KANSAS CITY, Mo., Jan. 28, 2026 — Concorde Career Colleges is marking National Children’s Dental Health Month in February by hosting no-cost “Making Smiles” events at multiple campuses nationwide to promote preventive dental care for children and teens.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that children lose about 34 million school hours annually due to emergency dental visits. Tooth decay, the most common chronic childhood disease, is largely preventable, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Regular brushing and flossing, a healthy diet, and routine dental visits can significantly reduce the risk.
“Oral care impacts overall health and wellbeing, and kids do better in school when they’re healthy,” said Kevin Prehn, President of Concorde Career Colleges. “Our Making Smiles events help bridge gaps in access to dental care while providing students with hands-on clinical experience.”
The events offer preventive services for children ages 4 to 17, including X-rays, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental kits with essential oral care items. Care is provided by Concorde dental hygiene students under supervision from licensed dental professionals and faculty.
Generous support from sponsors Aspen Dental and PDS Health makes the events possible. Limited same-day appointments may be available, and families are encouraged to call local clinic lines to confirm availability before visiting.
Concorde’s commitment to community dental care extends beyond February. At its 15 campuses with dental hygiene programs, the colleges operate year-round Dental Hygiene Clinics that offer low-cost preventive care to the public, helping address unmet dental needs, particularly for uninsured or underinsured residents.