I saved up to get my teeth cleaned and get some whitening done. I was disappointed when the dentist told me I needed some other work done before the whitening. I have two cavities. One of them so big I need a crown. I can’t afford this. Now, even if I find a way to pay for the work I don’t want, I can’t get my teeth whitened. I’m really disappointed. Can I get the teeth whitened, if my teeth aren’t bothering me?

Maddie K. – Florida

Maddie,

It must be terribly disappointing to you. Here you thought you were finally going to get a bright, new smile and instead you’re stuck spending your money on maintenance for your teeth.

Hopefully, you’re working with an affordable dentist who will work with you financially. There is a way to stage your treatment so you don’t have to pay for all of it at once. Your dentist could list the most important treatment first and work your way down. I suspect it would be the tooth that needs a crown.

Some dentists even give free teeth whitening to new patients. your dentist may be willing to cut you a deal on on the whitening at the end of your treatment, because of all hte money you’ve had to spend. I can’t speak for him or her, of course, but it won’t hurt you to ask.

This blog is brought to you by Phoenix Dentist Dr. Kevin Peck.