Help Thomas Get his smile and confidence back.

My name is Thomas. I live in central Ohio. I am a father of 2 wonderful kids, ages 8 and 10. I have been happily married to my love for 20 beautiful years. Here is my story.

I was born with craniosynostosis. It means my head was prematurely closed as an infant, so my head would no longer grow as I did. I have had two full open vault cranial surgeries with this condition to fix the issue. Along with the cranial stenosis, I also have Saethre-chotzen syndrome. Saethre-Chotzen syndrome is a genetic condition characterized by the premature fusion of certain skull bones (craniosynostosis). This early fusion prevents the skull from growing normally and affects the shape of the head and face.

Along with these conditions, I have struggled with keeping up with my appearance. Most importantly, my smile. My teeth were very brittle as I got older, especially after puberty. Most of my teeth would break very easily, leading to early decay, infections, and pain from exposed nerves. Eventually all my teeth were pulled.. This was a tough decision, but it has now physically kept me out of pain.

A set of dentures was made but due to the form of my upper palate, dentures will not suffice in my situation. Even having a new set made will not correct the problem.

I have recently spoken with my dental team, and it has been determined that the only way to get my smile back and my mental health would be implants. However, dental and medical insurance will provide no help with getting the implants. They are asking for $10k and up to $30k out of pocket. Yes!!! This is the actual number to have the implants done.

I need to get my smile back. Due to my dental features, I have been battling depression for the past 20 years. I have been through the wringer with pain and suffering. With the new implants, I can get back my life. Due to my appearance, I've lost out on so many activities, time with my children, loss of promotions, and much more. Please help out if you can. I have a long way to go and no other resources to get to my place of happiness.

I currently work as both a custodian and a fuel clerk. I'm a very hard worker, working over 70 hours per week. As a school custodian, the wonderful kids have asked me many times why I don't have any teeth. I kind of grin and change the conversation. I have also been picked on by adults who will rag on me. There have been many times I have gotten comments about being a drug user. This is not ok with me. I am currently in therapy to help with my mental state for this matter and others.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. I hope you will find it in your heart to provide a little help to make my life a lot better.