Is Your Child Starting Kindergarten? Here's What You Need to Know About Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment
Your child's kindergarten year is a huge milestone—your child is growing up fast! Between school supplies, paperwork, and getting your little one emotionally ready, there’s a lot to think about. One thing many parents don’t realize? California requires a dental check-up or dental health evaluation prior to kindergarten (or first grade if they didn’t attend kindergarten).
That’s where Dreamhouse Dental comes in. We make this process easy, fun, and stress-free—for both kids and parents. Whether it’s your child’s first-ever dental visit or just a routine check-up, we’re here to help your family every step of the way.
Let’s break it all down so you know exactly what to expect—and why this check-up and oral health screening is such a big deal for your child’s health and success.
That’s where Dreamhouse Dental comes in. We make this process easy, fun, and stress-free—for both kids and parents. Whether it’s your child’s first-ever dental visit or just a routine check-up, we’re here to help your family every step of the way.
Let’s break it all down so you know exactly what to expect—and why this check-up and oral health screening is such a big deal for your child’s health and success.
What Is the Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment (KOHA)?
California law says that any child starting public school for the first time (kindergarten or first grade) needs to have a dental health evaluation. It's called the Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment, or KOHA for short.
You’ll need to submit a completed form signed by a licensed dentist—to your child’s school by May 31 of their first school year. But don’t worry, we handle all the paperwork for you after your visit.It’s a simple dental and oral exam, and it helps make sure your child’s smile is in great shape as they begin their school journey.
You’ll need to submit a completed form signed by a licensed dentist—to your child’s school by May 31 of their first school year. But don’t worry, we handle all the paperwork for you after your visit.It’s a simple dental and oral exam, and it helps make sure your child’s smile is in great shape as they begin their school journey.
Why Is This Check-Up So Important?
You might be wondering: "Do baby teeth really matter that much?" The answer is a big YES.
Tooth pain can distract kids. It can make it hard for children to concentrate, affect their ability to eat and sleep, and even cause them to miss school. In fact, dental problems are one of the most common reasons for school absences.
Here’s why this early dental visit matters:
1. Catch small issues before they become big (and expensive) problems
2. Make sure your child’s mouth is developing the right way
3. Help them feel confident and comfortable going to the dentist
4. Build good habits for a lifetime of healthy smiles
Think of it as a dental “wellness check” to set your child up before entering kindergarten and for a great school year. Let's start them early and help them understand the importance of good oral health.
Tooth pain can distract kids. It can make it hard for children to concentrate, affect their ability to eat and sleep, and even cause them to miss school. In fact, dental problems are one of the most common reasons for school absences.
Here’s why this early dental visit matters:
1. Catch small issues before they become big (and expensive) problems
2. Make sure your child’s mouth is developing the right way
3. Help them feel confident and comfortable going to the dentist
4. Build good habits for a lifetime of healthy smiles
Think of it as a dental “wellness check” to set your child up before entering kindergarten and for a great school year. Let's start them early and help them understand the importance of good oral health.
What Happens During the Dental Checkup?
At Dreamhouse Dental, we know how to make dental visits feel like a breeze. Here’s what you and your child can expect:
1. A Warm, Friendly Welcome
Our team is amazing with kids—and parents too! We know how to make everyone feel relaxed and at home from the moment you walk in.
2. A Gentle Assessment or Exam
One of our awesome dentists will take a quick but thorough look at your child’s:
- Teeth
- Gums
- Bite and jaw development
We’ll check for any early signs of dental cavities or other issues and make sure everything looks healthy.
3. Cleaning (if needed)
If your child is due for a cleaning, we’ll do a gentle one during the same visit. No pressure or poking—just clean, happy teeth.
4. KOHA Form Completion
We’ll fill out and sign the official KOHA form that the school needs. You just bring it to the front office—easy peasy!
5. Parent Tips & Kid Education
We’ll also take a minute to show you and your child the best brushing and flossing techniques and talk about snacks and drinks that help protect those pearly whites.
1. A Warm, Friendly Welcome
Our team is amazing with kids—and parents too! We know how to make everyone feel relaxed and at home from the moment you walk in.
2. A Gentle Assessment or Exam
One of our awesome dentists will take a quick but thorough look at your child’s:
- Teeth
- Gums
- Bite and jaw development
We’ll check for any early signs of dental cavities or other issues and make sure everything looks healthy.
3. Cleaning (if needed)
If your child is due for a cleaning, we’ll do a gentle one during the same visit. No pressure or poking—just clean, happy teeth.
