California law (EC 49452.8) requires children entering kindergarten or first grade, whichever is the child’s first year in public school, have an oral health exam and present a certificate signed by a licensed dentist or other licensed or registered dental health professional by May 31 of that school year. Oral health assessments that occurred within 12 months prior to school entry meet this requirement. If the child does not receive this exam, the parent must file a waiver stating the reason the certificate was not obtained.
Medi‑Cal Dental Program
The Medi‑Cal Dental Program provides free or low‑cost dental services to children and adults who receive Medi‑Cal, California’s Medicaid program. To find a Medi-Cal dentist, click here.
The best way to keep your child’s gums and teeth healthy is to take him or her to regular dental visits every 6 months. These 2x per year visits are covered in your child’s Medi‑Cal dental plan.
The Medi-Cal Dental Program provides the following free or low-cost services for kids:
- Dental exams (every 6 months)
- X-rays
- Teeth cleaning (every 6 months)
- Fluoride varnish (every 6 months)
- Molar sealants
- Fillings
- Root canals
- Tooth removal
- Emergency services
- Outpatient services
- Sedation (if medically necessary)
Protect Your Child Against Cavities With Molar Sealants
Children start to lose their baby teeth as early as five years old. This is when their permanent teeth begin to grow in. You can protect your child’s back teeth (their molars) from cavities with sealants. Molar sealants are clear, protective coatings and are quick and painless. This is not the same as fluoride varnish, which is a pale-yellow gel. Sealants are a part of your child’s Medi‑Cal dental benefit and can protect your child’s back teeth for several years!
For more information, visit Smile California.
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