Keeping your child’s smile healthy is an important part of their overall health and well-being. At Moore Family Dental, we’re happy to help families throughout Western New York with school dental health certificate requirements.
For your convenience, you can download a copy of the New York State Dental Health Certificate Form.
What Parents Should Know About School Dental Health Certificates
If you have a child entering Kindergarten, 2nd, 4th, 7th, or 10th grade in New York State, you may be asked to provide a dental health certificate as part of the school health requirements.
New York State established this program to encourage regular dental care for children and help identify dental problems before they interfere with a child’s health, comfort, or ability to learn. Schools are also required to provide families with information about dentists who offer free or reduced-cost dental examinations.
Why Regular Dental Visits Matter
One of the goals of New York’s school dental health program is to help every child establish a dental home where they can receive regular preventive care.
Regular dental visits can help detect cavities, gum problems, and other oral health concerns early. Preventive care can also help children develop healthy habits that will benefit them for years to come.
According to information from the New York State Education Department, only about 50% of school-aged children visit a dentist once a year. Dental problems can have a significant impact on children, including missed school and difficulty concentrating when they are experiencing pain or discomfort.
Consider these additional statistics:
- More than 51 million school hours are lost each year because of dental-related illness.
- Tooth decay is one of the most common childhood diseases and is five times more common than asthma.
Need a Dental Health Certificate for Your Child?
If your child needs a dental examination or school dental health certificate, Moore Family Dental is here to help. We’re proud to provide friendly, family-focused dental care for children throughout Western New York.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, please complete the brief form below.