![NYT | LS Jones](https://ifp.nyu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/1-53-1024x816.jpg)
NYT | LS Jones
Last summer, I learned that I needed major oral surgery, including having some teeth removed, bone grafts and implants. I’d dreaded the prospect for years, but it could no longer be postponed. Beyond fear of pain and temporary disfigurement from missing teeth, I had another major concern: I was addicted to heroin in my 20s. If the pain after the two scheduled procedures was severe enough, I might need to take opioids.