Regular dental exams are an important part of overall preventive health care for children. In addition to teeth being cleaned, x-rayed and evaluated for risk of tooth decay, sealants and fluoride treatments may also be applied to molars as protective measures against tooth decay. During the course of the exam, either the dentist or a hygienist will likely discuss diet and oral hygiene habits with you and your child, and demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques. Discussions about the health risks associated with tobacco, substance abuse, poor diet, eating disorders, and oral piercings may also be discussed with older children and adolescents, as well as recommending use of a mouth guard while participating in contact sports. Several factors may determine the frequency of dental exams, including age, general health and risk of tooth decay, but the average recommendation is twice yearly, or every six months.
The State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), adminstered under MinnesotaCare, helps children up to the age of nineteen receive dental care who might otherwise not be able to afford it. Income limits do apply. Contact the MinnesotaCare main office at (651) 297-3862 for more information about benefits and how to apply.
Other nonprofit organizations and agencies that provide free and low cost dental and dental hygiene services to uninsured and underinsured children in the Rochester vicinity are:
Children's Dental Health Services
United Way Building
903 West Center Street, Suite 208
Rochester, MN 55902
(507) 529-0436
Rochester Community and Technical College
Heintz Center
1926 Collegeview Road S.E.
Rochester, MN 55904
(507) 280-3169
Salvation Army's Good Samaritan Dental Clinic
120 North Broadway, Suite B
Rochester, MN 55906
(507) 529-4100
Main Street Dental Clinics
3142 Wellner Dr. NE
Rochester, MN 55906
Phone (507) 536-7700
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