Grundy Reporter

The Will County Health Department & Community Health Center will soon provide dental care on the go.  

“Will County Community Dental Van is visiting the Grundy County Health Department!” Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Morris) posted on Facebook. 

The van will be at the Grundy County Health Department's parking lot on June 2, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Individuals must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and must make an appointment by calling 815-941-3404.

Will County isn’t the only place home to mobile dental care. The Mobile Dental Program in Chicago provides care to hundreds of children.

“Mobile Care’s Dental Program is a comprehensive dental clinic that has the same features and services as a brick-and-mortar practice in higher-income communities, with the capability to perform X-rays, complex restorative procedures, educate on oral care, and of course, provide routine cleanings,” it said on its website. “The mobile nature of the program breaks down the most common barriers of access to dental services for children across the Chicagoland area.”

The mobile dental van is equipped with digital x-ray technology, computers and two dental chairs. 

The program launched in 2011.

“When your oral health is suffering, it can decrease the quality of your life or exacerbate mental health issues,” Dr. Susan Albers told the Cleveland Clinic's Health Essentials newsletter. “If you feel embarrassed about the health of your teeth, you may notice that this triggers some social anxiety. You may withdraw. Or it may hurt your self-esteem. This can lead to an increase in some of your mental health symptoms."

“Dentists are very willing to help,” Albers told Health Essentials. “They’ve seen signs and symptoms of conditions before. And a dentist and therapist working together can help you to work on your mental health issues, and protect your oral health and overall health.”

These services are provided through a grant from the United Way of Will County.