One big concern that is affecting more and more Americans on a daily basis is, "can we afford to get our teeth fixed"? With unemployment at rates that haven't been seen for decades and employers slashing existing pay and benefits for existing employees, people are wondering what they are going to do for dental care. I know a man whose benefits are being taken away at the end of the month because the company he worked with for 30 years is going bankrupt and forcing the retirees to give up their benefits. Luckily for him he was able to get a majority of the work that needed to be done on his teeth done.

Some people aren't so lucky. Some have never had dental insurance. Some have just enough for bills and food. This is not just limited to low income families anymore, but middle class families as well. Should these people have to worry about losing their teeth or the daily, nagging, throbbing pain of cavities, broken teeth or worse?
Making a trip to the dentist can be a very pricey proposition. Just to have an exam without insurance can run upwards of $300. Are there any options for people that have no dental insurance?
First, check to see if you dentist has a payment plan option that would allow you to pay over a period of time for their service. Many can be accommodating, some not so much. It's at least worth a call to ask the question.

If your dentist doesn't accept payment plans try calling 211 on the phone to see if there are any free dental clinics in your area. If you don't have 211 in your area call the Department of Human Services. They should be able to make you aware if there are any free dental clinics in your local area. Free dental clinics are formed and run by dentist that would like to help the community out by giving their dental services for free. Be prepared to fill out applications and have proof of income. Typically, these programs are only for low income families.

Don't forget to check out Medicaid either. Dental services are free for children on Medicaid; go to the local Department of Human Services to get an application. Medicaid is for newborn children to age 18.

Another option for you might be to purchase a low cost dental plan. Dental plans are NOT dental insurance. It is a discount dental plan that some dentists (who participate) take and these dentists agree to do the dental work at a discounted price. It's like a network with health insurance only it's for dental.

Probably the best site that I've found for dental plans has over 30 different plans to choose from and when you pay for the plan it is activated and ready for use 3 days later! This website is DPBrokers! They have plans that start as low as $79.95 per year with 3 additional months FREE right now. You can end up saving 10% to 60% on most dental procedures, including checkups, cleanings, braces, and cosmetic dentistry on select plans. You're able to search for plans that are best for you as well as do a check to see if a local dentist participates with the program; all before purchasing. Once you purchase your plan, you can print out your card at home. They also have discounted prescriptions, chiropractic and vision care. It is a great site and I would recommend everyone who needs dental insurance, but that doesn't have enough money to pay for it to check out these dental plans.

If none of these options work for you then you could consider one of the local colleges that have dental schools. Dental schools will perform free work on people for practice. Keep in mind that they are supervised and a real Dentist is always there watching and helping.
Until the day that there is a change in insurance policies many people will continue to be without dental insurance. Do yourself a favor and review the information I have provided especially if you are having problems with your teeth. You make a first impression with your teeth and as a bonus; they help you chew your food. Don't' put yourself at risk and chance loosing a tooth, an infection or a break. You owe it to yourself to get help today!