Preventing Dental Decay

Dental decay, sometimes called cavities or caries, is the softening of tooth enamel and can create a hole. Decay happens when plaque breaks down sugars in the mouth and forms an acid.

Plaque is a sticky film that lays on the teeth and forms daily. Brushing twice a day and flossing often can stop plaque from forming on teeth. Watching your diet by limiting sugary drinks, candy and starchy foods can help stop the decay process from starting.

CPS School-Based Dental Services

CDPH partners with Chicago Public Schools (CPS) to provide students Pre-K through twelfth with access to dental services at no cost to families, including:

• Dental exam/screening
• Oral prophylaxis (dental cleaning) on all erupted tooth surfaces
• Fluoride varnish treatment on all erupted tooth surfaces
• Dental sealants (as prescribed/determined by dentist)
• Dental referral and case management for extended care for students who need additional dental care outside of the school program
• Dental education for children

Plaque is a sticky film that lays on the teeth and forms daily. Brushing twice a day and flossing often can stop plaque from forming on teeth. Watching your diet by limiting sugary drinks, candy and starchy foods can help stop the decay process from starting.

Find a Dentist

It's important to establish a relationship with a dentist who can provide regular checkups to ensure children get the dental care they need as their teeth develop. Using our resource finder, you can search for a clinic based on name, location, hours of operation, languages spoken, and acceptance of Medicaid.