Affordable prices; initial screening exam determines whether your dental concerns fit students' teaching needs — not everyone is accepted as a patient.
Illinois Medicaid covers comprehensive adult dental — exams, cleanings, x-rays, fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions, and dentures — with frequency limits and prior-authorization rules that vary by managed-care plan.
Emergency dental care
For urgent dental needs (e.g. swelling, infection) during clinic hours: UIC College of Dentistry, 801 S. Paulina St., Chicago, IL 60612 — call (312) 996-7555. UIC does not provide after-hours urgent/emergency care; after hours, go to a hospital emergency department.
More ways to save
UIC College of Dentistry and Midwestern University Dental Institute student clinics offer care at discounted rates compared to area dentists.
Chicago Dental Society Foundation Clinic: dental care for low-income residents of DuPage, Cook, and Lake counties, run by all-volunteer dentists.
Dental Lifeline Network (Donated Dental Services) Illinois: free comprehensive dental care for Illinois residents who are 65+, permanently disabled, or medically fragile and lack income; call 888-235-5826.
Midwestern University Dental Institute is in Downers Grove (west suburb, ~20 mi from downtown), not within Chicago city limits; included as the closest second dental-school clinic. The Chicago Department of Public Health runs a school-based oral health program (screenings, cleanings, fluoride, sealants) in CPS schools — kids only, no adult walk-in dental clinic.
5 verified low-cost options are listed above, including UIC College of Dentistry – Patient Clinics, Midwestern University Dental Institute, Christian Community Health Center – Chicago Clinic. Call ahead to confirm eligibility and fees.
Does IL Medicaid cover dental for adults?
Illinois Medicaid covers comprehensive adult dental — exams, cleanings, x-rays, fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions, and dentures — with frequency limits and prior-authorization rules that vary by managed-care plan.
Where do I go for emergency dental care in Chicago?
For urgent dental needs (e.g. swelling, infection) during clinic hours: UIC College of Dentistry, 801 S. Paulina St., Chicago, IL 60612 — call (312) 996-7555. UIC does not provide after-hours urgent/emergency care; after hours, go to a hospital emergency department.
Last checked 2026-10-07. Hours, fees, and eligibility change — call ahead before visiting.
