Due to the inability to afford a dental plan, I had gone several years without any sort of dental coverage. At first, I did not realize the extent of the damage to my teeth. It was only after I was finally able to see a dentist, that I learned how much my teeth had deteriorated over the years due to the lack of dental care. After many visits to the dentist and several extractions my dental health is back to normal. If it weren’t for Medicaid, I still would not have dental care and would have lost a lot more teeth. However, when all was said and done, I had a total of eight missing teeth, leaving me with gaps in my smile and minimal self-confidence.
The loss of my teeth had a devastating impact on my self-esteem. I have recently gone back to school, but didn’t feel confident participating or interacting with other students. When I was in situations that required me to collaborate and work with other students, I was self-conscious opening my mouth or smiling. I’ve always been someone that likes to laugh and actively contribute so losing the confidence was demoralizing.
Since receiving dental coverage under Medicaid, things have turned around for me. I have had several crowns, as well as, two dental bridges and a partial, giving me a nearly full set of teeth and a smile that I am proud of. In addition, all the treatment I have needed has been very affordable.
The way you feel about yourself can have a tremendous impact on your outlook on life. My confidence has returned and I’m in a better place because of it. The state of my teeth no longer holds me back when I am in public. I feel like I can truly reach my full potential, whether it is the classroom, my job, or social gatherings.
– Christopher Smith, Sterling
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