KinderSmile Oral Health Program

KinderSmile Oral Health Program (KSOHP) provides preventive and diagnostic dental services and comprehensive oral health education to children and families at-risk. Prevention and Early Intervention services include on-site visits to schools and community centers serving children (0-18 years) in New Jersey.

Examination and preventive dental care including prophylaxis, topical fluoride application, and sealants when appropriate, are provided to children with written parental consent. Children diagnosed with moderate to severe dental caries are referred to our Dental Home for follow-up care, regardless of insurance status.

The oral health education component of KSOHP is developed by KinderSmile Foundation in conjunction with the existing curricula used by the participating programs to be age-appropriate, engaging, and long-lasting in developmental impact. Education provided to children, parents and caregivers addresses the importance of early intervention and prevention, the practice of oral hygiene in school and at home, periodic dental checkups, the benefits of using fluoride toothpaste, fluoride rinse, topical application of fluoride by dental professionals, and use of systemic fluoride when indicated. Emphasis is also placed on healthy eating and feeding habits to reduce the incidence of dental caries. All our service areas have no community water fluoridation. 

“Because of KinderSmile Foundation’s efforts, over 185 children at the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton now know how to properly brush their teeth. We appreciate your efforts to increase access to oral health care for underserved children.” – John D.


Frequently Asked Questions from Parents:

  • Why did I receive a flyer that looks like the one above?
    Your child’s school has agreed to partner with KinderSmile Oral Health Program (KSOHP). Our team of dental professionals and educational volunteers will be traveling to your child’s school in order to provide the services listed on your flyer.
  • What happens if I don’t sign any forms?
    You may choose to decline the free oral exam, free teeth cleaning, and/or the free fluoride treatment for cavity prevention which we offer school groups. It is 100% your choice, and we will respect that choice. NO CHILD is treated without signed dental consent from a legal guardian. Your child will instead participate in our group oral health education, where they will learn how to properly brush their teeth, what foods are good/bad for their teeth, how often & for how long they should brush, etc. This oral health education happens in a group setting and will include all students present, regardless of consent forms.
  • How will I know the results of my child’s oral exam?
    Immediately following your child’s exam, the KSOHP dentist or hygienist will fill out a letter detailing their observations and recommendations. You should receive the letter home via your child’s teacher or school nurse within one week, and in addition, a program coordinator from KinderSmile Foundation will personally call you to discuss the exam results. You may request additional information about your child’s oral health records at any time by calling KinderSmile Community Oral Health Center at 973-744-7003.