Before a child learns to read or count, there is one important thing that helps them succeed in school and that’s having a healthy mouth. The kindergarten oral health assessment, or KOHA, is a required step in California that gives children the best start possible. It checks for dental issues early, helps parents find a dental home for their child, and supports kids being ready for school.

If your child is getting ready for their first year of school, or if this is your first time hearing about KOHA, this article will explain everything you need to know. We will cover what it is, why it matters, and how Dreamhouse Dental can help make the process easy and stress free.

What is the Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment?

The kindergarten oral health assessment is a screening that must be completed before a child begins kindergarten or first grade in a California public school. This requirement was created by Assembly Bill 1433 and became law in 2005. According to the California Education Code section 49452.8, this screening must be performed by a licensed dental professional.

The goal is simple. Catch dental problems early so kids can focus on learning, not on toothaches or infections. Dental disease is one of the most common reasons for school absences, and untreated dental issues can make it hard for children to concentrate and learn.

What Does KOHA Look Like for Your Child?

A KOHA is quick and easy. Your child will receive a dental screening by a dentist, dental hygienist, or another licensed dental professional. The dentist will look for signs of untreated dental disease and make sure your child is healthy enough for a successful school year.

After the assessment, a KOHA form is completed and turned in to your child’s school. This helps the school meet state reporting requirements and ensures your child is ready for class.

Why Is KOHA So Important for School Readiness?

A child cannot do their best in school if they are in pain. Dental problems can affect sleep, nutrition, focus, and behavior. The kindergarten oral health assessment helps schools identify children suffering from untreated dental issues and helps parents establish a dental home for their children.

This is one of the most effective ways to improve school readiness. By starting the year with a clean bill of dental health, kids are better prepared to learn and thrive.

What if My Child Has Never Seen a Dentist?

If your child does not yet have a regular source of dental care, you are not alone. Many families are unsure where to start. That is where Dreamhouse Dental can help. We provide gentle, kid friendly dental assessments and screenings and can become your family’s dental home. We want to make sure your children have a dental assessment to ensure they aren't suffering from untreated dental disease. 

California law requires the KOHA to be completed by May 31 of the child’s first year in public school. Whether your child is entering kindergarten or first grade, we can schedule an appointment that fits your needs and help you complete all required forms.

Who Performs the Assessment?

The screening must be done by a licensed dental professional. That includes a dentist, registered dental hygienist, or a registered dental assistant under supervision. The assessment is quick, non-invasive, and gives you helpful information about your child’s dental health.

At Dreamhouse Dental, our dental team makes every child feel safe and welcome. Whether this is your child’s first visit or they already have a regular dental office, we will make sure the KOHA process is smooth and supportive. The KOHA helps prevent dental disease and helps parents establish a healthy dental routine for their children. 

What Is the KOHA Form?

The KOHA form is the official paperwork that proves your child has received a dental screening. It is usually provided by the school or can be downloaded online through the California oral health reporting system. After your child’s dental assessment, our team will complete the form and send it home with you or submit it directly to the school if requested.

This form is required as part of the health evaluation for school entry. It is just as important as vision and hearing checks and plays a big role in your child’s overall readiness.

What Happens If a Child Does Not Get the KOHA?

Schools may follow up with you if your child’s kindergarten oral health assessment is not submitted by the deadline. Some schools may allow for passive consent and offer on-site screenings in partnership with local health departments or dental programs.

However, it is always better for your child to be screened by a dentist who can also provide follow-up care and guidance. Dreamhouse Dental encourages parents to be proactive and schedule the screening prior to kindergarten so there are no surprises.

How KOHA Connects to the Bigger Health Picture

The kindergarten oral health assessment is part of a larger system for California oral health. It was created by the Department of Public Health to support student wellness, especially through the oral health technical assistance center and local health jurisdictions.

The California oral health technical assistance program offers guidance to schools and dental providers. It also ensures children receive access to care, even in underserved areas. Dreamhouse Dental proudly supports this mission by providing quality care to families in our community.

What is AB 1433 and Senate Bill 379?

Assembly Bill 1433, also known as AB 1433, passed in 2006 and added the KOHA requirement to the education code. Senate Bill 2630 expanded the program and strengthened the connection between schools and dental providers.

These laws help schools improve school readiness, reduce absenteeism, and support student success. Dental disease and other health issues can make it hard for children to succeed in school. By making KOHA part of the first year in public school, California took a big step toward solving this problem.

Why Dreamhouse Dental?

We are more than just a dental office. We want to be part of your child’s success story. Our team has the experience you need in helping your family complete the KOHA process. We make every visit positive and stress free.

We believe every child deserves a healthy start and a bright smile. From the moment you walk through our doors, you will see that we care deeply about your child’s well-being, both in and out of the classroom.

Things to Remember about KOHA

Remember, your child’s dental health is a key element of their school success. We want to help you, and your child get on the right track to a healthy smile. Here’s some more tips to keep in mind about KOHA and what it means for you, and your child.

• KOHA stands for Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment and is required by California law.
• It applies to children entering kindergarten or first grade in public school.
• The dental screening must be performed by a licensed dental professional.
• A KOHA form must be submitted to the child’s school by May 31 of their first school year.
• The program helps schools identify dental issues and helps parents establish a dental home.
• KOHA improves school readiness and reduces missed school days due to dental pain.
• Dreamhouse Dental can help your family complete the assessment and provide ongoing care.

Is Your Child Ready for School? Let Us Help.

At Dreamhouse Dental, we are proud to support families like yours through every stage of life. This includes helping as they begin transitioning into school. If your child is ready for their kindergarten oral health assessment, we are ready to help you every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule your child’s KOHA appointment and give them the confident, healthy start that they deserve.

‍