Henry Schein UK has joined forces with Colgate-Palmolive to bring the Give Kids A Smile (GKAS) programme to life in the United Kingdom. The GKAS programme has helped improve children’s oral health in the United States for over 20 years. The official UK launch took place in October 2025 and will see the programme support local dental teams in treating underserved children who have not been able to access dental care.
UK dentists and dental team members who volunteered at local GKAS events provided oral health education, screenings, and preventive and restorative services, such as cleanings and fillings to more than 5,000 children in over 50 dental practices across the country. Treatments were carried out using essential oral health care products donated by Henry Schein UK, Colgate-Palmolive Company, as well as by other supporters and Henry Schein supplier partners.
“At Henry Schein we are driven by a deep commitment to expanding access to health care for those who need it most, especially children. It was truly moving to see the joy and smiles of the kids who took part in the GKAS programme this year,” said Vikki Goodall, Managing Director, Henry Schein’s distribution businesses for the UK and Ireland. “I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to our supplier partners for their unwavering support and product contributions, as well as to all the practices and dental professionals who dedicated their time and expertise to help the children.”
Colgate was the main supporter of Henry Schein’s signature programme, offering organisational support in collaboration with local schools, charities, and authorities. They also provided a take-home brushing pack with a toothbrush and full-sized toothpaste for each attendee.
The following companies also supported the GKAS campaign this year, supplying products, including Coltene, DMG, Hager Werken, Ivoclar, Kerr, premier, Voco, and vVardis Switzerland.
The programme is designed at no cost for patients or local NHS teams. Practices interested in joining the initiative to provide free dental check-ups and essential care during the half-term holiday can sign up in advance and will receive a comprehensive toolkit with information materials. More information about the programme and the registration form to become a GKAS practice partner in 2026 can be found here.
