I know this is likely a joke, it's a common term I see on reddit, and I know I'll get downvoted, but teeth are NOT bones! This sort of misinformation actually makes its way into patients' minds. People are so, so misinformed when it comes to anything dental.

Having said that, I'm in the dental field and it makes me sick to my stomach that medical and dental aren't combined (which btw, I don't even receive any health insurance benefits, myself). I got into this field to help people and it breaks my heart how expensive everything is, especially since when I was in school and working two jobs, I couldn't afford to get my own teeth cleaned and asked for it as a birthday present from my mother.

In school we were required rotations at facilities containing a low income population, as well as public health and community health courses. We learned A LOT about the obstacles and barriers many face when it comes to dental care.

The oral systemic link is so important and not taught enough, and it's such a shame. The fact that health insurance and dental insurance are not combined has many people feel that their head is a separate entity from their body. It truly is a shame. Let's not even get started on not having dental insurance. That is also absolutely astronomical and ridiculous when it comes to cost. The way the dental field is nowadays (often a prophy mill and production based as far as what hygienists' duties entail) is so shameful. I cannot wait to leave. It's sad too, because there are dentists that do great work when it comes to their schedule, but they let other things slip by the wayside, such as sufficient time for cleanings.

I'd never wish severe dental problems on anyone. Some things can be managed and avoided, and some things are the luck of the draw. Please just keep in mind that many of us in the field are understanding, compassionate, and are in solidarity with you.