Resources for Parents
Is your child ready for Kindergarten?
Good Oral Health Improves School Readiness
Starting in the 2024-2025 school year, children entering kindergarten or the first year of school are required to have dental assessments within 6 months prior to the start of school.
[Public Act 316 of 2023]
What is the Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment (KOHA)?
Michigan created the Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment Program (KOHA) to improve school readiness and raise awareness of the importance of good oral health.
Why is it so important?
Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in children.
Children with poor dental health are three times more likely to miss school which can affect grades and overall performance in school.
Get your Child's assessment!
Similar to hearing and vision screenings, the oral health assessment takes no longer than 5 minutes to look for signs of tooth decay or infection by a licensed dental professional at no cost to you.
Looking for a Dentist?
Let us simplify your search! We have gathered a list of dentists who are currently accepting new patients. Just refer to our KOHA (Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment) Dental Referral List.
If you have already visited your dental provider, give your child’s completed dental assessment
to the school before the start of the school year or by Oct.31.
Are you a School, Community Member, or Health Professional?
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FAQ
Dental cavities are the #1 most common childhood illness and cavities can cause pain. Cavities can prevent children from eating and can keep them awake at night and both eating and sleep help children learn. It is important to screen children for health issues before they start school so if they do have cavities, then the cavities can be fixed and children will be well-rested, able to eat, and ready to learn!
A comprehensive oral exam is done by dentist and includes x-rays. An oral health assessment is a visual look in the mouth to identify obvious problems, no x-rays and is done by a Registered Dental Hygienist or Dental Therapist at school or events
Yes, It is Michigan law that children are also screened for hearing and vision, prior to Kindergarten entry. These screenings are conducted to make sure students can see and hear in the classroom, so they are able to learn. It is now required children have a dental assessment before kindergarten or the first year of school.
Assessments will be provided at no cost to you. Please note, insurance may be verified and billed.
This law is specifically for children entering Kindergarten, but it is highly recommended that all children see a dentist at least twice a year.
If you learn your child has a cavity or cavities, they will need to have the cavities filled. A cavity does not stop growing on its own, it will need to be treated by a dentist. The person who completes your students’ assessment or exam will provide you with a list of dentists accepting patients
We can help! My Community Dental Centers is providing assessments for children at community events.
If you have already visited your dental provider, contact them to send your child’s completed dental assessment to the school before the start of the school year or by Oct.31.
If your child is in need of dental care, you can download a list of dental providers to find support above.
See the link above for a list of local dentists accepting referrals and providing treatment.
Assessments will be provided at no cost to you. Please note, insurance may be verified and billed.
There are a variety of ways to have kids in Michigan seen by a dentist or dental professional. Consider enrolling in Michigan’s Health Kids Dental Program and contacting your Local Health Department for help finding a dental home. Michigan’s Healthy Kid Dental Program: Healthy Kids Dental Program (michigan.gov)
