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You know, my husband has really bad teeth. THey are soft and there's no more enamel to protect them.

Last time he went to the dentist, our cost after insurance was over $8000. He needed (and still needs) like 19 crowns, 5-6 implants, lots of caps, fillings, etc.

We'll get just enough money to start doing things, but then won't have enough to finish. Like he got 4 root canals (on the same day) and when it was time to go back in and have tem packed, etc, it was too late and he had to have them all pulled (and they were all back molars which will now have to be implants.

I feel so bad for him because I know it affects his self esteem. He can't smile because he's missing one front tooth and the other is almost rotted away (it's paper thin).

But we can't afford getting the work done and he doesn't have insurance. Even with insurance, it doesn't cover a lot.

It makes me mad that you can go in for medical services and they will most likely bill you. But if you have a dental problem, and one that could seriously infect you and/or cause health problems, they want payment at time of service.

Ugh....I'm tempted to apply for Extreme Make over for him...

That's really rough. My friend has a similar problem. She keeps a standing order for pain meds, so when she knows a root canal is in her future, she can take care of the pain until the dentist will see her. Something genetic, I think.

I really feel for him. At least he has you to keep him smiling.

Have you thought of contacting a dental school and seeing if you can get him in as a 'test' subject. Oh maybe one of your Dr.s can recommend 'oral surgery' that may be covered by insurance. I'm sure there is some way you can help him get his teeth worked on....

Seriously, his health and nutritional status are being compromised by his teeth. And like you said, his self-esteem is suffering too. I'll be thinking of you hun.

I just read this post.
I'm sorry to hear about all of this.

When I did some work with the homeless years ago - I was struck by how they could get medical care - but many of them couldn't eat because their teeth were so bad.

There was nowhere they could go to get dental care - nowhere the average American can go - without paying a mint for it. And, most insurance companies pay pennies on the dollar.

I wish you and hubby luck. I say - apply with that ex/mo show and see what happens!