EXTENDING QUALITY HEALTH CARE TO LOCAL COMMUNITIES

Community Outreach

Portable Dentistry Program

At the IWS Children’s Clinic, our mission is to advance the health and well-being of all children in need. Portable Dentistry is just one way we fulfill this mission. Our Portable Dentistry program brings this critical care into local communities for children who do not have a regular dental provider.

Each year, we visit close to 30 schools and treat over 1,000 children. We are grateful for the grants we receive to support this service.

What We Do

Throughout the academic year, The Children’s Clinic sends a dental team, consisting of a dentist and two dental assistants, to public and private schools in the Chicagoland area. We also send a coordinator who ensures each child feels safe and comfortable. We set up onsite in the school library, lunchroom or nurse’s office.

Our Portable Dentistry Services

Through Portable Dentistry, students, pre-K to 8th grade:

• Receive free dental exams through Portable Dentistry regardless of their insurance status. (This includes the opportunity to get their state-mandated dental exams).
• Obtain a dental cleaning, fluoride varnish, and dental sealants if covered by Medicaid.

We Build Relationships

Through Portable Dentistry, students, pre-K to 8th grade:

• After receiving care, students get a goody bag with stickers, informational handouts, and a new toothbrush.
• Parents receive a description of their child’s dental services and the condition of their child’s teeth.
• Clinic staff make follow-up calls to all children with urgent treatment needs, like advanced cavities and abscesses, urging parents to schedule a restorative dental appointment.

Community Outreach

Through community outreach, we expand our impact, educate underserved families, and share our resources with the community.

Each year, we distribute health information to hundreds of individuals at outreach events across Chicagoland communities.

Get In Touch

To learn more or schedule a visit with our Portable Dental Program, email Audrey Greffin, Director of Grants & Outreach, at agreffin@oprfiws.org.