“We're facing a ‘silent epidemic' of oral disease in this country because of a lack of available dental care, especially in rural areas and for the most vulnerable among us. Children have died because of infections brought on by the absence of dental services,” said Obey, the Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee.  “That's why we've made improving access to dental care a priority in next year's budget, and why dental clinics, like the Chippewa Dental Center, are so important.  They help provide affordable dental care to thousands of Northwestern Wisconsin residents who would otherwise find it difficult or impossible to reach a dentist they could afford.”

The Dental Center, located adjacent to St. Joseph's Hospital and across the road from the Lake Wissota Business Park, has 30 stations, staffed by six general dentists, two oral surgeons, and six hygienists.  It is currently recruiting for two full-time pediatric dentists.  The Clinic accepts all patients, regardless of ability to pay, and will be specifically targeting veterans, the disabled, children, and individuals whose dental problems present a barrier to employment.  Marshfield Clinic anticipates the Clinic will provide about 10,000 patient visits in the first year of operation, rising to about 18,000 visits in subsequent years.

The Chippewa Dental Center is the Clinic's third dental clinic and joins Ladysmith Dental Center and Owen Dental Center, which provide general family dentistry and dental hygiene services. These dental centers were launched through collaboration that includes Marshfield Clinic, Family Health Center of Marshfield and federal and state agencies, in order to address the growing need for dental care in underserved areas.

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