dentalhealthcertificates

20 Corporate Woods Blvd.
Suite 602
Albany, New York 12211
ph: 518-465-0044
fax: 518-465-3219
alt: 800-255-2100
nysdf@nysdental.org

New Legislation Passed in 2008 on Dental Health Certificates

Under the new law, effective September 1, 2008, families will be asked to voluntarily present a dental health certificate when a
child enters. Below you find the answers to the top four questions we are being asked.

Q: Why are the school districts sending us this form?

A: Under the new law, schools are required to send out the dental health certificates at the same time as they send out
the mandatory health certificates. Volunteer dental health certificates will be sent out at the intervals as the mandatory
health certificates – twice in elementary school, and twice in secondary school.

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Q: Are children required to have a dental health certificate filled out to attend school?

A: No. This is only a request from the school districts.

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Q: If it is not a requirement why should I have my child seen by a dentist?

A: Dental examination assesses tooth decay, untreated dental disease, oral health and other conditions, all of which can
affect a child ability to learn in school. Assessing a problem early can save hundreds of dollars later.

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Q: Can my child just have a dental screening by a hygienist?

A: No. The exam must be a comprehensive dental exam. This means, the child must be seen by the dentist, a full oral
history must be taken, and x-rays may or may not be required. The certificate must be signed by a duly licensed dentist
who is authorized to practice in the State of New York or surrounding states. *A list of approved states is forth coming.

*One requirement of the new law is that the state Health Department develops a list of free or reduced-price dental
services to which parents can be referred. This list can be obtained from your local school district. *This list is being
composed and not available yet.

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Please note that regulations are not currently available and some of this information is subjected to change. As we get
more information we will update the section.

Please check back periodically.

If you have any further questions, please call us at 1-800-255-2100 or email your questions to Carley Libertucci

20 Corporate Woods Blvd.
Suite 602
Albany, New York 12211
ph: 518-465-0044
fax: 518-465-3219
alt: 800-255-2100
nysdf@nysdental.org