Even during my poor days my wife and I always managed to find money to take care of our teeth. It’s a matter of priority. For some people, tattooing and cable television are more important than dentistry, so they give priority to tattooing and cable television.
During one's working years, it's important to take advantage of dental plan your company offers. I get two free checkups each year and I take full advantage of that. Every now and then I need some work that I pay a little out of pocket for. But it's worth it. I'll go into retirement with a decent set of teeth.
Also, stay away from sugar and soda pop!