CAMP HILL, Pa. (Aug. 21, 2024) – Approximately 25 youth in Arlington, Texas, are starting the school year with healthier smiles, thanks to a free dental care event recently hosted by United Concordia Dental and Mission Arlington/Mission Metroplex.
Dental problems can significantly impact a student’s education, leading to lower grades and increased absences: a Journal of Pediatrics study found that children with oral health issues are nearly 80% more likely to struggle academically and have a 90% increased likelihood of missing more than six days of school compared to their peers.
“Regular checkups and proper hygiene habits can prevent most oral health conditions, including cavities, ensuring kids stay healthy, pain-free and ready to learn,” said Anthony Warren, DDS, dental director, United Concordia Dental. “Through this event, we can make it easier for them to get the dental care they need to thrive physically and academically.”
The Youth Dental Day event was held at Mission Arlington’s Allan Saxe Dental Clinic. Local dentists and dental students from the Texas A&M University School of Dentistry volunteered their time to deliver exams, cleanings, X-rays, fillings and other services to the kids – at no cost.
Participants also had the opportunity to meet and take photos with former Texas Rangers players Dave Valle and José Guzmán, and Rangers Captain, the team’s mascot. Each patient was given a goodie bag with dental care items to help them maintain good oral health at home.
Additionally, Mission Arlington has been awarded a $30,000 grant from the United Concordia Dental Charitable Fund to assist the nonprofit in providing no-cost dental services to a greater number of individuals – beyond those reached during this event – who are struggling financially or unable to afford care throughout the year.
United Concordia has partnered with Mission Arlington on this annual event for the past 23 years, bringing free dental services to underserved youth in the community.
For more information about United Concordia, visit UnitedConcordia.com. Sign up to get the latest company news.
Contact:
Kristy Cramlet
United Concordia Dental
717-260-7762
kristy.cramlet@ucci.com
Leilyn Perri
Highmark Health
717-302-4243
leilyn.perri@highmarkhealth.org
