On November 6, Cook County Health (CCH) joined local leaders to cut the ribbon on the opening of a new pediatric dental clinic at its Belmont Cragin Health Center, expanding access to essential oral health care for children on Chicago’s Northwest Side. 

The new clinic, a $1.5 million investment, is part of Cook County Health’s ongoing effort to integrate dental services across its health system and increase access to care. 

“Dental health matters just as much as other health conditions, like asthma or diabetes that impact children,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “Dental pain impacts one’s ability to learn, their ability to speak and smile, and their self-confidence. This is another important step in health equity for Cook County, ensuring that children won’t have to miss school or their afterschool activities because of lack of access to care.” 

According to the American Dental Association, 34 million school hours and 92 million work hours are lost each year due to unplanned dental visits for untreated oral health conditions. CCH’s investment in community-based dental services that are interwoven into our health clinics aims to prevent those outcomes and improve lifelong health through early intervention and preventive care. 

“Across Cook County too many families still struggle to find affordable dental care,” stated Raul Garza, Chair of the Cook County Health Board of Directors. “This new clinic will ensure the children in this community have a trusted place where they can go to see a dentist close to home. It’s an investment in their future and in the brighter smiles and the health of every child that walks through the doors of the Belmont Cragin clinic.” 

“By integrating dental care into more of our clinics, we are caring for children’s overall health, supporting disease prevention and management, and ensuring that cost is not a barrier to the care people need,” said Dr. Erik Mikaitis, CCH CEO. “Together, we are strengthening the health of the communities we serve.” 

The Belmont Cragin pediatric dental clinic will offer a full range of preventive and restorative dental services, including cleanings, exams, X-rays, and minor surgical procedures. It is now open for appointments at the Belmont Cragin Health Center, located at 5501 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60639.