When we think about early childhood education, we often picture story time, colorful classrooms, and social development. But there’s one critical element that doesn’t always make the list—dental care. For families and educators involved in the Head Start program, promoting good oral health isn't just a nice-to-have—it’s a must.
Head Start is a federal program in the United States that promotes school readiness for children under five from low-income families. The program offers comprehensive support, including education, nutrition, health, and parent involvement services. A key component of this holistic support system is oral health care—and for good reason.
According to the Office of Head Start, all enrolled children must receive a dental exam within 90 days of starting the program. Additionally, children must have a “dental home,” or an ongoing relationship with a dentist who provides continuous and comprehensive oral care
Why Dental Care in Early Childhood Is So Important
Children's oral health is deeply linked to their overall health and development. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tooth decay (dental caries) is one of the most common chronic diseases among children in the U.S.—five times more common than asthma
Poor oral health in early childhood can lead to:
Research also shows that children with poor oral health are nearly three times more likely to miss school due to dental pain than their peers with good oral health
Head Start's Role in Promoting Oral Health
Head Start takes a proactive approach by integrating oral health into its daily routines. Staff are trained to:
Programs often collaborate with local dentists and community health centers to provide preventive care like fluoride treatments and dental screenings on-site.
Addressing Disparities in Dental Care
Access to dental care is not equal across all communities. Children from low-income families are twice as likely to have untreated cavities compared to children from higher-income families. The Head Start program helps bridge this gap by connecting families with services that may otherwise be out of reach due to financial or geographic barriers.
What Families Can Do
Parents and caregivers play a huge role in children’s oral health. Here’s how families can support good dental habits at home:
Dental care and early education might seem like two different worlds, but they go hand in hand. By including oral health in its mission, Head Start helps set children up for success—not just in school, but in life. Ensuring that every child has a healthy smile is more than a cosmetic concern; it's an investment in their future.