Expert: Mark Bornfeld DDS - 10/5/2008

Question
Hello I am in great need of dental care, and so is my family. We havent been able to afford the cost to be seen, let alot have our teeth repaired. I have five childerr, ages, 18, 16, 14, 5 and 3, all of which need dental care. I, myself, am in great pain.. I think my tooth is absessed. I also have a broken filling . I am in great fear of what may happen. I havent been feeling well this last week and have been treating myself with Advil. My husband is just as bad off as myself.. I am searching for someone who can help us. I havent found anyone who is willing to help . We cant afford the prices they are asking, and they also request payment in full BEFORE treatment. We dont have that type of money . Please advise.. I am in great need, we all are.. I cant go on like this any more.. We do have insurance, blue cross, but they do not pay very much to make a difference, and by having that insurance, we can not get any other help. I have already contacted out state(georgia). Please help... Thank you so very much..

Lorraine

Answer
Dear lorraine,

Although the Georgia dental Medicaid program is rather limited in scope, you should investigate to see whether you and your family qualify.

Otherwise, you should consider seeking care at an institutional setting, such as a hospital or dental school clinic, where the fee structure is significantly below those customarily found in private practice. For assistance in finding such a venue, you can contact your local dental society, which can be found at the following web page:

http://www.ada.org/ada/organizations/local.asp

In addition, if either you or your husband are disabled, you may qualify for no-charge dental care through the Donated Dental Services program. You can find additional information, as well as application instructions, at:

http://nfdh.org/joomla_nfdh/content/view/88/142/

Good luck!

Mark Bornfeld DDS
www.dentaltwins.com
Brooklyn, NY