My late mother had all her teeth out in the 70s, I believe. She and dad did this so that 'they'd have no more trouble with them'. I think she may have been in her 50s. I recall the miserable look on her face as she sat in her fireside chair looking literally down in the mouth. She must have regretted it but out of loyalty to dad never complained out loud. It must have been horrible.
I'm going through the implant process due to an accident. It's time consuming and requires commitment and is costly. The experience itself is unpleasant but not unbearable. If you're phobic about dentists though it would be a nightmare. As in the words of the old Dave Clark Five song, when it's finished, I'll be glad all over. Patience is required. Hope you get it sorted soon, Kitty.