Jennifer,

Welcome to the group. Having to face dentures at any age is devistating.
There are many social, emotional and physical hurdles you will have to jump to
get on with your life. It is quite normal to be having the emotions and fear you
are having. I had to face full upper and lower dentures at 35 years of age. I
had great teeth and gums going into my second pregnancy then things turned
really bad. Facing the prospect of losing my teeth was a major blow to my self
esteem but they turned out to be my salvation.
The quicker you come to terms with this change the quicker you will get on
the road to recovery. You need to think positive- maintain a positive outlook
accept this for what it is. Trust those close to you to help you and encourage
you, do not hide this from those people. Let me be there for you.
As far as pain, they will give you stuff to take- take it! You should follow
the post surgical instructions to the letter, rinse with warm salt water several
times a day and be sure to ask the dentist about access to them when you are in
severe pain- can you come in for an adjustment on short notice? The answer
better be YES!
You have to know that you will need time to heal from this, that it will take
time to re-train your mouth to do things you took for granted. It will all come
back, practice practice practice.
At first it seems like a huge mountain to climb but having the right attitude
and support at home will make it all worthwhile.
Dentures are not decided on by age but need, there is no shame in wearing
them. You took action to solve a problem and improve your health.
We are all here for you, ask us anything. Good luck

Sandy