Tag Archives: can’t afford dentist

Affordable Dentistry

I need help

I joined a club at school that my dad told me not to.  Something happened while I was there and I ended up getting a front tooth knocked out.  When I went home and explained to my dad what happened, he said that he doesn’t have money for the dentist. I disobeyed so the tooth is my problem.  I’m only twelve and don’t have a way of making enough money for the dentist.  I have about $7 I made in babysitting, but that is it.  What do I do? I don’t want to live my life with one of my front teeth missing. I’m so ugly. It’s too embarassing.

Bella K. – Oregon

Bella,

I’m very sorry for what you’re going through.  I want you to know that even though you feel ugly because one of your teeth is missing, that doesn’t mean you are ugly.

Let’s try to get you some help.  Because you’re a minor, one of your parents will need to consent to treatment.  There’s good news too.  Dentists become dentists because they like helping people.  I bet if you called around and explained your sitution, there will be at least one willing to work with you to get treatment.

I’d start by doing a Google search for affordable dentist. Then talk with them until you find one you’re comfortable with.

There are levels of treatment. Maybe at first, you can get a temporary treatment like a removable partial denture until you can afford one the better (but priceier) treatments.

This blog is brought to you by Gilbert Dentist Dr. Matt Roper.

Dental Emergency

Can’t afford a dentist and now I have an emergency

I haven’t been able to afford a dentist in a while. Now I’ve got a loose tooth. I don’t recall getting hit, but it worries me that this tooth might fall out. What do I do?

Drew O. – Cleveland

Drew,

I’m sorry for the situation you’re in. I have a strong suspicion that your tooth is loose because of gum disease. If you don’t have tooth trauma, but have loose teeth, your gums are often the culprit.

I’m assuming you don’t have a dentist, however you need to get this looked at as soon as possible.

There are emergency dentists who will see you and understand your financial situation. Some of them have interest free payment plans. Others will just charge you what you can afford.

The key is to be honest with them. But, don’t put this off. This won’t be the only tooth you’ll lose.

This blog is brought to you by Gilbert Dentist Dr. Matt Roper.