Hi! Everyone,
I was recently at the dentist for the first time in 5 YEARS!! And I have a great dentist. I was lucky! No problems, but he counseled me kindly about the importance of routine care..... he explainded that autoimmune disease can cause inflammation in your gums, and that chronic prednisone use can cause dental problems. Sjogren's Disease, with reduced saliva production is something he also commented on, (that my oral mucous looked nice and moist), my rheumy asks about tears and saliva, too. I made another appt. already. 
And besides my fear of going, I have metal fillings in just about every tooth, and he reassured me of their safety when I asked about mercury poisoning. I couldn't believe it was that long, but I was working full time, sick all the time, struggling to juggle neuro, rheumy, pcp, and work appts. and had one 1 1/2 year period when I had a dr. appt every 2-3 months. And did I mention sick? I ask friends and family to imagine living daily feeling like you have been slammed by the 'flu and that you can't get over it.
Please don't wait to get dental care, unfortunately, the problem isn't likely to get better. Hugs, suetoo
ps. many good dentists offer low or no interest payment plans, and could you look into a nearby School of Dentristy? Call several dental offices and ask where the dentist went to school, or ask the receptionist/hygenists for their advice. You should be able to find good quality, completely dentist and education/health dept. supervised care on the cheap because students are watching, and as their training years increase, doing some of the work. Trust me that the care is of the highest quality. Good Luck and Wellness.