ROCKFORD, Ill. — Rockford Public Schools has launched a Direct Dental Service at The QUAD, providing students with easier access to dental care and hygiene services.
“This clinic is unique. There’s no other one like it that I know of. This place stood empty, and we saw an opportunity to create a dental clinic,” said Dr. H. Cyrus Oates, chairman, founder, and practicing dentist.
The clinic offers free services to qualifying students, including X-rays, fillings, and cleanings. District staff transport students to and from their appointments, addressing both accessibility and affordability issues.
“Access to care is the main challenge in dentistry. Having a facility where students can receive treatment is life-changing for some people,” Dr. Oates said.
John Cusimano, principal of The QUAD, noted that dental issues were the second-leading cause of student absences in the district. He emphasized the clinic’s broader benefits, including boosting self-esteem, confidence, and overall quality of life for students.
“We want to provide students in need a positive experience that prepares them for the next step in their lives,” Cusimano said.
Dr. Oates highlighted that the facility has room to expand but stressed the need for additional dental professionals. “We would love to have one full-time dentist and others who could volunteer one or two days a week,” he said.
The new clinic aims to reduce barriers to dental care while supporting students’ health and academic success.