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One year down and we’re all smiles!

Chestnut Family Dental in Bloomington, IL is celebrating its one-year anniversary. 

Since opening its doors in May 2024, staff have seen 942 patients for 2,156 visits.

In line with the Chestnut’s mission, staff focuses on underserved patients:

• 76 percent were covered by Medicaid
• 88 percent live at or below 200% of federal poverty guidelines
• 16 percent are Spanish speaking

With 942 smiles, there comes 942 stories. Here are a few:

A valuable referral
One patient was living in her car struggling to find employment, and unsure what her next steps should be. The dental team observed her situation and referred her to Chestnut community health workers for assistance with housing. Less than a year later, the patient returned for an appointment.

After her appointment, she stopped at the front desk and said, "Last time I was here, I was not in a good place. I would not have gotten the help I needed if it weren't for you. I was able to get housing, a job, and insurance. So, thank you so much!"

She also said, "I was so excited I could come back here again!" When asked what her plans were for the future, she shared, "I am starting nursing school in the fall."

It takes a team

Another case centered on a pediatric patient shows the importance of interprofessional collaboration.  The patient presented with an impacted permanent front tooth and crowding. Due to the complexity of the case, Chestnut dentist, Dr. Anne Koehne, was able to enlist a local multidisciplinary team that included an orthodontist and oral surgeon to accomplish the treatment.

A special event

In March, the office hosted “Give Kids a Smile,” an event promoted by The American Dental Association. The Chestnut Family Dental team, along with Dr. Bianca Sciarresi Urzua from Everyone’s Family Dental, provided free dental services to children and teens 18 years and under. Dental exams, cleanings, and fluoride treatments were provided for 52 McLean County children.

A few positive reviews the dental team has received

• I love the Dentistry at Chestnut! [It’s] better than most places in Bloomington-Normal that accept the medical card [Medicaid]. Very clean waiting room and exam rooms. [The] staff is very nice.
• Never before have I ENJOYED being at the dentist! I have a HUGE fear of the dentist normally but the employees here were PHENOMENAL! I'm actually looking forward to my next appointment instead of dreading it! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
• The atmosphere and all the employees are so respectful, kind, and loving. I would recommend Chestnut Dental to anyone. I love all of you guys and thank you for being the people that you are –  don't let anything or anyone change that.
• Phenomenal Team! 🤩

The state-of-the-art dental facility is located at 720 West Chestnut Street, Bloomington and serves patients in McLean county. The office accepts a variety of insurance, including Medicaid. Like other Chestnut services, discounted fees are available to those without insurance. Operating hours will be Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. To schedule an appointment call (888) 924-3786.

About the Author

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Chestnut Health Systems

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Chestnut offers a comprehensive scope of behavioral health and human services in Illinois and Missouri. Our professional and experienced staff is committed to providing high-quality care and services to the communities we serve. From drug and alcohol addiction treatment facilities (residential and outpatient) to primary care medical homes, to a research institute, Chestnut continuously works to achieve its mission to make a difference and improve quality of life through excellence in service.

If you or someone you love needs help, we can help. It all starts with a phone call. In central Illinois call 888.924.3786 and in southern Illinois/Meto East area call 618.877.4420.