Any time that you require major dental work, the cost of such work will be a factor in your decision about whether to have it done or if you are going to delay it. There are certain dental and oral health issues that should not be put off if at all possible. For some people, this is not a realistic possibility, especially if they are struggling financially.
Assuming that the dental problems that you have are not critical, you may want to consider some affordable alternatives to various situations that you are facing at this time.
A lost tooth
If you have lost a tooth, dental implants are an option. However, dental implants can cost a significant amount of money. In some cases a dental implant can cost $2,000 or more. A bridge is a more affordable alternative to having a new, artificial tooth installed.
A broken tooth
If you have a broken tooth, whether it is due to an injury or another issue, it can make you feel uncomfortable when you smile. Depending on where the tooth is broken, it could also cause pain. Caps are one solution to protecting a broken tooth, but you could also consider having it removed if the dentist determines that it will be too costly or unrealistic to save. Once removed, you could consider having a bridge installed to fill in the space.
Extreme staining of the teeth
For those individuals who drink a lot of coffee, soda, or smoke, they will generally experience significant staining of the teeth. While there is no substitute for visiting the dentist every six months for a regular checkup and for regular cleaning, if your teeth are significantly stained, misaligned, or have other issues, then veneers may offer a reasonable alternative to help you get the white smile that you want.
It is always best to visit and consult your dentist before making any decisions about oral treatment. The most important issue is your oral health. Having a wonderful, confident smile is always the best result.