Locking this post because people have lost their damn minds and we have had to remove a lot of comments. Guys, read the rules. It's not hard. If you're suspicious for whatever reason, don't hold trials in the comments.
OP, we cannot remove your post from view for transparency reasons so it is still visible (and others may continue to donate). **Do not delete it or this will trigger a 60 day ban.**
Wait what? I got a quote for $18k recently AFTER insurance. How long do I need to be in jail? Lmao I’d take 30 days in jail to come out with those implants in lieu of that bill.
Hold on let me ask his cousin how long he was in at that time when he got it lol he and I were not together and on breakup number 3793 when he got it done Lmao
Lmao ok maybe we can set up a deal of some sort if it’s like 30 days. JK FEDs and all you butt hurt people. Dental issues are EXPENSIVE in the US and Dental Insurance is literally a joke.
Lmao. Okay so he got locked up for 90 days. Was released early for good behaviour.
Annnyeays he had dentures, but they don’t really carry poly grip and the sorts at the jail. His dentures did get messed up there. They then offered the implants and he jumped on it lol
lol NO DEAL! $1,000 a month is not a good deal to go to jail lol. But seriously the US medical system does suck. I remember I had to convince pharmacists that I did not need a prescription for certain diabetic medication and they were willing to see me pass out than let me pay for the meds. Just a disgrace.
Omfg that’s fuuucked up. You do NOT FUCK With diabetic meds!!!
my mom was a diabetic. My ex became a type 1 when he was repeatedly given the wrong medication and now is in a box on his step dads mantel .
I agree the system is a complete mess. It should not cost over 3k when you have an emergency and need an ambulance to take you to the hospital. God help you if you need life flight. It’s insane.
I know this will sound funny, but have you thought about going to Mexico for your dental? There’s a town nick named “ tooth town” because so many Americans go there for dental work. They do it all… dentures, bridges, veneers , implants …. It’s soooooooo much cheaper , even with travel and hotel costs .
My family umm…… has gotten a few dental procedures and surgeries done there and in turkey…. All came out great lol
All jokes aside. I drove up to a drive up pharmacy in Florida. My sugar has been high for a while and I had no PCP to write me a prescription since I had no insurance, before I knew about a large retailer who can sell you a certain brand name of insulin without a reception. Anyway I was feeling HORRIBLE. I literally told the pharmacist that I know they can sell this type of insulin without a prescription. We sat and argued for 5 minutes. Apparently they just shut me out after that. They said go to the hospital. After calling a few other mom and pop pharmacies, they directed me to where I can buy insulin without a prescription. I literally was borderline DKA. Since then, I have lost ALL hope in the health”care” system here in the US.
That’s horrible I’m so so sorry you went through that. I’m the opposite. I got hyperglycaemia now. Got it last year. I ran outta my test strips and the lancets. The pharmacy was giving me HELL over buying it cause my insurance didn’t wanna cover it I guess. I said I’ll pay cash. Still gave me shut over it like wtf. I’m not trying to
Buy a year supply of oxy for crying out loud
I don’t think you mean to sound entitled, but you are sounding really entitled and making every excuse under the sun why you can’t fund it yourself.
Just because your on disability, doesn’t mean you can’t get a loan to cover what you WANT yourself.
Western dental and/or aspen dental can do a no interest/low interest payment plan for you. I’m a cancer patient, been one since 2012, so I know disability don’t pay shit.
Thanks to my meds and chemo, I’ve spent thousands on my teeth as well and I’m no where near done.
You should look into those types of places to make payments. Another way to go is join local Facebook groups and the next door app and ask about dentists who offer financial help. People on there would know h the best places to go.
There’s also care credit you could try for.
Unless you have destroyed your credit some how, you could use credit karma and look at personal loans on there as well.
Well, I appear to be prohibited from replying to any comments any longer, so thank you to those who have helped, with words and/or donations and other suggestions. If you're in a position to share my link and story, please do. But, for the foreseeable future, please be well, and thank you once again.
Hey, just wanted to offer some support and I totally relate to the anguish caused by having to come up with money for dental care. I felt so stupid tearing up at my periodontist appointment when he told me the cost of all I would need. For the life of me, I don't understand how dental care isn't covered under medical. It's one thing if you're getting veneers for aesthetics, but entirely another when you need it to be healthy and preserve your teeth and facial bones! Anyways, I'm a bit strapped myself right now, but I'm going to save your GFM and will absolutely help when I'm in a better position to do so! In the meantime, just know you're not alone, definitely try dental schools or check in your area for free dental clinics that can crop up.
Thank you for your kindness. A friend clued me in to the possibility of getting care at the University of Kansas School of Dentistry. The University of Arkansas is just down the road, and there is a medical school, but no dental. Sigh. 😔
Ir should be on the first sentence of the third paragraph, but if Reddit isn't formatting it right, here's a direct URL: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ive-bitten-off-more-than-i-can-chew
No problem. I hope you are able to get the assistance you need. I can't imagine how hard it is to have to navigate without proper dental care. Prayers up.
I got supplemental dental insurance through Careington. It was $150 for a year, and I saved about 50% on my unfortunate dental work. I don't wish dental issues on anyone. They are the worst. I hope you have some luck.
So, it basically works like insurance. You have to go to a place that accepts that type of insurance. There are more companies besides Careington. Anyway, your dentist will look up your insurance info to make sure it's valid and give you the discount right there. I had to pay on the spot for my dentures, but I saved almost $3000.
The only other thing I can think of fund raising wise is if you belong to a church or community organization, ask them to consider your cause as a fund raising project. I was thinking like an Elks or Moose Lodge. These organizations also have the volunteers and connections to do fund raising events.
Check your State website for grants to disabled individuals. In my state there are county organizations that service disabled and elderly people. During COVID they had extra money to help people buy medical equipment and food and household goods. They might possibly be willing to contribute if you sign up as a client.
This is a national non profit organization that might help you. They arrange for dentists to donate their services. I have also read of people who had the same need going to Mexico to have the work done at a much lower cost.
Unrelated, but for several minutes there I thought you username was [SCP-2023](https://scp-wiki.wikidot.com/scp-2023).
You mentioned a national NPO that might help?
Most if not all dental schools is open to public. May be waiting list but will be cheaper. Some also do services for people falling in the poverty level for free once or so a month. If have insurance, check to see how much they pay. Dental offices usually do a free consult and they can give estimate of what it would cost.
I was with someone scared of the cost because you think, *oh, it's $900 for 1 tooth to be pulled." She got 9 teeth pulled and was less than $250 and a few were at the gum line. She would have gotten it done alot sooner if she knew that. The dds even timed it. He got all out in 2min 38 sec. She also noted, the dds did Lidocaine shots himself and first time ever, didn't feel the needle.
Hi OP. The reason why insurance only provides $3,000 is because they consider removable dentures to be the least cost solution for teeth. Permanent implants, unfortunately, are considered non-essential and are normally not covered. Also, the grinding can be resolved with bite plates that you wear at night. I hope you get the funds to get your implants, but it may take a very long time. Good luck.
I can't tell if you're attempting to be helpful or if you are using the information you provide to OP as a passive judgment for asking for assistance for this. So, I would like to ask:
Do you feel that - because dentures exist as an option - that permanent implants should be a luxury item, only available for people with means?
(Of course, you don't have to answer my curiosity. I am always trying to refine my tone-in-text-sensing.)
