ROCHESTER, Minn. (ABC 6 News) — Children’s Dental Health Services (CDHS), a nonprofit organization known for providing vital dental care across southern Minnesota, has opened a new clinic in Rochester aimed at reaching more underserved children.
For nearly two decades, CDHS has served over 4,000 children each year through a combination of school-based programs, mobile units, and permanent locations. With the launch of this new site, the organization hopes to expand its impact even further.
The clinic, now located outside the United Way building, has doubled its dental chair capacity—from three to six. This expansion allows CDHS to aim for an additional 1,000 patients annually. Most of those served are children who either have no insurance or are enrolled in medical assistance programs.
“There is a provider shortage across the nation, but it’s especially challenging here in Minnesota,” said Sarah Hayes Anderson, executive director of CDHS. “Children on medical assistance are particularly vulnerable. Our goal is to improve access to care, and the more kids we serve, the closer we get to fulfilling our mission.”
The organization’s vision for growth doesn’t stop at six chairs. The new facility includes six more treatment rooms that remain unfinished. CDHS plans to complete and open those rooms in the future, which would significantly increase its capacity to serve even more children in need.