u/Charming-Ad2536

Hi, kind people of Madison.

I'm a grad student with limited dental insurance. I was very recently told during a dental checkup that I have over ten cavities. I want to get a second opinion, but I can't afford to use my already limited dental insurance. It's imperative that I get a second opinion because I have been quoted a fairly substantial amount to get the cavities fixed, and I have also been recommended to get a tooth cleanup that could cost over 300 dollars.

Could anyone help please?

I have been a PhD student for about two years now. When I first joined my program, I felt that I was an excellent fit, but over time, my research has drifted quite far from where I initially started. My PI was initially very supportive, but as she became busier writing her book, she became increasingly absent and, at times, difficult to work with. She rarely reads anything I send her, and I have also seen her speak negatively about other advisees. At this point, I feel that I receive very little support or guidance.

I have thought about switching advisors, but I have no idea who I could switch to or whether doing so this far into the program would be feasible. I am also very afraid that if this situation continues, I will never be able to establish myself in my field. I feel quite lost and would really appreciate some advice on how to navigate this.