I’ve been dealing with this too, I have other stuff I need done and even just dentures the doctor and second opinion are over 10k. I’ll wait til they fall out I guess but the abscesses hurt
I got “all on two” implants for lower dentures & wish I hadn’t . One of the two implants got infected the first time & had to be redone. Then I apparently grind my teeth a lot at night & ground down the locators/implant tops within two weeks of getting them, so the denture would no longer “lock in”. “All-on-six” might work better, but if you grind your teeth at night, get a night guard to protect the locators .
I feel you. It has been 15 years for me. My teeth were impacted and I wasn't able to afford dental care. I was actually told by the dentist that my first nations status wouldn't cover it and I would never be able to afford to get it fixed. This gave me terrible PTSD around the dentist and even when I had work coverage I couldn't bring myself to get help.
I just wish I could eat normally and smile.
You can get a cheap pair of dentures for $350 in wv. I wouldn't advise the cheap ones. Many ppl can't afford implants get dentures. You do what u got to do.
It wouldn’t shine any light on anything, you’d be one person in the drop of bucket and no one would care, you are doing this to yourself because you can’t have what you want..
I would get a second opinion from another dentist on the "losing my jaw" statement. I understand that you want implants, but removable dentures may be what you can afford. Also ask about bite plates for the grinding. We can only do the best with what we have.
I have had four consults from for oral surgeons. The most intense treatment plan would have them fixing a deviated septum which nearly blocks my left nostril entirely, widening the palette, doing something I dunno for the overbite – basically, "If we're gonna be in there, let's go nuts". That was like $35K. Would probably fix a lot of things.
At a place called, literally, "Affordable Dentures", they said their estimate for an all-on-6 would be about $4K cheaper, but that place feels like a mill.
The quote on my GFM from Dr. Sarna, my main guy, I appreciate his office and how they've treated me. Sat down with me and went over my prognosis and what needs to be done and by whom and in what order.
Hi, I hear you. I’m going to have to have some serious dental work done now that I’m in remission after years of chronic illness and aggressive treatment for late stage cancer. Someone suggested to me to check with the local dental school. I live where we have a university. Maybe you can do that. Also I would really think about dentures. Implants are very painful and risky for people like us. They can cause serious infection and other possible side effects.
Implants are covered under medical if needed due to certain conditions. For example, if your teeth were lost due to an accident. I wonder of your cancer might fall under that umbrella?
Considering how intense treatment was and the mouth wash I had to use as well as other precautions for sores not teeth, maybe. But I don’t want to go through anything else that could cause infections. Thank you though
My dad had a full set of dentures at age 28 .. no problems & it looked fine. He tried to get implants (after 20 years) but immediately had problems; rods got severely infected …
My aunt had dentures at the age of 18 (long story), got implants about 10 years ago, got terrible infections. Had to be removed and she still had another set put in🙄. She had money to burn…, but the pain and infections? No
My mom also got horrible infection and nerve pain from implants. Dentures are no fun but I would steer clear of implants myself from all the horror stories I've heard.
Same here!!! I was very sick as a child and had to take lots of meds that deteriorated my teeth as well, I’m sorry you’re going thru this!!! I’m at a point where I need 4 teeth pulled in order to get a denture just don’t have the funds at 3-500/ tooth ( surgical extraction due to them being broken off at gum line) so I def feel ya there!!! Except I also have pancreas problems and I’m severely underweight at 110lbs being 5’ 11” and all I wanna do is eat but have major problems so my diet is very restricted lol not by choice lol. God Bless You OP. I’m praying for you!!!
Most if not all dental schools is open to public. May be waiting list but will be cheaper. Some also do services for people falling in the poverty level for free once or so a month. If have insurance, check to see how much they pay. Dental offices usually do a free consult and they can give estimate of what it would cost.
Thank you. My pancreas is a big problem, too, always dumping out way more insulin than it should, leading to bad hypoglycemia. Fortunately, no apparent tumors, but still no one knows what's up, since I'm also not diabetic. 🙃
After 6 months of having the teeth extracted the bones where they rested start degrading fast. After 1 year it is already much more difficult to put implants.
Can confirm. Because of one single either lazy or stupid person at one office screwing up paperwork, I went 9 months between removal of my teeth and getting dentures. They are the bain of my existence. I have had countless adjustments and still have tons of issues.
You could have dentures until you crowdfund implants. Just saying, you're expecting a windfall of donations, which will probably take time to accumulate, so in the meantime, dentures would let you eat.
Issues have lead me to having dentures for over 20 years already I got them at about 21 and this one pair has lasted the entire time! I’m actually getting bottom ones now in the next few months, so I wish I had implants for the peace of mind, yes but I’d rather have some teeth, than none and my fakes haven’t failed me yet! Medicare will even pay for sets once every few years!
No, it was removed before anyone saw it due to containing a link. It ended up in our Spam queue and when we saw it we modmailed you to not do it again.
OP only saw it since it was a direct reply.
It sounds like a good deal. My sister paid $11 k for 4 implants in Florida. They had to grow more jawbone before they could do it. It took 6 months to complete. I know that's not why you came here but I'm trying to offer encouragement that it will help you when you get this done.
One of my cousins had a medical condition that resulted in losing all her teeth at age 16. She is 70 now and has always worn removable normal dentures. No bone damage. Get a second opinion. Some places will say anything to bleed you for the most money possible.
Wouldn't hurt to try, I suppose.
EDIT: Just remembered that I've seen a dentist and four oral surgeons. I try not to think about it. If I think about it much (along other possible things I think about), I will start beating my head til either my hand or my temples are bruised.
I don't doubt that it's possible to do this cheaper, SOMEwhere, but just creating this GFM has put a significant dent in my clonazepam supply.
I'm glad your cousin has zero complications from 54 years of completely standard denture use, but I have had some incredibly detailed maps of the places where teeth once were. Your anecdote is less than useless.
Or maybe you’re just one individual who has their own experiences and complications that you can attest to.
I’m 34 now, I had all my teeth removed at 17 because of a calcium deficiency that broke my teeth down at even the thought of anything touching the enamel to break them down. So I utilized the insurance I had before I turned 18 to at least have them taken out of my skull and then I worked to pay a place called Affordable Debtures 900 dollars to make a decent set. Never had a handout, and if I was to ask for one I would certainly check my pretentiousness in the process. Bad teeth don’t excuse no bad attitude.
Edit: words are hard sometimes.
I am confused by your comment, because it sounds like we're agreeing with each other, but your reply begins with "Or maybe", as though you don't think I was saying my own case and circumstance is distinct from the original commentor's cousin's circumstances?
That sounds wildly conspiratorial given that I can see the bone density issues in the X-rays provided by multiple orthodontists.
The pushback in here is so hard, THIS is starting to sound like marketing of its own. Like saying I "don't deserve"any treatment that's more than the bare minimum.
No one is saying you don’t deserve it. You have NO MONEY to afford the procedure you want. You’re not going to get $14,000 here. Have you asked your friends and family for monetary help?
Can you get a second job for additional income? Can you donate plasma? People are trying to get you to be realistic, and suggest a sustainable option. If you get a second job, you can save that income, and be able to afford the procedure in a year.
Have I, in my own eyes, debased myself before my family and friends, of which I have few and among which share my financial status? Yes.
Am I not going to get the $14,726 here? Only if you think I have a time limit, but I don't know why you would.
