Little Rock, Arkansas – Families in central Arkansas will soon have a chance to receive free dental screenings and education as part of a community outreach effort hosted by the Lyon College School of Dental Medicine. The school announced plans for its Give Kids a Smile Day, a public event set for Friday, July 18, from 9 a.m. to noon at its Riverdale campus, located at 5 Allied Drive, Building 5.
The event is open to both children and adults and will provide free oral health screenings, fluoride varnish applications, and oral hygiene education. In addition to health services, there will be interactive activities aimed at engaging children and helping them feel comfortable during what may be their first exposure to a dental visit.
“We’re excited to bring Give Kids a Smile Day to central Arkansas and provide families with valuable resources in a fun, welcoming environment,” said Dr. Meagan Inclan, a faculty member at Lyon College School of Dental Medicine and the event organizer. “For many children, this may be their first dental visit, so we want to create a positive, educational experience that helps set the tone for lifelong oral health.”
Give Kids a Smile Day was originally launched in 2003 by the American Dental Association Foundation, with the goal of raising national awareness about oral health, especially for children who may not otherwise have access to regular dental care. Over the years, the initiative has grown into a nationally recognized movement offering millions of children free dental services and educational resources.
At the Little Rock event, students and faculty from the dental school will volunteer their time and skills alongside nursing program students to serve community members in a welcoming, supportive environment. Organizers are hoping that the collaboration among medical and dental professionals will help reinforce the connection between oral health and overall health.
The event also aims to break down some of the barriers that prevent families from seeking dental care, such as cost and fear of the dentist. By creating a setting that is both educational and fun, Lyon College hopes to not only treat but also teach.
This event arrives at a time when access to oral health care remains a significant issue for many families in Arkansas and across the country. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, untreated cavities remain one of the most common chronic diseases among children in the United States. Lyon College faculty members believe that community events like this one can play a meaningful role in prevention.
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Parents and caregivers are encouraged to bring their children early, as screenings and services will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. No registration or insurance is required, and all services are free of charge.
Lyon College School of Dental Medicine, which continues to expand its community involvement, views this event as part of its broader mission to serve Arkansas through both education and outreach.
For families interested in participating or learning more, event details and directions are available through the college’s main website or by contacting the school directly.
With smiles as the focus, July 18 promises to be more than just a checkup—it’s an opportunity for children to begin a lifelong journey toward healthier habits and happier visits to the dentist.
