Hello,
My backround:
I live in the western NY area outside of Buffalo. I have severe
cardiomyopathy (13% ejection fraction) as well as implanted
defribulator/pacemaker combination as well as pulmonary sarcoidosis and
obstructive sleep apnea. Positive side is I have the will to fight as hard
to keep alive as any pro boxer has to win a bout.

The Problem:
the 10 or so teeth I have left are in such bad condition, they are neither
worth nor capable of being saved according to my dentist who I trust very
much. There is constant infections in my teeth and gums which at some point
is likely to enter the pericardium and heart (not to mention constant pain).
and at that point the survival rate is quite low and I believe uery
unpleasant route to meet St. Peter as I was with a friend in 1978 with
similar (though not as bad as mine) problems. as he passed away after
numerous strokes left him existing but not living. That memory haunts me as
I wouldn't wish such a demise on anyone.

The Question:
Does anyone have any idea on the rough cost (within about A THOUSAND
DOLLARS) on the following options (no insurance, all out of pocket):
1.    Removal of remaining teeth and having dentures made.
2.    Removal of remaining teeth and having all permanent implants screwed
in.
3.    Removal of remaining teeth and having a combination of some implants,
connected at strategic points with permantly fastened bridges.

ALL WELL WISHERS WITHE INTEREST OF SAVING ME MONEY: SO YOU KNOW THAT I HAVE
ALREADY APPROACHED THE UNIVERSITY OF BUFFALO DENTAL SCHOOL WHICH IS A HIGHLY
RESPECTED PART OF OUR LOCAL ACADEMIC COMMUNITY AND THEY WON'T TOUCH ME WITH
A 30 FOOT POLE. I have to understand this as it would permanently scar a
dental student to have a patient die in his chair even though no fault of
his/her doing.

Finally:
If there is anyone out here that has any constructive thoughts, ideas,
suggestions or EVEN a recomendation for someone in the Erie County New York
area who can serve my needs, It would be very gratefully appreciated. I
don't have much money besides a small pension and SS disability. Problem
comes in that, on paper at least, I make slightly more (less than $100.00 I
believe) to qualify for Medicaid which would assist tremendously. I do have
Medicare and Independent health bu neither deal with dental issues and I
have been turned down by both at application as well as two each appeals.

Pleas know I appreciate you taking your valuable time to hear my plea for
help. I want to see my kids get married and grow old with my wife after
seeing the few things (some scenery and some engineering marvels). I am only
53 years old.

God Bless,

Sincerely,
Raymond A. Miller
radioman@localnet.com