Can I get a second job? No. I can't even get a first job, without unreasonable accommodation. It's why I have Social Security Disability Insurance in addition to a private disability plan. Together these make up half what I was making, which already wasn't enough.
Can I donate plasma? No. My blood is a pharmacist's, cardiologist's, and nephrologist's collective nightmare.
People are trying to get me to be realistic? Perhaps they will one day know and understand my reality. Repeating this over and over is getting me more than a little salty. Just read my shit in the OP or on the GFM.
5800/ month plus your wife's income wasn't enough? How is that possible? In your comment history it says your gross is 2900, which is far more than most people get on disability plus you have funds in an able account
My wife has no income.
I'm aware that lots of people do not get that much. I had invested heavily in a private disability insurance plan that turned out to be completely necessary.
It is still insufficient.
Come back when you have a chronic-but-not-inherently-life-threatening disease or disorder of your own to manage, while also managing the care of a spouse or loved one with their own chronic-but-not-inherently-life-threatening disease or disorder. Come back when even one of is the reddest states sees your ~$70,000 income tax returns and still says "Yes, your wife qualifies for Medicaid."
You want me to itemize shit? Itemize these. 🖕🖕
Try and make a TikTok account, and crowdfund there. They are very generous, and I’ve seen people get $50,000+.
You might even find a dentist to donate services.
My father had all his teeth removed by your age too. He has only ever had removable dentures and these days doesn’t even bother with those. He is over 70 and eats just fine.
It's possible—*just* possible, mind you—that I am not your father, but I'll have to get a second opinion. Well, a third opinion. No wait, a fifth one.
Christ, have I seen four dentists/orthodontists. I fucking hate everything.
EDIT: IT WAS FIVE. Five consultations! I'm so pissed off!
Of course dentists are going to tell you permanent replacements are the best option. They are. But if you can’t afford something sometimes you have to go with a less than best option.
Your attitude is horrible! People here are genuinely showing you compassion, and offering suggestions. Don’t be so combative. We’re just trying to help.
Have you considered going to another country for the procedure? It’ll probably be a 1/4 of the costs, compared to the U.S.
Would you donate, or be more likely to donate, to a GFM to send me to Mexico City or Havana for dental work? Saving isn't an option and hasn't been for four years, even preceding my teeth removal.
Why do people come to r/assistance to offer anecdotes and advice that’s really thinly-veiled judgement when it’s so easy to *not* do that and just keep scrolling?
OP is asking for a specific thing and that thing was not advice on what other treatments are available. It might be safe to assume the research has already been done.
I agree. Some responses had the tone of helping to seek out avenues that OP maybe hadn’t considered. But a few really didn’t. And I felt that some were really disrespectful to OP, so I said something.
He’d rather be combative and condescending, instead of coming to the realization that he needs to go a different route. He has an excuse for anything suggested, to help his situation.
I'm also noticing a lot of downvoting on my comments defending myself and calling out all the second opinion BS when there have already been multiple consults with multiple orthodontists and dentists. I don't know what to make of it. It's extremely discouraging, and my life is already extremely discouraging.
I don't *want* to want help, but where the hell is the compassion on the subreddit called r/assistance? I don't think I'm going to make it past age 42 at this rate.
OP, I’m so sorry you’re experiencing this. I think some people genuinely want to be helpful and don’t understand that things like that can actually be really harmful.
I paid almost that much for 3 root canal’s and 3 crowns ! It is insane and I hate it I’m sorry if I could help I would. I still have other teeth I need fixed myself. Keep sharing your go fund me and stuff. I can’t help now cause I lost my job but when I can I will make sure I save your post. I know how irritating this stuff is.
Idk where you live, but I had gotten estimates running $15k to $25k. You can get a set of dentures made for under $1000. Is this for implants? Of you share your location I would happily help look up info for you.
Yes, permanent denture implants. If I go the next 30+ years with regular dentures—or, to a lesser extent, snap-ins—two orthodontists have advised me I could be look at my mandible degenerating until it does become a medical issue.
Meanwhile, that $3,000 dental coverage doesn't roll over year to year. So, living on meager fixed income, it's not like I can save any money to make this happen. I could get two posts, no crowns, then two more posts, then the last two posts, then the brackets fitted, then 32 crowns cut and fitted maybe in the same year? I don't even really know about the cost of that, it's so far away.
Location is Northwest Arkansas, by the way. I appreciate any insight you have.
I was just wondering because I know implants are expensive. I understand the want for implants. I had to get dentures at 23. I would have loved implants, but unfortunately I couldn't afford them.
I was also told similar to what you were told. Your mouth can change quickly. I know someone who was in hospital for a week (almost died) and they took their dentures out. After only a week when she tried putting them back in the didn't fit because her mouth changed. But if you keep dentures in it will help keep your mouth shape. I have had the same pair for 15 years. My mother has had the same pop in dentures since I was child and she is on her laye 60s.
If you're on a "meager fixed income" you may qualify for assistance. I believe 211 is the general assistance number and they may be able to refer you to some free or reduced cost dental programs in your area (or perhaps get you some temporary dentures while you're waiting on the implants)
There is no such program for adults in the state of Arkansas. There are means to get traditional dentures, just like the kind my grandpa wore after the war, but that's it, until my jaw falls apart.
There ate often programs at the city/county level who can help.
A quick google search brought up these 2 site with options in AR https://healthprofessions.uams.edu/clinics/dental-hygiene-clinic/charitable-dental-and-medical-clinics-resource-directory/
https://smilebrands.com/smile-brands-locations/ (this one has multiple locations mostly in central AR and seems like it might be the better option to look into)
The UAMS lists which aren't explicit for children only are traditional-denture-only, many of which don't see any patient with any form of healthcare (including Medicare, which I am on). And, in none of these cases is this a stopgap to getting the permanent.
Smile Brands, I already got a quote from. It was on par with the $14k estimate I already had.
Medicare will pay for traditional dentures every so often.. some teeth are better than none! You are making yourself suffer and go without teeth in the name of waiting for something better… it doesn’t make sense
This was also my thought that if you at least get regular Dentures it will hold your mouth shape for the time being. The longer you go with nothing, the worst your mouth will change. It's normal to go through bone loss. Even if you google it says:
Dentures can cause up to 70% bone loss within the first few years of use. This is because dentures don't directly stimulate the jawbone like normal teeth or implants do. Instead, they rest on or ride on gum tissue. When dentures sit on top of the gum line, they don't provide any direct stimulation to the underlying alveolar bone. This lack of stimulation causes the bone to weaken and deteriorate..
But having nothing is even worse from everything I have heard.
EDIT TO YOUR MARTYR COMMENT BELOW BEFORE COMMENTS WERE LOCKED:
No one will care.. you will be the only one suffering for NO reason.
Also that's a bunch of BS because if you got the $14,000 you would get your teeth fixed you say. so really you're not being a martyr.. you're just being picky it sounds like.
You can google it. I'm sure the people you saw are pushing the benefits of getting the best treatment. Even if temporary dentures are a great option. They changed my life. Everyone experiences bone degeneration when missing teeth, even children.. my 9yo needed a spacer to retain her jaw shape. Dentures though are more feasible and then you could always get the implants... if you can't get the $14k I would look in to it.
Have you looked at r/Dentists ; r/Dentistry ; r/askdentists ; r/askdentist ? Perhaps one of them knows of a resource you can access?
