Expert: Mark Bornfeld DDS - 9/28/2006

Question
I am a 21 year old male and for the past few months I have been having terrible headaches non stop because i have two giant cavities on each side in the back of my mouth. It hasn't been a day that went by that I am eating something or drinking something and I feel shatters of my teeth in the food I chew.  I don't have insurance and I don't know what to do.  I'm afraid that whatever bacteria is in my mouth will spread and all of my teeth will shatter. What is this and what should I do?

Answer
Dear Tim,

Quite obviously, what you need to do is visit a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Most people do not have the benefit of dental insurance, and still manage to procure regular dental care that can be worked into their regular budget.

Unless you have already visited a dentist and have been quoted a fee that is beyond your means, you should not assume that dentistry is not feasible. This is especially the case if you have active dental disease, since further progression will often just make things more complicated and expensive.

You might consider seeking dental care at an institutional setting, such as a teaching hospital or dental school clinic, where the fees are often significantly lower than those in private practices.

Hope this helps...

Mark Bornfeld DDS
www.dentaltwins.com
Brooklyn, NY