Care without barriers.
Programs with impact.
CDHA delivers dental care and oral health education to children across San Diego County. Our programs are designed to remove every barrier between a child and the care they need, whether that means bringing dentists to their school, treating them at our clinic, or making sure an urgent need does not go untreated.
Programs & Outreach
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Children's Dental Health Center
At our Golden Hill clinic, every child is welcomed with patience and care. We serve children from infancy through age 21, offering a full range of services including routine exams, cleanings, fillings, sealants, orthodontics, and emergency care. Our bilingual staff is here to make every family feel at home.
This clinic was built for the families who need it most. Because quality dental care should never be out of reach.
Orthodontic Program
A straight smile changes everything.
Orthodontic treatment does more than straighten teeth. It changes how a child feels walking into a room, sitting in a classroom, and facing the world.
Under the direction of Dr. Joseph Mullins, D.D.S., M.S., our orthodontic program provides comprehensive, high-quality care to children who might not otherwise have access to it.
What this program provides:
- Comprehensive orthodontic treatment for eligible children
- Care led by a board-certified orthodontic specialist
- Long-term treatment plans designed for lasting results and confidence
- Access to care for families who may not otherwise be able to afford it
The results speak for themselves. But often, the biggest change is something you can’t measure, a child who smiles more, participates more, and feels confident being themselves.
School-Based Program
Thousands of San Diego children come to school every day with untreated dental pain. It affects how they learn, focus, and feel about themselves.
Our school-based program brings a licensed dental team directly to your campus. Students receive on-site visual screenings, sealants, and oral health education.
What to expect:
- A visual dental screening (not a full comprehensive exam)
- Preventive sealants to help protect against cavities
- Oral health education to build healthy habits
If a student has signs of urgent dental needs, parents are notified promptly with clear next steps. Families can schedule follow-up care at the Children’s Dental Health Center or with a dentist of their choice.
We work alongside your school nurses and staff every step of the way to ensure students are supported and connected to care.
Meet the need program
We close the gap between a child in pain and the care they need.
A toothache doesn’t wait. Neither do we.
When a child is in pain and has no clear path to care, our Meet the Need program steps in right away. We work closely with school nurses and staff to identify students with urgent dental needs.
Our team connects directly with parents, helping them navigate next steps and schedule care as quickly as possible. Whether at the Children’s Dental Health Center or with a provider of their choice, we make sure every child has a clear, supported path to treatment.
What this program provides:
- Identification of students with urgent dental needs
- Direct coordination with school nurses and staff
- Parent communication and support to remove barriers to care
- Help scheduling timely treatment at our clinic or another trusted provider
No child should have to sit in pain because they don’t know where to go. We make sure they don’t have to.
A thank you note from Andre
FAQ
How do I schedule an appointment for my child?
Scheduling is simple. Call us at (619) 234-8131 during clinic hours, Monday through Thursday 8:30 to 4:30 and Friday 8:30 to 3:30.
Do you accept Medi-Cal?
Yes. We accept Medi-Cal and welcome families regardless of insurance status. If you are unsure whether your child qualifies, our team can help you find out.
What if my child does not have insurance?
We believe every child deserves care. Contact us and we will work with you to find a path forward. Our team is experienced in helping families navigate their options.
At what age should my child first see a dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child’s first dental visit by their first birthday, or when their first tooth appears. Starting early builds healthy habits and helps us catch small issues before they become bigger ones.
Where are you located and how do I get there?
Our clinic is located at 1270 24th Street in Golden Hill, San Diego, CA 92102. We are centrally located and accessible from across the city. Street parking is available nearby.
A frequently asked question surrounding your service
A frequently asked question surrounding your service
A frequently asked question surrounding your service
A frequently asked question surrounding your service
For Parents
Getting Started
- How do I schedule an appointment for my child?
- Do I need a referral to be seen at your clinic?
- What should I bring to my child’s first appointment?
- How old does my child need to be for their first visit?
- Do you see children with special needs?
- What languages does your staff speak?
- Where are you located and how do I get there?
- Is there parking available at the clinic?
Insurance and Cost
- Do you accept Medi-Cal?
- What if my child does not have insurance?
- What insurance plans do you accept?
- Is there a cost for services?
- What if I cannot afford to pay?
Dental Care
- What services do you offer?
- Do you offer emergency dental care?
- My child is afraid of the dentist. How do you handle that?
- How often should my child come in for a checkup?
- At what age should my child first see a dentist?
- Do you offer orthodontic treatment?
- How do I know if my child needs braces?
- What is a dental sealant and does my child need one?
- Do you offer fluoride treatments?
For Schools and Nurses
The Program
- What is CDHA’s school-based program?
- Which schools do you currently serve?
- How do I request a visit for my school?
- Is there a cost to our school or district?
- How far in advance do we need to schedule?
- How many students can you see in a single visit?
- What exactly happens during a school visit?
- Do you provide oral health education to students?
- Do you need a dedicated space at the school?
Referrals and Follow-Up
- What happens when a student needs follow-up treatment?
- How does the referral process work?
- Who handles communication with the family after a referral?
- What is the Meet the Need program and how does a nurse access it?
- How quickly can a child in pain be seen at your clinic?
- Do you follow up to make sure referred students actually receive care?
Logistics
- What consent or permission is required from parents?
- What records or documentation do you provide to the school after a visit?
- Are your staff licensed and credentialed?
- What grades and age groups do you serve?
For Donors and Grantmakers
Impact and Accountability
- How many children does CDHA serve each year?
- How is my donation used?
- What percentage of donations go directly to patient care?
- Is CDHA a registered nonprofit?
- What is your EIN number?
- Do you publish annual reports or financial statements?
- Are you accredited or affiliated with any dental or public health organizations?
Giving
- How do I make a donation?
- Can I designate my gift to a specific program?
- Do you accept corporate sponsorships?
- Do you accept in-kind donations?
- Is my donation tax deductible?
- How do I set up a recurring gift?
- Do you have a planned giving or legacy giving program?
- How do I apply for a grant partnership with CDHA?
The Need
- Why is children’s dental health such a significant issue in San Diego?
- What percentage of children in San Diego have untreated dental disease?
- How does untreated dental disease affect a child’s education and development?
- What gaps in care does CDHA address that other organizations do not?