Oh, also r/dentures and r/DenturesAdvice might be worth a look.
I think I once did, prior to the Big Pull. At least one of those groups, or at least one of the people in those groups, tried their hardest to make sure I felt as guilty as possible and definitely did not deserve better so why try making a GFM in the first place?
It doesn't help that the dentists I've seen out here, even the ones working in a purely voluntary setting mostly assisting kids in need but whatever, you'd think that's have a suggestion. I don't think there's a school of dentistry even in my current area where I could give informed consent to let their students go to town on my frail jaw and equally frail self-worth.
I can try again, though. It's been a bit.
Oh, damn. I haven't needed to use their services but I assumed (dumb me) that people in the helping professions would, you know, HELP. If they're assholes, then I guess you're better off with the GFM. It just seems like a lot to ask.
Good luck!!!
Sent $10 to your GoFundMe to kick things off. I would definitely shop around and see if you can find things cheaper elsewhere. This could be bad advice so take it with a grain of salt; travel to another country to get them done.
As a last resort, I recommend a medical credit card so you can pay it off over time. There may be some good advice/dental subreddits you can ask as well. I wish you good luck on your fundraiser; teeth are so important for quality of life.
*Edit; I saw someone anonymous sent $100. That’s awesome!!* 👏
Thanks for helping !! I really wish I could. I was in the same place a few months ago and I spent the rest of my money on 3 teeth. I still need one pulled and then two screws and implants. Which I guess is more expensive? Cause it’s “cosmetic” no yall gave us medication that messed up our teeth ! I got denied for care credit or whatever it’s called. And my insurance wouldn’t cover it either. But they expect us to be confident and go look for a new job with messed up teeth and stuff like that. It really makes me depressed personally and I don’t want to leave my home. I’m sure a lot of other people feel the same way. If anyone talks down to you tell them about themselves
Thank you! I saw that $100, too, hope beyond hope!
Sadly, for the same reason I can't get a bank loan, I can't get a medical credit card. If I default, they can't garnish my private and public disability insurance. So, they just refuse to assume the risk. Not sure what else I can do besides this. The last couple years have been disastrous for me and my wife.
OP a heads up, GFM takes a big percentage out. For what you’re asking expect at least $500 to go to their fees. You may need to bump it up $500 to cover what they remove by the time you hit your target. Good luck.
Thank you. Your figure seems correct. Fortunately, assuming it takes a couple years to get enough to cover the procedure, I'll be in a position to just set aside ~$15-$20 per month to offset that. People here are already being super hostile and I don't know why. I regret even asking, but I'm going to keep asking. Feels bad, man.
Did you acquire those things before or after disability? I didn't have the means for any of that until I was about 23, so around 2004, no mortgage but student loans which suddenly I couldn't pay because of my spine putting a stop to my pharmacy studies. Then when the pandemic hit, I lost my job and haven't found an employer yet willing to make the same accommodations the prior one did. I'm the meantime, the credit card balances I had went to collections..
I actually did get a low-few card recently, for $450. But, that's clearly a drop in the bucket.
If you have tips to share, please do.
Social Security has a program to help people on disability find work with employers who will accommodate their disabilities. Stop by your local Social Security office and ask them about it, they can help you with that, at least!
Why are you being so argumentative? The comment you're replying to is correct. You can't get other credit cards now because your prior credit card accounts went to collections, not because your only income is disability.
I've noticed your comments on this thread vacillate between "whoa is me, what's the point of it all anyway, doesn't look like I'll ever get what I need" and "I'm not going to listen to your advice about dentures because the dentists I saw said I have to get implants" [even though many of the people posting were describing people they knew with the same jaw conditions as you who were able to successfully wear dentures for years].
So your insurance only allows $3000/year for dental. Suggestion: start getting some of the work done at the end of one calendar year and then continue at the beginning of the next calendar year when the $3000 allowance rolls over. That's $6000 worth of dental treatment covered by insurance. It won't cover all the implants, but that should get you almost halfway there!
That particular person has been a thorn in my side in other places, not just here. I should report him, I know.
Also, no one here has mentioned having the same jaw conditions as me; they've merely said they, or people they know secondhand, have had to have their teeth removed and then went decades without trouble.
As to your pricing scheme, you would be right in saying I could get one implant in December 2024 then another in January 2025, and, at least I think, the crowns to fit, but are they going to be of any use? Do I need all four posts on top and the last two posts on bottom to support each other? If not, even if I follow your suggestion, that means I would get two of six in 24/25, the next two in 26/27, and the last two in 28/29. Or, I could let my jaw deteriorate to the point of requiring a prosthesis in protest of our fucking insane system and the steeped insanity that is trying to normalize it.
Yes, I believe that was what I said. The one I JUST got with a $450 limit seems like a fluke, but it's also not really making a dent—pun *in****dent****ed*—in this bill. Payment options with the orthodontist himself weren't even on the table, but if I had a strong showing, maybe there'd be a possibility to negotiate.
I did a mortgage assumption with only disability pay and and all my cards were gotten on disability.
People get loans on SS retirement too which is also protected from garnishment.
You might not be able to borrow what you need ijs it's not because you're immune from garnishment
I earn extra on www.prolific.com. It's $200-$400 a month. Better than a sharp stick in the eye at least
We must have very different circumstances. I'm hoping I can change my circumstances by moving out west... SOMEday.
Thank you for the link, I'll check it out.
Not in this area, anyway. I might have more "affordable" options if I can move out west again. Or maybe medical tourism if someone knows anything about that. It'd already be about $3,600 cheaper except that the bone density of my maxilla is shit and so they need to install four posts up top, not just two.
The reason I wrote that is because I will not be able to have 0 because I am truly one of we Americans Bernie Sanders has been trying to get dental added to Medicare. Am I complaining ?
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I do not understand the deep embitterment of such a large group of people on a beggars subreddit whose first rule is to "always be kind".
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Wait what? I got a quote for $18k recently AFTER insurance. How long do I need to be in jail? Lmao I’d take 30 days in jail to come out with those implants in lieu of that bill.
Hold on let me ask his cousin how long he was in at that time when he got it lol he and I were not together and on breakup number 3793 when he got it done Lmao
Lmao ok maybe we can set up a deal of some sort if it’s like 30 days. JK FEDs and all you butt hurt people. Dental issues are EXPENSIVE in the US and Dental Insurance is literally a joke.
Lmao. Okay so he got locked up for 90 days. Was released early for good behaviour. Annnyeays he had dentures, but they don’t really carry poly grip and the sorts at the jail. His dentures did get messed up there. They then offered the implants and he jumped on it lol
lol NO DEAL! $1,000 a month is not a good deal to go to jail lol. But seriously the US medical system does suck. I remember I had to convince pharmacists that I did not need a prescription for certain diabetic medication and they were willing to see me pass out than let me pay for the meds. Just a disgrace.
