Clark County Public Health promotes the Access to Baby & Child Dentistry (ABCD) program that connects children from birth up to age 6 who have Washington Apple Health (Medicaid) insurance to dentists for preventive dental care. The ABCD program has expanded to include eligible children ages 6-13 with a Developmental Disabilities Administration indicator (DDA) which means that the patient has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity. The ABCD program coordinator is available to assist parents with finding a child-friendly dentist and encourages the first dental visit by age 1.
English brochure Spanish brochure
Once you have called the dentist and scheduled an appointment for your child, you may request a medical interpreter if needed to communicate with the dentist.
Una vez que usted ha programado una cita dental para su niño(a) usted puede solicitar un Intérprete médico si lo necesita para comunicarse con el dentista.
Here are some reasons early visits to the dentist are important for children
- Make sure all baby teeth are healthy
- Make going to the dentist a regular part of your child's life
- Provide positive dental experience
- Prevent child experiencing pain from dental disease
- Provide education about how to take care of your child's dental health
ABCD clients receive each year
- Two dental exams
- Three fluoride applications
- Two education sessions for child's parent
- Restorative care, as needed
Oral health tips for parents
With proper oral health care, parents can ensure their children have a healthy smile and lower risk of dental disease as they get older.
The Mighty Mouth gives new mothers information on how they can protect their child's teeth from the start by maintaining their own oral health during pregnancy as well as the early years of their child.
Parents can prevent tooth decay by teaching their children how to brush their teeth. They should help their child with brushing until they are 6 to 8 years old. Remember to brush for two minutes, two times each day. The Mighty Mouth also offers additional dental health information to teach small children about taking care of their teeth.
Dental sealants are another tool for preventing tooth decay. Dental sealants are thin plastic-like materials painted on chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to "seal out" germs and food that cause decay and destroy teeth. Sealants are effective, safe, easy to apply, long-lasting and cost effective.
Healthy snacks
Healthy snacks for kids should be delicious, nutritious, and colorful. Snacks should not replace a meal but provide nutritious supplements that help to maintain their energy between meals. Be aware of choking hazards, food allergies or food intolerance when choosing snacks to give children. Avoid snack foods that could stick to the child’s teeth which may contribute to dental decay.
The Tooth Snack Guide (English/Spanish) offers suggestions for snacks that won’t cause cavities, snacks that usually won’t cause cavities and the foods to avoid that easily cause cavities.
Fluoride
Fluoride is a safe, natural mineral and is another effective way to prevent tooth decay. For children younger than 8, fluoride helps strengthen the permanent teeth that are developing under the gums. Parents should talk to their child's dentist for fluoride recommendations.
Medicaid and low-cost dental providers
View the Clark County Dental Resources brochure with Medicaid and low-cost dental care providers who offer low fees or reduced fees based on income, or accept Apple Health (WA Medicaid). Call the provider for up-to-date information and hours.
This list is periodically updated; changes may have occurred since the last update. This list does not imply approval nor does omission imply disapproval. This is not a list of ABCD dental providers.
Another resource for community clinics in Clark County who also provide dental services is the Clark County Dental Society website.
Recursos de salud oral
Aquí hay algunos recursos de salud oral en Español:
El programa ABCD
Refresque Sus Conocimientos sobre Dientes Sanos
DentistLink
Need a Washington state dentist now? Insured, uninsured or Apple Health (Medicaid), DentistLink is here to help. DentistLink is a non-profit service focused on connecting individuals with dental care they need. This service is provided at no charge.
They have knowledgeable friendly referral specialists to assist clients in finding the best choice and they can also assist in booking a dental appointment. If you need additional dental assistance, the referral specialist can assist you with resources.
Community in Motion
Community in Motion provides non-emergency medical transportation to medical services for individuals covered by Washington state Medicaid (Apple Health). Typical services may include primary care, dental, dialysis, behavioral health, urgent medical care or specialty medical care.
For more information and details view a flyer in English or Spanish.
Fluoridated water maps
SMILE survey
SMILE Survey 2015-16 - Clark County results from statewide survey to assess oral health of children.
For more information, email Anna Cruz, Program Coordinator.