Free dental care event offers critical support to Inland Empire families

Hundreds of Inland Empire children will receive free dental care later this month, as Concorde Career College’s San Bernardino campus hosts a one-day event aimed at expanding access to preventive oral health services.

On Oct. 13, the college will host its Making San Bernardino Smile Dental Hygiene Day, which will provide children ages 4 to 17 with free cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants and oral health kits.

The services will be provided by Concorde dental hygiene students under the supervision of licensed professionals, officials said.

Kevin Prehn, president of Concorde Career Colleges, says the upcoming free dental care event is about more than just cleanings. “It’s about helping kids stay healthy and giving our students real-world training that makes a difference in their community,” Prehn said.

Organizers say many families across San Bernardino and the wider Inland Empire have limited access to affordable dental care. California public health data shows more than half of kindergartners and 70% of third graders have already experienced tooth decay, the most common chronic disease in childhood.

The event is part of Concorde Career Colleges’ broader effort during National Dental Hygiene Month which highlights the value of preventive care, while building workforce pipelines in communities with limited access to providers.

Similar events are taking place at other Concorde campuses across the country, including in San Diego, Kansas City and Tampa, Florida.

The event will take place at 201 E. Airport Dr. in San Bernardino. It is supported and sponsored by PDS Health, Heartland Dental and Liberty Dental Plan.

While Monday’s event is a one-day initiative, Concorde’s San Bernardino campus also operates a year-round Dental Hygiene Clinic that offers low-cost services to children, adults and seniors in the region.

Organizers say the event is expected to fill quickly and encourage early registration to secure a spot. Appointments are required and can be made online.