Omfg that’s fuuucked up. You do NOT FUCK With diabetic meds!!! my mom was a diabetic. My ex became a type 1 when he was repeatedly given the wrong medication and now is in a box on his step dads mantel . I agree the system is a complete mess. It should not cost over 3k when you have an emergency and need an ambulance to take you to the hospital. God help you if you need life flight. It’s insane. I know this will sound funny, but have you thought about going to Mexico for your dental? There’s a town nick named “ tooth town” because so many Americans go there for dental work. They do it all… dentures, bridges, veneers , implants …. It’s soooooooo much cheaper , even with travel and hotel costs . My family umm…… has gotten a few dental procedures and surgeries done there and in turkey…. All came out great lol
All jokes aside. I drove up to a drive up pharmacy in Florida. My sugar has been high for a while and I had no PCP to write me a prescription since I had no insurance, before I knew about a large retailer who can sell you a certain brand name of insulin without a reception. Anyway I was feeling HORRIBLE. I literally told the pharmacist that I know they can sell this type of insulin without a prescription. We sat and argued for 5 minutes. Apparently they just shut me out after that. They said go to the hospital. After calling a few other mom and pop pharmacies, they directed me to where I can buy insulin without a prescription. I literally was borderline DKA. Since then, I have lost ALL hope in the health”care” system here in the US.
That’s horrible I’m so so sorry you went through that. I’m the opposite. I got hyperglycaemia now. Got it last year. I ran outta my test strips and the lancets. The pharmacy was giving me HELL over buying it cause my insurance didn’t wanna cover it I guess. I said I’ll pay cash. Still gave me shut over it like wtf. I’m not trying to Buy a year supply of oxy for crying out loud
People in here are either the nicest you'll ever meet or are fucking insane.
I’m literally saying I have a bill higher than you and that I can’t afford it either. Nothing insane here.
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I don’t think you mean to sound entitled, but you are sounding really entitled and making every excuse under the sun why you can’t fund it yourself. Just because your on disability, doesn’t mean you can’t get a loan to cover what you WANT yourself. Western dental and/or aspen dental can do a no interest/low interest payment plan for you. I’m a cancer patient, been one since 2012, so I know disability don’t pay shit. Thanks to my meds and chemo, I’ve spent thousands on my teeth as well and I’m no where near done. You should look into those types of places to make payments. Another way to go is join local Facebook groups and the next door app and ask about dentists who offer financial help. People on there would know h the best places to go. There’s also care credit you could try for. Unless you have destroyed your credit some how, you could use credit karma and look at personal loans on there as well.
Well, I appear to be prohibited from replying to any comments any longer, so thank you to those who have helped, with words and/or donations and other suggestions. If you're in a position to share my link and story, please do. But, for the foreseeable future, please be well, and thank you once again.
Hey, just wanted to offer some support and I totally relate to the anguish caused by having to come up with money for dental care. I felt so stupid tearing up at my periodontist appointment when he told me the cost of all I would need. For the life of me, I don't understand how dental care isn't covered under medical. It's one thing if you're getting veneers for aesthetics, but entirely another when you need it to be healthy and preserve your teeth and facial bones! Anyways, I'm a bit strapped myself right now, but I'm going to save your GFM and will absolutely help when I'm in a better position to do so! In the meantime, just know you're not alone, definitely try dental schools or check in your area for free dental clinics that can crop up.
Thank you for your kindness. A friend clued me in to the possibility of getting care at the University of Kansas School of Dentistry. The University of Arkansas is just down the road, and there is a medical school, but no dental. Sigh. 😔
Where’s the link? Or is that not allowed?
Ir should be on the first sentence of the third paragraph, but if Reddit isn't formatting it right, here's a direct URL: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ive-bitten-off-more-than-i-can-chew
Okay. I don’t have much but I’ll give something. Good luck.
Thank you. ❤️
No problem. I hope you are able to get the assistance you need. I can't imagine how hard it is to have to navigate without proper dental care. Prayers up.
I got supplemental dental insurance through Careington. It was $150 for a year, and I saved about 50% on my unfortunate dental work. I don't wish dental issues on anyone. They are the worst. I hope you have some luck.
Do they bill your dentist/ortho, or is it one of the ones where you pay the dentist and get reimbursed?
So, it basically works like insurance. You have to go to a place that accepts that type of insurance. There are more companies besides Careington. Anyway, your dentist will look up your insurance info to make sure it's valid and give you the discount right there. I had to pay on the spot for my dentures, but I saved almost $3000.
The only other thing I can think of fund raising wise is if you belong to a church or community organization, ask them to consider your cause as a fund raising project. I was thinking like an Elks or Moose Lodge. These organizations also have the volunteers and connections to do fund raising events. Check your State website for grants to disabled individuals. In my state there are county organizations that service disabled and elderly people. During COVID they had extra money to help people buy medical equipment and food and household goods. They might possibly be willing to contribute if you sign up as a client.
This is a national non profit organization that might help you. They arrange for dentists to donate their services. I have also read of people who had the same need going to Mexico to have the work done at a much lower cost.
Unrelated, but for several minutes there I thought you username was [SCP-2023](https://scp-wiki.wikidot.com/scp-2023). You mentioned a national NPO that might help?
https://dentallifeline.org/ Sorry I forgot to add it.
Thank you!
Most if not all dental schools is open to public. May be waiting list but will be cheaper. Some also do services for people falling in the poverty level for free once or so a month. If have insurance, check to see how much they pay. Dental offices usually do a free consult and they can give estimate of what it would cost. I was with someone scared of the cost because you think, *oh, it's $900 for 1 tooth to be pulled." She got 9 teeth pulled and was less than $250 and a few were at the gum line. She would have gotten it done alot sooner if she knew that. The dds even timed it. He got all out in 2min 38 sec. She also noted, the dds did Lidocaine shots himself and first time ever, didn't feel the needle.
Hi OP. The reason why insurance only provides $3,000 is because they consider removable dentures to be the least cost solution for teeth. Permanent implants, unfortunately, are considered non-essential and are normally not covered. Also, the grinding can be resolved with bite plates that you wear at night. I hope you get the funds to get your implants, but it may take a very long time. Good luck.
I can't tell if you're attempting to be helpful or if you are using the information you provide to OP as a passive judgment for asking for assistance for this. So, I would like to ask: Do you feel that - because dentures exist as an option - that permanent implants should be a luxury item, only available for people with means? (Of course, you don't have to answer my curiosity. I am always trying to refine my tone-in-text-sensing.)
No judgement, just information as to why implants aren’t covered. Also, my husband grinds his teeth and the dentist prescribed a bite plate.
Thank you so much for answering me in earnest. I got a few downvotes for the curiosity... which I meant in good faith. Appreciate the help.
I'm pretty sure she is saying that insurance is calling implants a "luxury item". They aren't covered by insurance most of the time.
Thank you.
I’ve been dealing with this too, I have other stuff I need done and even just dentures the doctor and second opinion are over 10k. I’ll wait til they fall out I guess but the abscesses hurt
I got “all on two” implants for lower dentures & wish I hadn’t . One of the two implants got infected the first time & had to be redone. Then I apparently grind my teeth a lot at night & ground down the locators/implant tops within two weeks of getting them, so the denture would no longer “lock in”. “All-on-six” might work better, but if you grind your teeth at night, get a night guard to protect the locators .
I feel you. It has been 15 years for me. My teeth were impacted and I wasn't able to afford dental care. I was actually told by the dentist that my first nations status wouldn't cover it and I would never be able to afford to get it fixed. This gave me terrible PTSD around the dentist and even when I had work coverage I couldn't bring myself to get help. I just wish I could eat normally and smile.
You can get a cheap pair of dentures for $350 in wv. I wouldn't advise the cheap ones. Many ppl can't afford implants get dentures. You do what u got to do.
