23 Extractions and Zero Regrets: How I Reclaimed My Smile

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  • February 23, 2026

Let’s Be Real

Dental work doesn’t last forever. For those of us who grew up with “horror story” dental care, the cycle of patches, pulls, and procedures eventually hits a breaking point. My teeth simply weren’t going to outlive me.

If you’re hiding your smile or drowning in dental jargon, listen up. This is how I moved past 23 extractions and a botched implant attempt to finally get my life back.


The Breaking Point: Losing 23 Teeth

My childhood dental care was a disaster, leading to a “patchwork” adult smile that was failing fast. Two years ago, I stopped fighting a losing battle. I had 23 teeth extracted in a single February.


  • The Denture Phase: I started with temporary dentures. To my surprise? They were great. No issues, smooth sailing.
  • The Upgrade: Even though dentures worked, I wanted my “real” teeth back. I wanted the security of implants.

The “Mini” Implant Trap

About a year ago, I went down the mini-implant rabbit hole. The plan? Fixed, cemented bridges. The reality? A nightmare.


  • Hygiene Disaster: Cemented bridges on mini implants are a maintenance trap.
  • Trust Breakdown: Mid-process, I realized I didn’t trust the provider or the product. I was being sold a “quick fix” that wasn’t built to last.
  • The Pivot: I walked away. I refused to settle for low-quality care, even if it meant starting over.


The Comeback: My “Forever” Smile

Throughout my failed implant journey, one person stayed in my corner: Dr. Kendall. Even when he wasn’t my doctor, he was giving me the resources and the “real talk” I needed to advocate for myself.

When the mini-implants inevitably failed—just like he warned—he was there to help me rebuild. Today? I have my smile back. I’m not just “fine”; I’m ecstatic.


Ending the Dental Stigma

There’s a whole world of people struggling with oral health who are too embarrassed to even walk into a clinic. They’re afraid of being judged by “professionals” who think they know better.


  • Taking your teeth out doesn’t make you less of a person.
  • Dentures or implants don’t make you less desirable.
  • Your worth is not tied to your biological teeth.

The Bottom Line

Dental struggles are a marathon, not a sprint. Whether you’re wearing a temporary plate or eyeing full-mouth reconstruction, don’t let embarrassment keep you in the dark.

Stop settling for a smile you hate. Do your research, find a provider who actually holds your hand through the process, and take your power back.


Your Next Step

Instead of paying hundreds of dollars like many other offices charge just to get started, you can receive a comprehensive, risk-free Ultimate Smile Assessment at no cost to you at Texas Sedation Dental & Implant Center. It’s their way of helping you explore your options with confidence and without any financial pressure!


Take the first step toward the smile you deserve. Contact their office today or schedule your complimentary Ultimate Smile Assessment now!


Longview, Texas Office: 📍3665 US-259, Longview, Texas 75605📞 (903) 704-0154

Tyler, Texas Office: 📍1520 Rice Rd Ste 100, Tyler, Texas 75703📞 (903) 231-6490



Check out Sammy’s video on Texas Sedation Dental & Implant Center’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DSLLjZ-gX3F/


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