Desperately Need To See A Dentist But Have No Insurance (Chicago Area)?

Listen to always moos.

You could call the Cook county medical dental bureau, tell them your problem and see what they can do

Also, check this web site. It's 44 pages long, so you'll have to do some wading through it to find someone near you.

Good luck.

Well, here's the deal: you know that this is serious and will only get worse if you don't tend to it. I understand that you're in a financial bind because you don't have insurance. However, your health is a priority. SO, make some phone calls to some dental offices in your area and find out what kind of payment plans they offer- explain your situation (which is not unique, by the way). If you need a root canal because you have a major infection, then you're probably looking at $600-$1200. I would say your overall health is worth that (and more!), so just get the treatment you need and start making payments for it; then either get some dental insurance or do not get insurance and start taking better care of your oral hygiene (and put a little money aside each month in case you need another root canal). Good luck.

I might suggest one to visit this web page where onel can compare rates from different companies: http://insureforeverybody.info/index.html?src=2YAd...

RE :Desperately Need To See A Dentist But Have No Insurance (Chicago Area)?

I desperately need to see a dentist, but I have no insurance. My molars ache like crazy, but that's the least of my worried. I have (what I believe) is an infected tooth (the gums above it in front and back are swollen and red and it hurts but I have no fever). Also, I believe I have gingivitis (possibly even peridontitis). I'm panicking because I know the seriousness of both conditions. I just don't know what to do.

The dental insurance plans available only offer coverage after a very long waiting period (average is 12 months) and I just don't know what to do. I do work, but it's only 30 hours/week so my job doesn't extend insurance for me.

Does anyone have any suggestions?

I live in the south suburbs of Chicago if anyone can recommend a place locally that can help...I just don't know where to start. Even if it's general advice, please help!

And please don't be mean...I'm already scared enough.

1 following 12 answers

Cheap Dentist Chicago

I'm not in the Chicago area, but the least you should do is go in for a cleaning!! A cleaning can be anywhere from $50-$140 in my experience, so call around and find out how much they are. Also, most dentists will work with you on a payment plan. While your there for the cleaning, speak with them about your other issues and ask about a payment plan. Tell them it was a struggle to come up with the small amount for the cleaning, but you are dedicated to your oral health. They really do want you to be healthy and if that means stretching the payments out, they will usually do it.

You can also try a dentistry school (university) and the students, under the supervision of professionals, will work on you for a reduced rate.

I don't live in Chicago so I don't know any doctors there. But, my friend went to a dentist last year without having insurance. She just ended up paying for it.

As you probably know, dentists can be very expensive but that also varies. Some might be cheaper than others. I would look up dentists in your area and give them a call. Explain your situation and ask for the prices for the procedures you may need. They may be hesitant so tell them that you just need a general price and understand that you might turn out needing a completely different treatment.

Good luck!

Call a local school of dentistry (there are probably some great ones in Chicago). They may take patients for free in order to train students (a qualified dentist oversees them). I've heard this is a great option for people without dental insurance.

In the meantime, I hope you feel better!

I do live in the Chicago area and my dentist accepts my dental discount plan. My savings are really good and my dentist always does a good job! If you need more info just let me know....Hope everything works out for you...

For immediate help, you might try the Dental Association which can put you in touch with any local dental clinics.. Treatment in these can save you a lot of money.. For long term, I have found that www.dentalplans.com offers a really EXCELLENT cheap discount plan that will also cover medicines, and eyewear.. We have used them for several years, and have saved thousands in dental costs.. and also prescription costs. They have a good selection plans and dentists to choose from. You can even look at the charges before you buy the plan for the various treatments you might anticipate..

Affordable dental discount plans may be the answer. While not dental insurance, dental discount plans usually start at around $10/month and usually cover pre-existing conditions because the dentists are happy to have the business. The discounts are steep. You can compare a variety of dental discount plans at http://www.lowpriceddentalplans.com/