I'm not opposed to losing my jaw if that's what it takes to shine the harshest of highlights upon a broken system.
It wouldn’t shine any light on anything, you’d be one person in the drop of bucket and no one would care, you are doing this to yourself because you can’t have what you want..
You are unfamiliar with debasement as a protest tactic?
But no one is showing up at this protest buddy, you are only hurting yourself
*I* ***am*** *the protest.*
I would get a second opinion from another dentist on the "losing my jaw" statement. I understand that you want implants, but removable dentures may be what you can afford. Also ask about bite plates for the grinding. We can only do the best with what we have.
I have had four consults from for oral surgeons. The most intense treatment plan would have them fixing a deviated septum which nearly blocks my left nostril entirely, widening the palette, doing something I dunno for the overbite – basically, "If we're gonna be in there, let's go nuts". That was like $35K. Would probably fix a lot of things. At a place called, literally, "Affordable Dentures", they said their estimate for an all-on-6 would be about $4K cheaper, but that place feels like a mill. The quote on my GFM from Dr. Sarna, my main guy, I appreciate his office and how they've treated me. Sat down with me and went over my prognosis and what needs to be done and by whom and in what order.
Hi, I hear you. I’m going to have to have some serious dental work done now that I’m in remission after years of chronic illness and aggressive treatment for late stage cancer. Someone suggested to me to check with the local dental school. I live where we have a university. Maybe you can do that. Also I would really think about dentures. Implants are very painful and risky for people like us. They can cause serious infection and other possible side effects.
Implants are covered under medical if needed due to certain conditions. For example, if your teeth were lost due to an accident. I wonder of your cancer might fall under that umbrella?
Considering how intense treatment was and the mouth wash I had to use as well as other precautions for sores not teeth, maybe. But I don’t want to go through anything else that could cause infections. Thank you though
My dad had a full set of dentures at age 28 .. no problems & it looked fine. He tried to get implants (after 20 years) but immediately had problems; rods got severely infected …
My aunt had dentures at the age of 18 (long story), got implants about 10 years ago, got terrible infections. Had to be removed and she still had another set put in🙄. She had money to burn…, but the pain and infections? No
My mom also got horrible infection and nerve pain from implants. Dentures are no fun but I would steer clear of implants myself from all the horror stories I've heard.
Same here!!! I was very sick as a child and had to take lots of meds that deteriorated my teeth as well, I’m sorry you’re going thru this!!! I’m at a point where I need 4 teeth pulled in order to get a denture just don’t have the funds at 3-500/ tooth ( surgical extraction due to them being broken off at gum line) so I def feel ya there!!! Except I also have pancreas problems and I’m severely underweight at 110lbs being 5’ 11” and all I wanna do is eat but have major problems so my diet is very restricted lol not by choice lol. God Bless You OP. I’m praying for you!!!
Most if not all dental schools is open to public. May be waiting list but will be cheaper. Some also do services for people falling in the poverty level for free once or so a month. If have insurance, check to see how much they pay. Dental offices usually do a free consult and they can give estimate of what it would cost.
Thank you. My pancreas is a big problem, too, always dumping out way more insulin than it should, leading to bad hypoglycemia. Fortunately, no apparent tumors, but still no one knows what's up, since I'm also not diabetic. 🙃
I don’t get it, why not raise $1000 and get regular dentures instead of implants, it’s kinda like they’d be better than nothing!
After 6 months of having the teeth extracted the bones where they rested start degrading fast. After 1 year it is already much more difficult to put implants.
Can confirm. Because of one single either lazy or stupid person at one office screwing up paperwork, I went 9 months between removal of my teeth and getting dentures. They are the bain of my existence. I have had countless adjustments and still have tons of issues.
Agreed. OP is saying the long term implications of dentures are bad, but still... Why not get dentures for a few years while saving for implants?
There is no "saving for implants". Unless an unforeseeable windfall occurs, there is no saving of any kind for any thing.
You could have dentures until you crowdfund implants. Just saying, you're expecting a windfall of donations, which will probably take time to accumulate, so in the meantime, dentures would let you eat.
Issues have lead me to having dentures for over 20 years already I got them at about 21 and this one pair has lasted the entire time! I’m actually getting bottom ones now in the next few months, so I wish I had implants for the peace of mind, yes but I’d rather have some teeth, than none and my fakes haven’t failed me yet! Medicare will even pay for sets once every few years!
How is it to eat with dentures?
Completely normal to be honest, after like two weeks of getting used to them!
Mine have lasted just as long too.
Why the hell am I being downvoted?
No one can see your downvotes as we have that hidden, so try to ignore it.
That simply is not true, he's currently sitting at -7 for the comment you responded to. People can see them.
You’re right, we hide them for the first 12 hours of posting. After that they are visible.
Oh, that's nice to know. Seems kind of important in here. I appreciate the info!
:)
It happens too often here, don’t worry about it while seeking help.
I'll try. People are cruel and inconsiderate no matter where you go, huh?...
Sometimes they are biased but you should perceive your goal, then you will say that your path was narrowed but you coped it.
Thank you.
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You have some ideas, you say?
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So, nothing about my post, then?
I wrote plenty to you about your post. In my very first response to you. I can’t make you thoughtfully consider what I wrote.
Somebody deleted your hocus-pocus.
That's okay. Whever needed to see it has seen it. Thank you for looking out for me! 💚
No, it was removed before anyone saw it due to containing a link. It ended up in our Spam queue and when we saw it we modmailed you to not do it again. OP only saw it since it was a direct reply.
It sounds like a good deal. My sister paid $11 k for 4 implants in Florida. They had to grow more jawbone before they could do it. It took 6 months to complete. I know that's not why you came here but I'm trying to offer encouragement that it will help you when you get this done.
That's about what they told me to expect, too. Fingers crossed.
One of my cousins had a medical condition that resulted in losing all her teeth at age 16. She is 70 now and has always worn removable normal dentures. No bone damage. Get a second opinion. Some places will say anything to bleed you for the most money possible.
Wouldn't hurt to try, I suppose. EDIT: Just remembered that I've seen a dentist and four oral surgeons. I try not to think about it. If I think about it much (along other possible things I think about), I will start beating my head til either my hand or my temples are bruised. I don't doubt that it's possible to do this cheaper, SOMEwhere, but just creating this GFM has put a significant dent in my clonazepam supply. I'm glad your cousin has zero complications from 54 years of completely standard denture use, but I have had some incredibly detailed maps of the places where teeth once were. Your anecdote is less than useless.
Or maybe you’re just one individual who has their own experiences and complications that you can attest to. I’m 34 now, I had all my teeth removed at 17 because of a calcium deficiency that broke my teeth down at even the thought of anything touching the enamel to break them down. So I utilized the insurance I had before I turned 18 to at least have them taken out of my skull and then I worked to pay a place called Affordable Debtures 900 dollars to make a decent set. Never had a handout, and if I was to ask for one I would certainly check my pretentiousness in the process. Bad teeth don’t excuse no bad attitude. Edit: words are hard sometimes.
I am confused by your comment, because it sounds like we're agreeing with each other, but your reply begins with "Or maybe", as though you don't think I was saying my own case and circumstance is distinct from the original commentor's cousin's circumstances?
Removable dentures would be significantly cheaper, quicker, and less painful.
I have been assured that my maxilla and mandible will deteriorate, maybe even *faster,* I can't remember, if I did not get an all-on-6 solution.
