For some students, visiting the dentist is no big deal financially. Children’s Dental, a non-profit organization, provides dental services to students who are unable to afford the cost of dental work.

Junior Lexie McChesney, who regularly goes to her recommended dentist appointment every six-eight months, said the opportunity Children’s Dental offers to students is beneficial for those who cannot pay for dental insurance.

“A lot of people don’t give oral health the credit it deserves and this organization opens up opportunities for those who want dental care, but have never been able to afford it,” McChesney said.

Children’s Dental provides low cost and free oral care to students on Fridays once a month out of their Central Community Center location.

Childrens’  main clinic,  located in Northeast Minneapolis since 1919, operates as a non-profit organization.

It provides all types of dental work: simple cleanings,  cavity fillings and root canals at minimal cost.

Park Dental dentist Dr. Ira Rabinowitz said services  dentists provide are more than can be done at home with  a toothbrush, mouthwash and  occasional floss.

“The main reason to visit the dentist is because dentists have specialized equipment designed to remove plaque, tartar and bacteria all around the tooth,” Rabinowitz said.

Close partner with Children’s Leigh Abrahamson said as a retired high school social worker this ability to receive low-cost dental care  is  a rare opportunity for students.

“I know that it is very hard to find low cost dental service in the area, and Children’s is the only program in the Twin Cities that does this,” Abrahamson said.

Students who are interested in scheduling an appointment with Children’s Dental can register in the counseling office, or call the clinic at (612)-746-1530.