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Summary:
In this heartfelt episode of the SmileLine Podcast, host Chris Schnieders sits down with patient Sarah Springer Reed to share her transformative journey from struggling with missing and failing teeth to achieving a full mouth restoration through SmileLine’s full arch dental implant procedure. Sarah opens up about the emotional and physical toll of her dental issues, the consultations that led her to SmileLine, and the life-changing decision to undergo full dental replacement. She candidly recounts her surgical experience, recovery challenges, and the gradual adjustment period—all of which culminated in a renewed confidence and a natural, radiant smile. This episode offers an inspiring and educational look at the profound impact that quality dental care can have on a patient’s life.
Transcript:
Chris Schnieders: Welcome to the SmileLine Podcast! We’re here to share real stories from patients and doctors about the SmileLine prosthetic and the process behind it. I’m here today with our patient, Sarah Springer Reed, who just had her 90-day follow-up. Sarah, thanks for being here!
Sarah Springer Reed: Thank you for having me! I’m from Columbia, Missouri, married with two kids—ages 10 and 12. I made the drive down here after doing a lot of research. You guys were the best I found.
Chris Schnieders: That’s great to hear. What other options did you explore?
Sarah: I went to Cherry Hill Dental and a local dentist for single implant consultations, but the price tags were overwhelming. At first, I was just going to live with my remaining teeth, but things got worse. My parents encouraged me to take care of it while I had time between jobs.
Chris Schnieders: I’m glad you found us. What was your consult experience like?
Sarah: It was fantastic. My dad and I met with Chris. He explained everything—how the full arch implants work and how they’re more efficient than single implants. It opened my eyes to better long-term options.
Chris Schnieders: That’s a common story. Dr. Sam often says instead of treating teeth one by one, we need to look at the whole mouth to solve the bigger issue. I’m glad we could help you make that decision.
Sarah: Yes, it was a big decision, but it was absolutely life-changing.
Chris Schnieders: What was the surgery process like with Dr. Maddie?
Sarah: Pre-surgery communication was amazing. Sheila kept in touch about medications and prep instructions. The surgery itself was tough but manageable. The week after surgery was rough—I swelled up, had two black eyes, chipmunk cheeks—but Dr. Sam reassured us it was normal for about 20% of patients.
Chris Schnieders: What helped you the most during recovery?
Sarah: A cold compress from Walmart and salt water rinses were lifesavers. Surprisingly, those helped more than medication. I highly recommend both to other patients.
Chris Schnieders: How was eating in those early days?
Sarah: Soft foods only—milkshakes, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese. I wasn’t super hungry and was nervous about chewing. But the bonus was getting to enjoy ice cream guilt-free!
Chris Schnieders: And over time?
Sarah: Now the implants feel like my real teeth. There was definitely a learning curve—with speaking, eating, and cleaning—but after a couple of months, they feel like a natural part of me.
Chris Schnieders: You mentioned loving to smile. How has that changed?
Sarah: Oh, completely. Before, I was embarrassed by my smile. Now I’m proud. My husband even noticed the difference. He said I looked beautiful before—but this transformation really made an impact. I get tons of compliments now!
Chris Schnieders: You also marked your chewing ability as a 4 or 5 out of 10 before. How is it now?
Sarah: Night and day. I can eat anything again—even carrots and potato chips. No more favoring one side of my mouth. It’s incredible.
Chris Schnieders: Any advice for those considering full dental replacement?
Sarah: Yes—just do it. Healing can be rough at first, but it’s absolutely worth it. Get that long cold compress, rinse with salt water, and follow instructions. Now that I’m on the other side, I wouldn’t change a thing. It’s truly life-changing.
Chris Schnieders: Thank you, Sarah, and Happy Holidays to your family!
Sarah: Thank you, same to you!
Thank you for listening to this episode of the SmileLine Podcast. If you’re ready to elevate your confidence and love your smile again, visit SmileLineDesign.com to schedule your consultation.