Dental Exams
The school-based dental program in partnership with the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) provides all consented students with access to dental exams at no cost to families. Exams are comprehensive and include dental cleaning, fluoride treatment, dental sealants as necessary, and referral for treatment services if needed. If your child has a private dentist, he/she may still participate in this school-based dental program.
Illinois law requires all Kindergarten, 2nd grade, 6th grade, and 9th grade students to have a dental exam completed by a licensed dentist before May 15 of the school year.
Sign Up for an Exam
To receive no-cost dental services at school, fill out and return the Dental Consent Form linked below to your student's school.
If your student already has a provider and you do not want them to participate in our the CPS dental program, fill out the Proof of Dental Examination form linked below and return it to your student’s school.
Fight Cavities with Silver Diamine Fluoride
Dental cavities are common in children, but now our dentists have a safe, painless alternative to traditional cavity drilling procedures called silver diamine fluoride (SDF). SDF is an FDA-approved antibiotic liquid used to help prevent cavities from growing or spreading to other teeth. The dentist simply brushes SDF on the decayed area of the tooth only. Our consent forms will now have SDF as an option with signature if parents decide they want SDF treatment done for their child.
For more information about SDF, read our FAQ below. Learn more about protecting your teeth by watching Fluoride: The Superhero of Cavity Fighting.
Find a Dental Clinic
To find low-cost and no-cost dental services near you, search for dental clinics on the Chicago Dental Society website.
Health Centers and Clinics
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School-Based Health Centers
School-based health centers are primary health care sites located in schools or nearby schools. Services include but are not limited to: immunizations, physical exams, sports physicals, behavioral healthcare, chronic condition management, sexual and reproductive health care, and acute care. Students can access health services at no out-of-pocket cost. Most services require parent or caregiver consent. Some SBHCs are available to the community and to neighboring schools. Call ahead before making an appointment.
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Community Health Clinics
Federally Qualified Health Centers provide comprehensive, culturally competent, high-quality primary health care services as well as supportive services such as health education, translation, and transportation that promote access to health care. Centers provide services regardless of a patient’s ability to pay and charge for services on a sliding fee scale.