Starting kindergarten is a big milestone. Along with school supplies and paperwork, California requires a dental check-up for children entering public school for the first time.
At Kids Dental Pals in Simi Valley, we make this visit easy, kid-friendly, and stress-free for the whole family.
What Is the Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment?
California’s Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment is a basic dental exam for children entering public school for the first time.
During this visit, we:
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Perform a gentle oral exam
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Check teeth and gums
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Look for cavities or early concerns
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Review overall oral development
If your school provides an assessment form, we can help complete it during your child’s visit.
Important: Many schools require the completed form by May 31 of your child’s first school year. If you are unsure about deadlines or paperwork, bring what you have and we will help you sort it out.
What to Expect During a Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment (KOHA)
Here’s what happens when your child comes in for Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment (KOHA):
Gentle Visual Evaluation:
We carefully examine your child’s teeth and gums to check for cavities, early decay, and overall oral health using a gentle, kid-friendly approach.
School Form Completion:
If your child’s school provided a Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment form, we’ll complete and sign it during your visit so you can submit it with confidence.
No Pain, No Stress:
This assessment is quick and comfortable. There’s no drilling, no shots, and no discomfort — just a simple check-up designed to keep kids at ease.
Oral Health Guidance:
We talk with you and your child about brushing habits, cavity prevention, and ways to keep teeth healthy as they start school.
Why This Dental Check-Up Matters
It’s easy to think baby teeth aren’t a big deal—but they are. Healthy baby teeth support:
- comfortable eating and sleeping
- clear speech development
- confidence at school and with friends
- proper spacing for adult teeth
Dental discomfort can also affect focus and classroom performance, and tooth problems are a common reason kids miss school.
This early check-up helps set your child up for a strong start.
Why Choose Kids Dental Pals & Orthodontics?
We’re dedicated to providing gentle, modern dentistry tailored to your child’s comfort.
- Kid-Focused Dental Team: Our team works exclusively with children, helping them feel comfortable, confident, and supported during their visit.
- Gentle, Preventive Approach: We focus on early detection and prevention, checking for small issues before they become bigger concerns.
- Quick and Comfortable Visits: The assessment is fast, pain-free, and designed to fit easily into your busy schedule — no drilling or shots.
- School Form Support: Bring your school’s Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment form and we’ll help complete and sign it during your visit.
How To Support Your Child’s Health After the Assesment
While the kindergarten oral health assessment is quick and simple, consistent home care plays a big role in keeping your child’s smile healthy as they start school:
- Brush Twice Daily: Help your child brush morning and night using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Limit Sugary Snacks and Drinks: Frequent sugar intake fuels cavity-causing bacteria. Encourage water, balanced meals, and healthy snacks when possible.
- Keep Up With Regular Dental Visits: Routine check-ups allow us to monitor your child’s oral development and catch small issues early.
- Follow Any Personalized Recommendations: If we suggest specific home care tips or future visits, following them helps support long-term oral health and confidence.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment Required in California?
Yes. California requires children entering public school for the first time to complete an oral health assessment. Most schools require the completed form by May 31 of your child’s first school year.
Does the Assessment Hurt?
No. The assessment is completely pain-free. There is no drilling, no shots, and no treatment performed unless it’s needed and discussed with you first.
What If My Child Has Never Been to the Dentist Before?
That’s perfectly okay. Many children complete their first dental visit during this assessment. Our team is experienced in helping kids feel comfortable and confident during their appointment.
Does My Child Need Treatment During This Visit?
This visit is an assessment only. If we notice any concerns, we’ll explain them clearly and discuss next steps. There’s no pressure to move forward with treatment unless it’s truly needed.
Schedule Your Child’s Appointment Today
If your child has early-stage decay, drill-free cavity repair offers a painless, stress-free solution. At Kids Dental Pals & Orthodontics, we’re here to strengthen smiles with comfort-first care.
Call us today or book online to schedule your child’s consultation.Let’s catch cavities early and protect their smile with ease!