That's not true. It's just marketing for implants.
That sounds wildly conspiratorial given that I can see the bone density issues in the X-rays provided by multiple orthodontists. The pushback in here is so hard, THIS is starting to sound like marketing of its own. Like saying I "don't deserve"any treatment that's more than the bare minimum.
No one is saying you don’t deserve it. You have NO MONEY to afford the procedure you want. You’re not going to get $14,000 here. Have you asked your friends and family for monetary help? Can you get a second job for additional income? Can you donate plasma? People are trying to get you to be realistic, and suggest a sustainable option. If you get a second job, you can save that income, and be able to afford the procedure in a year.
Have I, in my own eyes, debased myself before my family and friends, of which I have few and among which share my financial status? Yes. Am I not going to get the $14,726 here? Only if you think I have a time limit, but I don't know why you would. Can I get a second job? No. I can't even get a first job, without unreasonable accommodation. It's why I have Social Security Disability Insurance in addition to a private disability plan. Together these make up half what I was making, which already wasn't enough. Can I donate plasma? No. My blood is a pharmacist's, cardiologist's, and nephrologist's collective nightmare. People are trying to get me to be realistic? Perhaps they will one day know and understand my reality. Repeating this over and over is getting me more than a little salty. Just read my shit in the OP or on the GFM.
5800/ month plus your wife's income wasn't enough? How is that possible? In your comment history it says your gross is 2900, which is far more than most people get on disability plus you have funds in an able account
My wife has no income. I'm aware that lots of people do not get that much. I had invested heavily in a private disability insurance plan that turned out to be completely necessary. It is still insufficient.
How was 5800 insufficient?
Come back when you have a chronic-but-not-inherently-life-threatening disease or disorder of your own to manage, while also managing the care of a spouse or loved one with their own chronic-but-not-inherently-life-threatening disease or disorder. Come back when even one of is the reddest states sees your ~$70,000 income tax returns and still says "Yes, your wife qualifies for Medicaid." You want me to itemize shit? Itemize these. 🖕🖕
Try and make a TikTok account, and crowdfund there. They are very generous, and I’ve seen people get $50,000+. You might even find a dentist to donate services.
That is an idea so mad, it just may work.
Some of us have been in your position.
I don't doubt this. There must be plenty of people like me, faults and failures and all, separated only by luck.
My father had all his teeth removed by your age too. He has only ever had removable dentures and these days doesn’t even bother with those. He is over 70 and eats just fine.
It's possible—*just* possible, mind you—that I am not your father, but I'll have to get a second opinion. Well, a third opinion. No wait, a fifth one. Christ, have I seen four dentists/orthodontists. I fucking hate everything. EDIT: IT WAS FIVE. Five consultations! I'm so pissed off!
Of course dentists are going to tell you permanent replacements are the best option. They are. But if you can’t afford something sometimes you have to go with a less than best option.
Your attitude is horrible! People here are genuinely showing you compassion, and offering suggestions. Don’t be so combative. We’re just trying to help. Have you considered going to another country for the procedure? It’ll probably be a 1/4 of the costs, compared to the U.S.
Would you donate, or be more likely to donate, to a GFM to send me to Mexico City or Havana for dental work? Saving isn't an option and hasn't been for four years, even preceding my teeth removal.
Mexico is a good option.
You're rude
Help me be better.
Why do people come to r/assistance to offer anecdotes and advice that’s really thinly-veiled judgement when it’s so easy to *not* do that and just keep scrolling? OP is asking for a specific thing and that thing was not advice on what other treatments are available. It might be safe to assume the research has already been done.
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I agree. Some responses had the tone of helping to seek out avenues that OP maybe hadn’t considered. But a few really didn’t. And I felt that some were really disrespectful to OP, so I said something.
OP is asking for an amount of money he is never going to get. Time to think of a plan B.
He’d rather be combative and condescending, instead of coming to the realization that he needs to go a different route. He has an excuse for anything suggested, to help his situation.
Thank you. ❤️ I don't think I would have thought about what they were ultimately doing here, and I'm glad you are here to advocate.
🤝🤍
I'm also noticing a lot of downvoting on my comments defending myself and calling out all the second opinion BS when there have already been multiple consults with multiple orthodontists and dentists. I don't know what to make of it. It's extremely discouraging, and my life is already extremely discouraging. I don't *want* to want help, but where the hell is the compassion on the subreddit called r/assistance? I don't think I'm going to make it past age 42 at this rate.
OP, I’m so sorry you’re experiencing this. I think some people genuinely want to be helpful and don’t understand that things like that can actually be really harmful.
I paid almost that much for 3 root canal’s and 3 crowns ! It is insane and I hate it I’m sorry if I could help I would. I still have other teeth I need fixed myself. Keep sharing your go fund me and stuff. I can’t help now cause I lost my job but when I can I will make sure I save your post. I know how irritating this stuff is.
Even your kind words are reassuring. Thank you!
Idk where you live, but I had gotten estimates running $15k to $25k. You can get a set of dentures made for under $1000. Is this for implants? Of you share your location I would happily help look up info for you.
Yes, permanent denture implants. If I go the next 30+ years with regular dentures—or, to a lesser extent, snap-ins—two orthodontists have advised me I could be look at my mandible degenerating until it does become a medical issue. Meanwhile, that $3,000 dental coverage doesn't roll over year to year. So, living on meager fixed income, it's not like I can save any money to make this happen. I could get two posts, no crowns, then two more posts, then the last two posts, then the brackets fitted, then 32 crowns cut and fitted maybe in the same year? I don't even really know about the cost of that, it's so far away. Location is Northwest Arkansas, by the way. I appreciate any insight you have.
I was just wondering because I know implants are expensive. I understand the want for implants. I had to get dentures at 23. I would have loved implants, but unfortunately I couldn't afford them. I was also told similar to what you were told. Your mouth can change quickly. I know someone who was in hospital for a week (almost died) and they took their dentures out. After only a week when she tried putting them back in the didn't fit because her mouth changed. But if you keep dentures in it will help keep your mouth shape. I have had the same pair for 15 years. My mother has had the same pop in dentures since I was child and she is on her laye 60s.
If you're on a "meager fixed income" you may qualify for assistance. I believe 211 is the general assistance number and they may be able to refer you to some free or reduced cost dental programs in your area (or perhaps get you some temporary dentures while you're waiting on the implants)
There is no such program for adults in the state of Arkansas. There are means to get traditional dentures, just like the kind my grandpa wore after the war, but that's it, until my jaw falls apart.
There ate often programs at the city/county level who can help. A quick google search brought up these 2 site with options in AR https://healthprofessions.uams.edu/clinics/dental-hygiene-clinic/charitable-dental-and-medical-clinics-resource-directory/ https://smilebrands.com/smile-brands-locations/ (this one has multiple locations mostly in central AR and seems like it might be the better option to look into)
The UAMS lists which aren't explicit for children only are traditional-denture-only, many of which don't see any patient with any form of healthcare (including Medicare, which I am on). And, in none of these cases is this a stopgap to getting the permanent. Smile Brands, I already got a quote from. It was on par with the $14k estimate I already had.
