The VA has no answers. I can’t afford Dental and don't have 100% disability. Where or who do you turn to??

2016-03-30T00:22:54-04:00

I cant afford insurance, I don't make enough money to afford state side Dental work living close to the boarder I go to MX. After 15 years of going to the same dentist in MX, I've learned the work is only going to last about 5 years and your back replacing the same work. Id like to use an USA Dentist but the prices are jacked up 4 time higher than getting the same work done in MX. Any advice ? ?

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Mar 30 at 2016 12:33 AM

2016-03-30T00:33:59-04:00

Learn to speak better Spanish and find a better dentist in Mexico. They have very competent dentists also. Just like in CONUS, you need a referral and need to be very judicious. I am very apprehensive and only see any health professional after someone refers me.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2016 2:45 AM

2016-03-30T02:45:28-04:00

Dental schools and colleges are ALWAYS looking for "live" patients upon whom to test their training. It is almost always free or extremely nominal. Like haircuts at Barber Schools. Two dollars, tops!!!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2016 3:58 AM

2016-03-30T03:58:25-04:00

Contact a local dental school. Tufts in Boston, for example, offers free call so students can practice. Check the larger programs first and PM me if you need help locating one.

Response by SFC Paul Garza made Mar 30 at 2016 8:40 AM

2016-03-30T08:40:52-04:00

I agree with some of the other comments referencing a dental school. Years ago, my dad needed dentures and didn't have adequate insurance or VA benefits. He went to a/the dental school in San Antonio and they pulled his remaining teeth and fit him with dentures. Till this day my dad can eat corn on the cob and apples with zero issues and doesn't require denture creams or glues to keep his dentures in.
This is a GREAT option and you cannot beat the price. The dentists there are very good at what they do and do an exceptional job. HIGHLY recommended.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2016 10:01 AM

2016-03-30T10:01:21-04:00

maybe an option? http://www.militarytimes.com/story/veterans/2016/03/28/got-your-6-aspen-dental-mouthmobile-brings-free-dental-care-veterans/82344494/

MouthMobile brings free dental care to veterans

Aspen Dental and Got Your 6 are sponsoring a dental clinic on wheels that will stop at 30 cities across the country this year.

Response by PO3 Ellsworth Allen Westgate made Mar 31 at 2016 11:11 AM

2016-03-31T11:11:28-04:00

MX work is good to great - but you take that chance of finding that out over period of time. Still a Veteran should be able to afford State side Dental through the VA without 100 % rating.
" just saying"

Response by Elissa LeBlanc made Mar 31 at 2016 11:16 AM

2016-03-31T11:16:37-04:00

Check for a 'sliding scale' dental clinic in your area. They will use your income to determine what percentage of your dental procedures you will be responsible to pay.