|
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental
| 1. How do I qualify for your services?
|
The following services are available by the Dental Health Unit for residents
of DuPage County:
- Dental Education Programs for any
individuals or groups *
- Oral Health Screenings for Schools or
Organizations *
- Fluoride Mouthrinse Program in the Schools *
- School Based Sealant Program
- Fabrication of Mouthguards for Schools or
Organizations *
- Access to low-cost dental care
- DuPage Dental Care Referral Program for
those who need dental care and meet income guidelines
- Oral health screenings, education and
referrals for care are provided at the Health Departments Children's
Clinics for those who meet income guidelines
- Urgent Care Dental Clinic
* There are not income
guidelines for use of these services
2. County water contain fluoride?
Much of DuPage County has Lake Michigan water piped
in, or municipality water, which does contain fluoride.
The recommended level of fluoride in water is one part per million.
Fluoride obtained systemically through water can help to make developing teeth
stronger. Fluoride that is topically applied through toothpaste, fluoride
treatments, or mouthrinses helps to remineralize or restrengthen
any areas of the tooth weakened by acids, which can lead to decay. Both
types of fluorides are beneficial for growing children. If you have
private or well water, it is recommended that you collect a sample of water and
bring it to our Wheaton office laboratory to be tested for
fluoride. If you have water delivered to your home or have an at-home water
filtration system, it is recommended that you have your water tested, since
many of the filtration systems
available may take out fluoride.
3. What is a dental sealant and why should my
child have them?
A sealant is a clear or white plastic coating applied to the
chewing surfaces of the back teeth to help protect those teeth from
decay. Sealants protect the pits and
grooves of the back teeth from the bacteria that may cause cavities. The application of a sealant is a
quick and painless procedure. Children with newly erupted permanent
molars or premolars are excellent candidates for sealants. Sealants can
only be applied to cavity free surfaces.
Therefore, it is important to have sealants applied to the teeth as soon as possible.
4. Where can I obtain immediate dental
treatment?
For those individuals
who meet income guidelines enrollment is available in the DuPage Dental Care
Referral Program. The Dental Health Services Unit will determine eligibility. The unit will do a
preliminary dental screening and make a referral to a participating area
dentist.
5. Can you provide dental education to my
group?
Dental education
programs are available to individuals or groups in DuPage County. The Dental Health Services Unit is also able
to participate in health fairs. During programs and health fairs
oral health information is provided based on the need of the group.
Information is distributed and individuals are involved in various
activities to enhance their oral health knowledge.
6. Could you provide a list of dentists that
accept Public Aid?
Information regarding access to a dentist who accepts Public
Aid can be obtained by calling Doral Dental at (888)286-2447.
7. What is a protective mouthguard? Who should wear them? How do I
clean my mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a mouth
protector that is plastic and form fitted to cover the upper teeth. Mouthguards help prevent injury to the mouth
area especially the teeth, lips, cheek and tongue. There are many
different types of mouthguards available.
The boil and bite type is available at sporting goods stores.
This type of mouthguard is stock made and formed to an individual mouth at home. Your dentist makes the
custom mouthguard. He takes an impression of your mouth and the
mouthguard fits only you. Any adult or child involved in recreational or
sporting activities that may pose a risk of injury to the mouth can
obtain protection by
wearing this important safety device.
Clean your mouthguard
after wearing it by washing with mild soap in warm (not hot) water and rinse in cold water. Always store your mouthguard in a container or plastic bag when not wearing it. Do not leave
your mouthguard in direct sunlight or in a hot car. Heat will warp
your mouthguard. Do not put your mouthguard on coffee tables, the
floor or in napkins. It could get discarded,
stepped on or chewed up by your pet. Never wear or handle someone else's mouthguard.
8. Can you assist with locating a dentist that
provides care to my
homebound, handicapped relative?
For information on dentists who provide dental treatment call
the Chicago Dental Society at (312)836-7300 or the Illinois Foundation of Dentistry for the
Handicapped at (312)440-8976.
9. Why is treatment necessary for baby teeth?
Baby or primary teeth are just as important as permanent
teeth. Some primary teeth may remain in your child's mouth until he or
she is twelve years old. Besides contributing to efficient chewing, clear
speech and pleasant appearance, primary teeth also help guide the
erupting permanent teeth into proper position. If a primary tooth is
lost prematurely, adjacent teeth may tilt or drift from their
original position. This will prevent the normal eruption of underlying permanent
teeth. Orthodontic problems can begin in this manner.
10. Where can I obtain a free dental school
exam?
Free dental school screening can be done during a
child's school physical at the Children's Clinics conducted at various
Health Department locations. Income guidelines must be met to receive an
appointment at these clinics. To make an appointment for these clinics
call Central Intake at (630)682-7400.
|
