UMKC School of Dentistry

10/16/2026

The School of Dentistry welcomed the KS and MO sections of the American College of Prosthodontists (ACP) for its fourth Day of Learning!

Exploring the theme of “Interdisciplinary Collaboration between Different Specialties and Prosthodontics” were three excellent presentations:

• “Managing Mucogingival Deformities and Conditions around Teeth and Implants” by Dr. Patrick Lai, Director of the Advanced Education Program in Periodontics
• “Beyond the Single Tooth: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Comprehensive Restorative Treatment” by Dr. Joe Kalil, Virginia-based prosthodontist and member of the American College of Prosthodontists
• “Zygomatic Implant Overview” by Dr. Solon Kao, Chair of Oral Surgery and Hospital Dentistry

It was a great day of connecting with one another and collaborating toward the shared goal of providing quality patient care.

See more photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/FM8e7rWG6JRaSYZB9

10/14/2026

10/08/2026

For our third Advanced Endodontics seminar, the School of Dentistry welcomed Dr. José Aranguren of the Universidad Rey Juan Carlos in Madrid, endodontist and creator of the Zarc Rotary File system. He was joined by Brent Lundsten of Avalon Biomed and Kim Livesay of Zarc, whose companies are bringing the file system to the United States.

Endodontics faculty and residents from UMKC, along with residents from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry, gathered to hear a lecture from Dr. Aranguren and enjoy a hands-on workshop with the file system.

Thank you for visiting UMKC and sharing your expertise with us!

See more photos here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/v4oV3aKxwt8XYpBt6

10/05/2026

Taking the field with TeamSmile! 🏈🦷

Volunteers from the School of Dentistry came out to Arrowhead Stadium on September 29 and helped provide free dental care to underserved children in a fun, game-day atmosphere.

Thank you to everyone who made the day possible!

See more photos here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/MB4WpULgofSw1GFJ8

09/30/2026

Looking back on Dental Fraternity Decision Day 🦷🎉

Delta Sigma Delta, Psi Omega, and Xi Psi Phi welcomed their newest members this month.

Here's to new friendships, meaningful connections, and plenty of great memories!

See more photos from decision day here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/7jZCz5TFfQeRizwH6

09/24/2026

Celebrating global collaboration at UMKC!

For 40 years, the University of Missouri South African Education Program (UMSAEP) has connected the UM System and the University of the Western Cape through teaching and research opportunities.

To mark this anniversary, the School of Dentistry welcomed Dr. Jeff Yengopal, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of the Western Cape, and Prof. Rod Uphoff, UMSAEP Director at the University of Missouri.

Dr. Yengopal and Prof. Uphoff toured the School of Dentistry’s clinic and research spaces and shared insightful conversations with faculty on dental education, patient care, and more.

We were honored to take part in this meaningful celebration and look forward to the continued growth of UMSAEP!

09/18/2026

The School of Dentistry enjoyed some fun in the sun (and sand) for the annual Smiles and Sets Sand Volleyball Tournament!

Congratulations to this year's champions:
🏆Competitive Division - Team Aiden, captained by D4 Maddie Janes and taking home the win for the second year in a row!
🏆Recreational Division - Canine Crushers, captained by Assistant Dean for Student Programs Richard Bigham!

We look forward to hitting the courts again next year!

See more photos here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/AKJaJ8X7tKhhZobn6

09/16/2026

Congratulations to the School of Dentistry faculty recognized at the UMKC Faculty Promotion and Tenure Celebration, held September 10 at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium!

Joining to celebrate the faculty were Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Dr. Melanie Simmer-Beck (left) and Dean of the School of Dentistry Dr. Paul Luepke (right).

Honorees, left to right:
Dr. Gustavo Leal, Clinical Associate Professor
Prof. Bethany Palesh, Clinical Associate Professor
Dr. Tanya Gibson, Professor
Dr. Alison Louie, Clinical Professor
Dr. Meghan Wendland, Associate Professor with Tenure
Dr. Melynda Meredith, Clinical Professor (not pictured)

Thank you for your continued service to the School of Dentistry!

09/10/2026

School of Dentistry students enjoyed the 2026 Lunch on the Lawn & Connections Fair, hosted by the Office of Student Involvement.

It was a great opportunity for students to connect with each other and the various organizations on campus!

See more photos here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/Xuje6MjpcGixiNyU7