Visiting the Dentist – When Should Your Child Start?

First Visit by the First Birthday

Experts recommend that every child should start having his/her teeth checked by a dentist or doctor by the first birthday. Your baby should be seen earlier if you notice any white or brown spots or anything unusual. Children can have a positive dental experience and parents can learn how to keep their baby’s teeth healthy.

Finding a Dentist for Your Child

Free and low-cost dental insurance

Dental care is included in the state-sponsored insurance program for children (Apple Health for Kids). Washington’s Apple Health for Kids is free or low-cost health insurance that provides medical, dental, vision, mental health and prescription benefits to children under age 19.

• Learn more about Apple Health for Kids
• Call the Family Health Hotline (800-322-2588) & learn if your children qualify
• Apply online for Apple Health for Kids

The Access to Baby and Child Dentistry (ABCD) Program

If your child is eligible for state-sponsored health coverage – Apple Health for Kids and is between birth and the 6th birthday, they can also be enrolled in Washington’s ABCD program.

The ABCD Program:

• Links eligible children with a dentist
• Refers to ABCD-certified dentists who have special training in working with young children
• Provides children with a positive dental experience
• Gives you important information about what you can do at home to care for your child’s teeth

Visit the ABCD website to learn more about the program.

The ABCD Program serves many counties across the state. To check if ABCD is in your community:

• Call the Family Health Hotline (1-800-322-2588)
• Use the Resource Finder – select “Dental” from the search word list

Other Dental Resources

Dental care for children is available in communities across Washington. Here are a few resources to get you started in finding your family and child dental care:

• Dental Resources in your Community
• Contact your county health department