Maine Man Struggles to Find Dentist After Tooth Breaks

Retired carpenter James Grancio has been unable to get dental care for a broken tooth for over 2 weeks.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 7:37am

A translucent, ghostly X-ray photograph showing the internal structure of a damaged human tooth, with cracks and fractures visible in the enamel and dentin, conveying the concept of a broken tooth in need of professional dental treatment.An X-ray image reveals the internal damage of a broken tooth, highlighting the urgent need for dental care in rural communities.Linneus Today

James Grancio, a 60-year-old retired carpenter living in Linneus, Maine, broke a tooth about two weeks ago while using his teeth to pry open a food container lid. However, Grancio has been unable to find a dentist who can see him and treat the broken tooth.

Why it matters

The story highlights the ongoing challenges many Americans face in accessing affordable and timely dental care, especially in rural areas where dentist shortages are common. Grancio's situation reflects broader issues around the lack of dental insurance coverage and the high costs of dental procedures that prevent people from getting the care they need.

The details

Grancio broke his incisor tooth to the immediate right of his front tooth while using his teeth to open a food container. He has been unable to find a dentist who can see him and treat the broken tooth, despite calling around to multiple dental offices in the area.

  • Grancio broke his tooth about 2 weeks ago.

The players

James Grancio

A 60-year-old retired carpenter living in Linneus, Maine who recently broke a tooth.

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What they’re saying

“I'm like, 'But I broke my tooth what am I going to do?'”

— James Grancio

The takeaway

Grancio's struggle to find a dentist to treat his broken tooth underscores the need for greater investment in rural healthcare infrastructure and policies that improve dental insurance coverage and affordability for all Americans, regardless of their location or income level.