Urgent Dental Surgery to Help Amanda Smile Again

My Journey with Arthritis and Dental Struggles

Hello, my name is Amanda and I’ve been living with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) since I was just 19 months old. Growing up, I faced constant doctor appointments, treatments, and challenges with this condition. Over the years, the medications I take for JIA, along with a rare medical issue causing excess calcium in my body, have made my teeth extremely fragile and brittle. Some of my front teeth have already broken off or fallen out, leaving me in daily pain and embarrassment.

For a long time, I’ve tried to manage the pain and hide my smile. Simple things like eating and speaking become painful when my teeth are crumbling. I make frequent trips to Cleveland Clinic for specialized treatment. Traveling for appointments is expensive and exhausting, but I’m determined to manage my health the best I can. Despite all of this, I try to stay positive and keep going every day.

The Dental Treatment I Need:

Recently, my dentist confirmed that all of my remaining top teeth need to be extracted to relieve the constant pain and infection. I also need one more tooth removed from the bottom. After these extractions, I will get a full upper denture and a partial lower denture. This treatment is not just cosmetic – it’s necessary for my health and comfort. I dream of the day when I can eat without pain and smile without feeling ashamed.

Here’s what the treatment plan looks like:

• Extraction of all upper teeth: This will stop the ongoing pain and prevent further infection (especially since my bones and teeth are so brittle).

• Extraction of one lower tooth: Removing this painful tooth will improve my ability to chew.

• Full upper denture: A set of replacement teeth for my upper jaw so I can speak and eat normally.

• Partial lower denture: To replace the missing bottom tooth and restore function on the lower jaw.

Why We Need Your Help:

The total cost of this urgent dental care is more than I can afford right now. At the Cleveland Clinic and dental specialists, the estimate for all these procedures and appliances is around $3,000 or more. Here’s a rough breakdown of the expenses:

• Extractions and oral surgery fees – $1,800 (approx.)

• Full upper denture – $1,000 (Estimated.)

• Partial lower denture – $800 (Estimated.)

• Travel and lodging for Cleveland Clinic appointments – $500+ (approx.)

I have done all I can to save up, but with my medical bills and travel costs to Cleveland, I’m falling short. I need at least $3,000 to cover the most essential parts of this treatment. Anything beyond that would help with medications and follow-up care.

A New Smile, A New Life:

Having a healthy smile will be life-changing. I know that after recovering from surgery and receiving the dentures, I will be able to:

• Eat a wider variety of foods without pain, improving my nutrition and overall health.

• Speak clearly and confidently, since I won’t have to worry about gaps or broken teeth.

• Smile freely in photos and at work without shame, which will boost my confidence and mental well-being.

• Focus on healing from my arthritis instead of this constant dental pain.

Right now, I feel stuck between pain and embarrassment. I dream of laughing with friends without feeling self-conscious. This treatment would give me a chance at that normal life.

How You Can Help:

If you can donate, even a small amount will bring me one step closer to a healthy, happy smile. Every contribution will directly fund my dental surgeries and dentures. If you’re unable to donate, simply sharing this page with others would mean the world to me.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for taking the time to read my story. I am so grateful for your support and kindness. With your help, I can overcome this hurdle and look forward to a brighter, pain-free future with a smile I’m proud of.

Thank you for helping me on this journey,

Amanda