Pay Out of Pocket

• Your simplest and easiest choice is to pay dental expenses out of pocket. Dental insurance usually doesn't deliver a lot of value anyway, unless you get it through your employer. If you buy it directly from insurance companies, you are not likely to save much if any money over time. James Garrison, a former executive of Washington Dental Service, explained that this is because dental care costs are relatively low and predictable. If you need dental work done, and have the money to pay out of pocket, this is the best choice.
  
  

Go to a Dental School

• The United States has dozens of schools of dentistry, and all of those students need real teeth in live patients to be able to hone their craft. If you live near a dental school, there is a good chance you can see a dental student for little or no cost. The student will be supervised by at least one trained dentist, and you are likely to get decent care. However, with students there is a higher risk of complications and errors, so use good judgment before pursuing this option.
  
  

Get a Loan

• If you need dental work done right away and can't afford it, you may be able to get a loan. First you should try friends and family who might loan you the money for free. If that fails, talk to your bank and see about taking out a loan. They may require several days to process the loan application, however. In that case, your only choice for a loan is to turn to a public charity or a payday loan center. Public charities sometimes dispense money for urgent medical costs, but you should not count on this. Loan centers will dispense money if you can prove you have an income, but they charge outrageous interests rates and you should avoid them if at all possible.
  
  

Work Out a Payment Plan with Your Dentist

• Talk to your dentist. If you have a good rapport, and especially if you have a history as a patient there, the dentist or secretary may be willing to defer some or all of your payment for any care you urgently need.