I don't think cleaning them is going to make them grow back or reverse the decay that's already happened. My dental health is the result of not having dental insurance for most of my life.

I brush three times a day and I quit drinking soda and eating candy a while ago.

>Grow up and do something about it.

Uhh.. I am.

>get over your social anxiety and meet people who will pay you.

I'm doing what I can. I plan on building a "resume" over the summer.

Just so you're aware, even though it sounded like it, I was not complaining about my situation. I'm not looking for help, just thought I'd add my perspective to the thread.

I actually don't think I would change much about my early life at all. Part of me feels that if I hadn't struggled with being poor I would not have had the motivation to become a programmer, and I enjoy programming.

One thing to keep in mind is that there are many places around the world that have excellent dentists at far cheaper prices than you will get in the USA.

I know a few people in the UK who have travelled abroad for cosmetic dental work as it saved them thousands.

Edit - here's the kind of prices you get in Eastern Europe http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/private-treatment-abroad/which-co...

Though it may be cheaper for you to try and find somewhere in Central America, or the Caribbean.

Thanks. I've considered traveling abroad to save money, but I'm weary of the quality of work that I'll get. Once I'm ready to have work done I plan on closely examining my options.

St Martin in the French Caribbean has a good reputation. Private dental work is very good in many places around the world. I know two people who had their teeth fixed while they were in India and they both had excellent work done.

edit - You could maybe find another reason to travel, one that you can get some sort of help with. Say you want to study the background of The Martians http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Martians_%28group%29 and try to blag a flight to Budapest.

You have stated exactly what the commenter needs to accomplish without a single consideration as to how to change their mind to do so, which in this case is likely the more pressing issue.

Instead of telling someone who is doing X and failing to stop doing X and start wining, it might be more helpful to suggest a realistic next action. In this case, perhaps apply to some very local universities for a CS degree, keep family close, and research community dental clinics with affordable payment plans.

Comments like yours deserve a lifetime ban. You seriously do not have to be so rude. You don't have to take it personally. And you don't have to make it personal.

Presumably there's jawline issues (overbite) and the teeth aren't properly aligned, besides the hygiene. Those invariably require long-term dental intervention, as I have personally experienced.

Now here is some helpful and caring advice.

Sigh.