Janet,
That is very sad about your teeth. What is the cause if you don't mind me asking?
You dog's health is another blow that is always hard to take, I can empathize with that, I've had a few furry friends that have brought much joy to my life, but as life is impermanent, have moved on.
I have always been willing to bring  another one in when the time was right, so don't shut out that possibility. They have so much love to give and they are always willing to lend a sympathetic ear.
My guess is that the fact that you are finding it hard to tell those close to you what you are going through is that you are concerned about how they will respond.
My feelings on that is not to worry about it.
Of course you may be surprised by the reactions that you receive from those around you, but you will never know until you tell them.
Some will not have a clue as to how to respond or what to say and they may be quite uncomfortable with that. That is their problem not yours.
Others, and maybe some you never expected it from, will be incredibly supportive and helpful in so many ways, don't sell them short.
Give them the opportunity to rise to the occasion and you may be pleasantly surprised.
I've done this myself, and a few people have left my life and more than a few have come into my life. It was worth the risk ten times over.
As for going through the dark, well, that is also a part of the life process. Embrace it as best you can, accept it for what it can teach you and keep moving forward, every step brings you one step closer to the life you want and deserve.
Be brave, be strong and don't worry, you aren't alone.
Mike

Janet,
Sending you thoughts of empowerment and courage. I'd like to recommend you consider getting a second opinion about your teeth and I'd also recommend you visit the website of a phenonemal dentist and view  his philosophy.  He may be able to help you or connect you  with someone that has a solution...every problem has a solution.  Visit www.martinsmiles.com I've seen him do "radical smiles"
Blessings,
Sharmaine

Janet,
Please acknowledge your strength in stepping forward and sharing on this forum.  Sometimes sharing is difficult but, as Teresa said, it can be a gift to others. 
At times when we reach out to another for support, we find that it was perfectly designed that we share with that particular person.  My own experience in sharing is that it often resonates with the other person and we both benefit from the experience.   Don't hold back....open your heart....and share your gifts.
Remember - You are never alone.
Leona

Thank you for all of your support!
I just came back from the dentist this morning, and much to his excitement--and he can not explain why, three of my teeth will not be extracted. The Dental Hygenist also gave me a new prognosis of 20 years for my existing teeth. So things have started to look up within the mess that I am attempting to clean up.
I know that the reason why things are brighter, is due to the collective heart and all the energy that people have sent my way. Things have definitely taken a turn for the better, and I just have to continue on my course of changing my diet and taking responsibility for me.
Thank you all again for sending me the love and encouragement, we have healed parts of my mouth that had been written off! Collective heart indeed!
Love
Janet

Dear Janet,

I am so happy to hear your good news.  I'm glad you have a dentist who isn't one to go ahead with his original plan just because he didn't want to appear to be wrong.  So much ego in the medical profession sometimes!  I'm going to say a prayer of thanks for him, too.  :-)

Blessings,
Cat

All of my surgery is done! Just wanted to let everyone know. I feel fine right now--the freezing is slowly coming out. Use of my tongue will be welcome!
Thanks again everyone, I had a great visit with the dentist and there was no need to stay with myself, I was confident and ended up hugging the dentist.
AAAH on to bigger and better things.
Janet