I only have 5 teeth left. but have around 10 that have broken off at the gum level. i am on disability but don't have the money to get my teeth pulled or get dentures. What can I do. I keep getting abscesses and have sought out so many resources but make too much with ssd to get assistance but not enough to get help. I am afraid I will die from this. Any ideas about what to do?
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Q: will i die from not being able to afford dental care?
Answers (2)
2/22/12 9:14am
Dental abcesses that are not treated properly can be life-threatening. If you have Medicare or private medical insurance, it may cover the dental work you need to have done because it is jeopardizing your health. They don't cover preventative dental care or dentures, but may cover oral surgery to remove the broken teeth and treat the abcesses.
Also, here are two links that offer information about free and low-cost dental care:
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research
New Horizons – Donated Dental Services
Please don't give up trying to find help. It's important that you get this taken care of.
2/22/12 1:49pm
Dentral infections can have serious consequences ifor your heart and other organs. Studies have shown that people with dental infections have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. That doesn't mean that you will get a cardiovascular disease if you have a dental infection but the inflammation associated with them and possibility of pathogens getting into your blood stream does increase your risk.
One thing you might try are University dental schools. They often have clinics in which lower income people can get some relief. Good luck! Its a shame dental coverage is so poor while the costs of dental care is so high.
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By floraalee— Last Modified: 02/22/12, First Published: 02/19/12
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