TLDR: I'm 28, male, and without insurance. I have tooth pain and need dental work done. I went to the closest dentist too me and they quoted me an insane amount that I just can not afford. Now I'm looking for cheap recommendations.

I went to the closest dentist to me about 6 months ago because I experiencing horrible tooth pain. I take good care of my teeth now but years of neglect must of taken a toll on them. They quoted me $16,000 dollars worth of work they wanted to do. I said I could only do the bare minimum that would stop the pain and that was $4,000. Well now my tooth pain is back and I'm searching for cheaper alternatives.

I was looking at dentist schools located in Houston as I believe that will be my cheapest option. If anyone has any experience with them I'd love to hear from you.

edit: I'm open to other options besides dentist schools. I just figured that would be the most cost effective way to go.