April 25, 2025
by Maren Elise Roth

I’ve got several cavities that are way past the point of saving. Like, root canal? Nah. We’re talking full-on extractions or implants. And the cost? Absolutely brutal. I’ve looked into it. Even the “affordable” clinics still charge hundreds—sometimes thousands—per tooth. I don’t know how I’m supposed to swing that kind of money when I’m barely scraping by as it is.

I’m not someone who usually asks for help. I work hard. I make do. But lately, I’ve been thinking of doing something I never thought I’d seriously consider: sugar babying. I’ve seen people talk about it online—how they fund their tuition, pay off debt, live a little softer. It’s tempting. Really tempting.

I’m not a model or anything, but I guess I’d say I’m decently attractive. I clean up well. I know how to hold a conversation. But here’s the thing that stops me every time I get close to actually making a profile: my teeth.

They don’t hurt all the time yet, but I know it’s only a matter of time before that changes. I try not to smile too wide. I’ve started covering my mouth when I laugh. And I keep thinking—if someone met me in person, would they be completely turned off? Would they feel tricked?

It’s weird, feeling like something as basic as your dental health could be the thing that ruins your chance at opportunity, even something unconventional like this. But it’s also just the reality I’m living in. It’s embarrassing. Not because I didn’t care—but because I couldn’t afford to care in time.

I don’t know what to do. I want to fix things, and I’m running out of options. I just wonder if anyone else has been in this kind of situation—where your body or your health makes you feel like you can’t even try to improve your life.

Would anyone even look past the smile?