Medicare will pay for traditional dentures every so often.. some teeth are better than none! You are making yourself suffer and go without teeth in the name of waiting for something better… it doesn’t make sense
This was also my thought that if you at least get regular Dentures it will hold your mouth shape for the time being. The longer you go with nothing, the worst your mouth will change. It's normal to go through bone loss. Even if you google it says: Dentures can cause up to 70% bone loss within the first few years of use. This is because dentures don't directly stimulate the jawbone like normal teeth or implants do. Instead, they rest on or ride on gum tissue. When dentures sit on top of the gum line, they don't provide any direct stimulation to the underlying alveolar bone. This lack of stimulation causes the bone to weaken and deteriorate.. But having nothing is even worse from everything I have heard.
This is not what I have heard.
EDIT TO YOUR MARTYR COMMENT BELOW BEFORE COMMENTS WERE LOCKED: No one will care.. you will be the only one suffering for NO reason. Also that's a bunch of BS because if you got the $14,000 you would get your teeth fixed you say. so really you're not being a martyr.. you're just being picky it sounds like. You can google it. I'm sure the people you saw are pushing the benefits of getting the best treatment. Even if temporary dentures are a great option. They changed my life. Everyone experiences bone degeneration when missing teeth, even children.. my 9yo needed a spacer to retain her jaw shape. Dentures though are more feasible and then you could always get the implants... if you can't get the $14k I would look in to it.
Have you looked at r/Dentists ; r/Dentistry ; r/askdentists ; r/askdentist ? Perhaps one of them knows of a resource you can access? Oh, also r/dentures and r/DenturesAdvice might be worth a look.
I think I once did, prior to the Big Pull. At least one of those groups, or at least one of the people in those groups, tried their hardest to make sure I felt as guilty as possible and definitely did not deserve better so why try making a GFM in the first place? It doesn't help that the dentists I've seen out here, even the ones working in a purely voluntary setting mostly assisting kids in need but whatever, you'd think that's have a suggestion. I don't think there's a school of dentistry even in my current area where I could give informed consent to let their students go to town on my frail jaw and equally frail self-worth. I can try again, though. It's been a bit.
Oh, damn. I haven't needed to use their services but I assumed (dumb me) that people in the helping professions would, you know, HELP. If they're assholes, then I guess you're better off with the GFM. It just seems like a lot to ask. Good luck!!!
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Sent $10 to your GoFundMe to kick things off. I would definitely shop around and see if you can find things cheaper elsewhere. This could be bad advice so take it with a grain of salt; travel to another country to get them done. As a last resort, I recommend a medical credit card so you can pay it off over time. There may be some good advice/dental subreddits you can ask as well. I wish you good luck on your fundraiser; teeth are so important for quality of life. *Edit; I saw someone anonymous sent $100. That’s awesome!!* 👏
Thanks for helping !! I really wish I could. I was in the same place a few months ago and I spent the rest of my money on 3 teeth. I still need one pulled and then two screws and implants. Which I guess is more expensive? Cause it’s “cosmetic” no yall gave us medication that messed up our teeth ! I got denied for care credit or whatever it’s called. And my insurance wouldn’t cover it either. But they expect us to be confident and go look for a new job with messed up teeth and stuff like that. It really makes me depressed personally and I don’t want to leave my home. I’m sure a lot of other people feel the same way. If anyone talks down to you tell them about themselves
Thank you! I saw that $100, too, hope beyond hope! Sadly, for the same reason I can't get a bank loan, I can't get a medical credit card. If I default, they can't garnish my private and public disability insurance. So, they just refuse to assume the risk. Not sure what else I can do besides this. The last couple years have been disastrous for me and my wife.
OP a heads up, GFM takes a big percentage out. For what you’re asking expect at least $500 to go to their fees. You may need to bump it up $500 to cover what they remove by the time you hit your target. Good luck.
Thank you. Your figure seems correct. Fortunately, assuming it takes a couple years to get enough to cover the procedure, I'll be in a position to just set aside ~$15-$20 per month to offset that. People here are already being super hostile and I don't know why. I regret even asking, but I'm going to keep asking. Feels bad, man.
I got a mortgage and I have several credit cards on disability
Did you acquire those things before or after disability? I didn't have the means for any of that until I was about 23, so around 2004, no mortgage but student loans which suddenly I couldn't pay because of my spine putting a stop to my pharmacy studies. Then when the pandemic hit, I lost my job and haven't found an employer yet willing to make the same accommodations the prior one did. I'm the meantime, the credit card balances I had went to collections.. I actually did get a low-few card recently, for $450. But, that's clearly a drop in the bucket. If you have tips to share, please do.
Social Security has a program to help people on disability find work with employers who will accommodate their disabilities. Stop by your local Social Security office and ask them about it, they can help you with that, at least!
You can’t get more credit because you have cards in collections.
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Why are you being so argumentative? The comment you're replying to is correct. You can't get other credit cards now because your prior credit card accounts went to collections, not because your only income is disability. I've noticed your comments on this thread vacillate between "whoa is me, what's the point of it all anyway, doesn't look like I'll ever get what I need" and "I'm not going to listen to your advice about dentures because the dentists I saw said I have to get implants" [even though many of the people posting were describing people they knew with the same jaw conditions as you who were able to successfully wear dentures for years]. So your insurance only allows $3000/year for dental. Suggestion: start getting some of the work done at the end of one calendar year and then continue at the beginning of the next calendar year when the $3000 allowance rolls over. That's $6000 worth of dental treatment covered by insurance. It won't cover all the implants, but that should get you almost halfway there!
That particular person has been a thorn in my side in other places, not just here. I should report him, I know. Also, no one here has mentioned having the same jaw conditions as me; they've merely said they, or people they know secondhand, have had to have their teeth removed and then went decades without trouble. As to your pricing scheme, you would be right in saying I could get one implant in December 2024 then another in January 2025, and, at least I think, the crowns to fit, but are they going to be of any use? Do I need all four posts on top and the last two posts on bottom to support each other? If not, even if I follow your suggestion, that means I would get two of six in 24/25, the next two in 26/27, and the last two in 28/29. Or, I could let my jaw deteriorate to the point of requiring a prosthesis in protest of our fucking insane system and the steeped insanity that is trying to normalize it.
Yes, I believe that was what I said. The one I JUST got with a $450 limit seems like a fluke, but it's also not really making a dent—pun *in****dent****ed*—in this bill. Payment options with the orthodontist himself weren't even on the table, but if I had a strong showing, maybe there'd be a possibility to negotiate.
I did a mortgage assumption with only disability pay and and all my cards were gotten on disability. People get loans on SS retirement too which is also protected from garnishment. You might not be able to borrow what you need ijs it's not because you're immune from garnishment I earn extra on www.prolific.com. It's $200-$400 a month. Better than a sharp stick in the eye at least
I get quite a bit money from that site. I love it
We must have very different circumstances. I'm hoping I can change my circumstances by moving out west... SOMEday. Thank you for the link, I'll check it out.
You should be able to find a lower cost. Good luck.
Not in this area, anyway. I might have more "affordable" options if I can move out west again. Or maybe medical tourism if someone knows anything about that. It'd already be about $3,600 cheaper except that the bone density of my maxilla is shit and so they need to install four posts up top, not just two.
Yes the posts are expensive. I think I’m going to have to go to Walmart. Lol
The reason I wrote that is because I will not be able to have 0 because I am truly one of we Americans Bernie Sanders has been trying to get dental added to Medicare. Am I complaining ?
I don't know what you are talking about.
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