I need some advice. I just took over my mother’s care. I’m distraught over the care she’s received, especially her teeth. They’re a complete mess. It’s like the nursing center never gave her dental care. She’s on disability but there’s a waiting period for dental care. Like a two-year waiting period. In the meantime, her mouth is rotting. I don’t know if I should just have them all extracted and get dentures or what. Whatever has to be done is going to be expensive. Is there a way to find an affordable dentist who can help me with this? I don’t have a ton of money.
Miranda B.
Dear Miranda,
It’s great that you’re taking care of your mother like this. I know it’s a huge responsibility and you probably feel the weight of the world on your shoulders right now. Based on your description, she may not have time to wait if you’re going to be able to save any of her teeth. Ideally, the more teeth you save, the better for her and the more money you’ll save.
There are affordable dentists who will work with you in the situation you’re in. Look at Dr. Collins’ affordable dentist page to see what types of options you’ll find with a dentist compassionate with your situation.
Steps in Affordable Dental Care When You Need a LOT of Work Done
The first thing would be to find an affordable dentist. Once you do that, you really want to have her in for an initial visit, cleaning, and evaluation. As I mentioned above, you’ll want to save as many teeth as possible.
Ask the dentist to list out what needs to be done for her from the most urgent to the least. Curing any gum disease and dealing with infected teeth. From there, you’ll want to start looking into options for the teeth that can’t be saved.
Ideally, you’d want to get her dental implants (depending on her age). They’re the top of the line-tooth replacement. But, they’re also the most expensive, so there are times when a dental bridge would make more sense and costs less.
And don’t feel horrible if all you can do is a removable partial denture. Even if that’s a temporary stop-gap until insurance kicks in and you can get her something better, remind yourself that you’re already doing more for her than her last caregiver. Don’t be too hard on yourself, especially in this transition time when there’s likely more to do than time to get it accomplished.
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