Valley woman wins a full dental implant restoration

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Life-changing is an understatement when it comes to the surprise Fresno Maxillofacial Surgery and Dental Implant Center gave for the holidays.

"I didn't want to get my hopes up so I came in here this morning not knowing what was going to happen," said Erlinda Vargas.

Surrounded by her loved ones and a room full of the practice's staff, Vargas was given a second chance.

"Just the other night I was having a panic attack. I just start crying in my room at night. I thought oh my gosh what's going to happen if my teeth fall out, like what am I going to do how am I going to pay for this," said Vargas.

The mother of three is the sole provider for her family so she could not afford the basic dental work she needed to properly eat, speak even smile.

"Yesterday I was eating ice cream with her and I started getting a bad toothache the pain goes down my face to my head it just my ear it just really takes a toll on me," said Vargas.

Vargas adds she even shies away from going out or company potlucks and birthdays.

"To be able to give back to a member of our community in that way is something that I think we're very proud privileged and honored to be a part of," said Dr. Ardy Kheradpir.

The Second Chance Program is living up to its name, out of 400 applicants Vargas was picked to receive a full arch implant restoration. A surgery that costs upwards of $25,000.

"She works hard at a local hospital so she's already giving back to our community. She's full of life and full of spirit that going to come forth in the future with her new teeth," said Dr. Shannon Barnhart.

"I just can't wait to see what the future holds for me," said Vargas.