4. KOHA Form Completion
We’ll fill out and sign the official KOHA form that the school needs. You just bring it to the front office—easy peasy!
5. Parent Tips & Kid Education
We’ll also take a minute to show you and your child the best brushing and flossing techniques and talk about snacks and drinks that help protect those pearly whites.
What If My Child Has a Cavity?
If we find anything that needs attention, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.We’ll:
- Walk you through the next steps
- Create a simple, stress-free treatment plan
- Help with insurance or offer flexible payment options
Early dental care means fewer issues later. The sooner we can fix a problem, the easier (and less expensive) it usually is.
- Walk you through the next steps
- Create a simple, stress-free treatment plan
- Help with insurance or offer flexible payment options
Early dental care means fewer issues later. The sooner we can fix a problem, the easier (and less expensive) it usually is.
When Should I Schedule the KOHA?
We recommend scheduling your child’s exam as early in the school year as possible. The deadline to turn in the form is May 31, but spots fill up fast, especially in the spring.
At Dreamhouse Dental, we offer:
- After-school and weekend appointments
- Fast turnaround on KOHA paperwork
- A fun, kid-friendly experience they’ll actually enjoy
At Dreamhouse Dental, we offer:
- After-school and weekend appointments
- Fast turnaround on KOHA paperwork
- A fun, kid-friendly experience they’ll actually enjoy
Why Choose Dreamhouse Dental?
There are plenty of dentists out there—but here’s why parents love bringing their kids to Dreamhouse Dental and why most parents consider us as the dental home for their children:
We’re Great with Kids
Our team knows how to make dentistry fun, not scary. We’re patient, gentle, and experienced in working with children of all ages.
Kid-Approved Office
Bright colors, fun games, and a calming environment that helps kids feel safe and happy.
We Make It Easy for Parents
From paperwork to payment plans, we’re here to take the stress off your plate.
Insurance & Payment Flexibility
We accept most PPOs, Denti-Cal, and offer affordable cash rates if you’re uninsured.
Local & Family-Oriented
We’re part of this community and love supporting local families just like yours. Think of us as your neighborhood dental home.
We’re Great with Kids
Our team knows how to make dentistry fun, not scary. We’re patient, gentle, and experienced in working with children of all ages.
Kid-Approved Office
Bright colors, fun games, and a calming environment that helps kids feel safe and happy.
We Make It Easy for Parents
From paperwork to payment plans, we’re here to take the stress off your plate.
Insurance & Payment Flexibility
We accept most PPOs, Denti-Cal, and offer affordable cash rates if you’re uninsured.
Local & Family-Oriented
We’re part of this community and love supporting local families just like yours. Think of us as your neighborhood dental home.
FAQ for Busy Parents
What’s the deadline again?
The KOHA form is due to your child’s school by May 31 of their first school year.
What if we don’t have dental insurance?
No worries! We offer budget-friendly payment options and affordable rates for families without insurance.
Do you speak Spanish?
Yes! We have Spanish-speaking team members to help make your visit smooth and comfortable.
Let’s Keep That Smile Bright!
Starting school is a big deal—and a healthy smile makes it even better. At Dreamhouse Dental, we’re all about making dental care easy, friendly, and fun for kids and parents alike.
Book your child’s KOHA visit today, and let’s make their first school year one to smile about.
What’s the deadline again?
The KOHA form is due to your child’s school by May 31 of their first school year.
What if we don’t have dental insurance?
No worries! We offer budget-friendly payment options and affordable rates for families without insurance.
Do you speak Spanish?
Yes! We have Spanish-speaking team members to help make your visit smooth and comfortable.
Let’s Keep That Smile Bright!
Starting school is a big deal—and a healthy smile makes it even better. At Dreamhouse Dental, we’re all about making dental care easy, friendly, and fun for kids and parents alike.
Book your child’s KOHA visit today, and let’s make their first school year one to smile about.
Ready to Book? Let’s Make It Happen!
We’d love to help your child start school with a clean, healthy, confident smile. Whether it’s their first dental visit or you’re new to the area, we’re here to help.
Call us now at (323) 300-2660 or reserve your slot to book your child’s Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment and complete the KOHA in no time.
Call us now at (323) 300-2660 or reserve your slot to book your child’s Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment and complete the KOHA in no time.
Dream Big Smile Bright
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood! Stop by and say hi! 👋
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood! Stop by and say hi! 👋
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood! Stop by and say hi! 👋
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood! Stop by and say hi! 👋