I realize that toothlessness was common in the early to mid point of the 20th century - not so much in today's world of implants, sonic cleanings, whitening procedures, crowns, veneers and so on. Being toothless today is a sure sign of abject poverty, homelessness, addiction to street drugs such as Crack or Methamphetamine, alcoholism and even mental illness.
Having healthy teeth and a sparkling smile is a must if one wants to be employed in any professional position. I'm not certain that a toothless person could find work anywhere in these United States.
I am attempting to remain employable; still, I am losing ground to dental problems that are too expensive to resolve. I'm told that I need 3 root canal procedures, three crowns, one filling and one implant. I have dental insurance, albeit not very good dental insurance. It will pay no more that $1500 in any one calendar year. My approximate costs for the above mentioned procedures is almost $6000.00.
I suppose the crowns are made from solid gold, festooned with chipped diamonds, else how could they possibly cost $1000 each? And the Dentist? She must think her time worth $400.00 per hour.
Fortunately all three unhealthy teeth are located in the back of my mouth. I think I will make a visit to a barber I know in a small town east of here, have a cup of Scotch and let him get to work.
I would just go to my Veterinarian, but he is more expensive than my dentist. He wants $300.00 to clean my cat's teeth.
Jimmie! I'll get you the number of a good dentist that doesn't want your soul as payment.
Posted by: John Lawson | July 03, 2009 at 10:37 PM