy, once a painful indulgence, was now a guilt-free treat.
More importantly, her health improved. Nutrient-dense foods helped stabilize her autoimmune symptoms. Her anemia subsided. And unlike dentures, which covered the palate and dulled taste, dental implants restored her ability to fully experience food.
Emotionally and socially, the change was profound. No longer worried about what others might think, Jessica re-engaged with life. Her story proves that full mouth dental implants aren’t just cosmetic—they’re transformative.
How Jessica Made Dental Implants Affordable
One of Jessica’s biggest concerns was how to pay for her treatment. Like many, she assumed implants were out of reach financially. But through patient financing, she found a solution.
Her implant provider introduced her to third-party financing companies offering extended plans. Jessica secured a 12-year payment plan with low monthly payments—an option that worked within her single-mom budget.
“I’m not wealthy. I financed everything—and I had to ask family for help,” Jessica shared. “But this was more important to me than buying a car, because this is about my health, my confidence, and my ability to live a normal life.”
Patient financing opened the door for Jessica to receive the care she needed without delay. It also allowed her to avoid spending more money in the long run by skipping the denture phase entirely.
What She Wishes She Knew Before Choosing Dentures
Looking back, Jessica says she would have chosen full mouth dental implants from the start. The cost of extractions, temporary dentures, and months of discomfort added up—both financially and emotionally.
She urges others to ask the right questions. What are the long-term consequences of dentures? Will dry mouth be a factor? How much bone loss can occur if I wait?
Her biggest piece of advice? Do your research and be your own advocate.
Advice for Anyone Facing Tooth Loss or Denture Struggles
Jessica’s story is a powerful reminder that everyone’s dental journey is different. Some may adapt to dentures, but others—especially those with dry mouth or autoimmune disorders—may not.
If you’re facing tooth loss or struggling with dentures, know that you have options. Full mouth dental implants, including All-on-4 or All-on-6 approaches, are increasingly accessible.
Dental implants offer life-changing benefits and can restore function, nutrition, and confidence. Don’t let embarrassment or finances hold you back from exploring your options.
Thinking About Full Mouth Dental Implants?
If Jessica’s journey resonates with you, start by learning more about full mouth dental implant treatment. Ask your dentist about implant options. Get a second opinion. Research providers near you with a track record of success.
And most importantly, explore patient financing options. Companies now offer extended payment plans with low monthly costs. Whether you’re considering All-on-4 or a more customized implant solution, there are paths forward.
Continue to visit PayingForDentalImplants.com to discover resources and patient experiences as you navigate your own journey.
Like Jessica, you deserve teeth that function well and look great. Your overall health and confidence depends on it.
References
NIH, Sjögren’s Disease, Last Reviewed: June 2024
