I’m 70 and also dealing with a similar situation due to gastrointestinal issues causing severe decay. I have had the right upper top removed awake with novocaine. I did feel lots of pressure but no pain. He left one tooth to connect an Essix bridge which is streaky used for esthetic looks only.

I need my entire top removed but I’m doing as needed in 4 extraction increments. Yes, my next section will be top left and that’s it for smiling. I’m doing it this way because I’m healing very slowly. I don’t feel I can do it at once and have an upper denture inserted immediately.

I have had two consults for inplants and both say with bone loss, I’m not a candidate for inplants. I was not considering my entire top due to cost. I was considering the new upper denture secured with 4 inplants, still quite costly.
I’m going old school dentures. At my age and health issues I will make this work. I don’t feel feel that I will be in hiding for a few weeks to heal once I have the front done. I hate it all, but who wouldn’t.