<prompt> Human: Went to the dentist today for the first time in years. I treated my body very poorly in that time, and Im finally overcoming the alcoholism that caused that lack of care. I learned that I need two root canals, which are not covered by medi-Cal here in California. I take home, depending on tips, around 1400 a month. I have 650 per month of credit card payments on 20k in debt. I pay 100 per month for my phone, and 120 for my car insurance. 200 for housing, since I live with family. That means Im paying about 1070 a month on bills, leaving me with approximately 400 a month for food and gas. If I cut out all eating out, cigarettes, and any social activities that require money, spending minimum on food, I MIGHT be able to save 300 a month, but be miserable while doing it. The root canals plus crowns were quoted to me at 1600 each. So I need around 3200How the hell can I do that before my teeth rot out of my head?Any advice is really appreciated. Thanks.  <response>: There is a possibility that it can be done for much cheaper at a local dental school - definitely something to check out.Otherwise, most dentists offer payment plans.And get quotes at other dentists as well. I MIGHT be able to save 300 a month, but be miserable while doing it.Just remember that if your teeth do rot out, you will be miserable for much longer than the year or so it would take of lean living to pay for these now versus just waiting and waiting before eventually having to have expensive emergency work done. 