I’m a forty-seven year old cancer survivor. In the late 90s, I had porcelain veneers placed and really loved them. Unfortunately, the cancer treatments have done a number on my oral health and my gums have receded making my smile look ridiculous. I’m broke from medical expenses but am on Medicaid. Is there any chance because this is a medical issue that they would cover the expense of me getting my porcelain veneers replaced?

Carmen

Dear Carmen,

I am sorry about what you went through with your cancer, but am glad you are a survivor! The problem you are up against is government based medical insurance. Let’s say that they agreed this was caused by a medical problem, which they probably won’t if they can get away with it. For instance, they can say you caused the receding gums and you’d have little way of proving otherwise, even though we know cancer treatments are horrible for teeth and gums, etc.

However, let’s say for argument’s sake that they agreed. National health care will only cover the least expensive treatment. In your case, that would mean extracting all of your teeth and giving you dentures. Something you most definitely do NOT want, especially at your young age.

I don’t know what type of dental insurance you have, if any, but I’d start by looking there. If that is no help, your best bet is to just begin to save up so you can get this done right. You don’t have to get all the porcelain veneers placed at once. You could do them one or two at a time as you have money.

Just remember, when it comes to cosmetic work, do not go to the cheapest dentist. This is an art and you want a smile that looks beautiful and a dentist who can match what you loved about your smile makeover, to begin with. There are countless cosmetic dentistry horror stories and you do not want to be one of them. If your original dentist who did your veneers isn’t available, look for someone who is AACD accredited.

This blog is brought to you by Philadephia Dentist Dr. Michael Weiss.