Fayetteville, N.C. — The Cumberland County Health Department's dental clinic is accepting new patients ages 21 and under in an effort to combat childhood tooth decay, county officials said Wednesday.

The clinic provides general dental services, including fillings, sealants, fluoride treatments, tooth extractions and oral cleanings, as well as dietary counseling and emergency care.

Dr. Russell Holderness, the clinic's dental director, said that tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children in the United States.

"It is five times more common than asthma and seven times more common than hay fever," he said in a news release. "The good news is that tooth decay is almost always preventable."

Fees are assessed on a sliding scale, and new patients should bring W-2 forms or other proof of income. The minimum payment is $10.

The clinic, located in suite 1800 at 1235 Ramsey St. in Fayetteville, accepts third-party insurance, including Medicaid and Health Choice.