Inspiring Smiles Through Education: The Story of the Kadar Institute

At Kadar Orthodontics, our mission has always gone beyond braces and aligners. We believe orthodontics is about creating healthy smiles that last a lifetime. And, education is where it all begins. That’s why more than a decade ago, Dr. Tom Kadar launched the Kadar Institute, a community-based program designed to bring dental health education directly to children in schools across South Jersey.

A Mission to Teach Kids About Healthy Teeth

When the Kadar Institute first began, Dr. Tom and his team traveled into classrooms to help children learn the basics of good oral hygiene:

•          Why brushing and flossing are essential.

•          How baby teeth and permanent teeth grow and change.

•          The connection between healthy teeth and overall health.

•          How braces and aligners help smiles grow straight and strong.

With fun presentations, interactive demonstrations, and take-home resources, the program became a favorite for teachers, students, and parents alike. Children weren’t just learning the right way to brush their teeth -- they were building confidence in caring for their own smiles.

Pressing Pause During COVID-19

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, the Kadar Institute had to pause its in-person school visits. Safety was the top priority, and classrooms shifted their focus to remote learning. Like many community programs, the Kadar Institute went on hold but the commitment to education never stopped.

During that time, Team Kadar stayed connected with families through social media, gokadar.com, and launched virtual orthodontic consultations, continuing to share tips on brushing, aligner care, and healthy habits even from a distance.

Re-Launching: A Re-Designed, Interactive Program

Now, the Kadar Institute is back—redesigned for today’s classrooms and even more exciting for students. The new program is:

•          More interactive: Hands-on activities that show children what it’s like to care for their teeth the right way.

•          More educational: Updated lessons that explain not only how to brush and floss, but also how undergoing orthodontic treatment can keep your smile healthy.

•          More fun: An all-new section about animal teeth and fossils, where kids learn about how different animals use their teeth, and even explore amazing dinosaur fossils.

By connecting dental health to science, nature, and history, the Kadar Institute makes learning about teeth both memorable and fun.

Dinosaurs, Fossils & Smiles: A Unique Connection

One of the most popular new elements of the program is a kid-favorite (and Dr. Kadar-favorite) topic: dinosaur teeth. Just like humans, dinosaurs had a wide variety of teeth designed for different diets like sharp teeth for meat-eaters and flat, grinding teeth for plant-eaters.

Through Kadar’s partnership with the Edelman Fossil Park and Museum of Rowan University, the Kadar Institute introduces students to the fascinating world of fossils. By looking at prehistoric animal teeth, kids learn how important teeth are -- not just for eating, but for survival. Dr. Kadar likes to show how our smiles and good oral care play an important role in keeping teeth strong for life.

Commitment to Education & Community

The relaunch of the Kadar Institute reflects our deep commitment to education and community outreach. Whether through classroom visits, fossil partnerships, or supporting families with braces and aligners, Kadar Orthodontics believes in teaching the every generation how to care for their health.

Supporting the Edelman Fossil Park and Museum is just one way we show that commitment. Education is powerful, and when combined with a sense of wonder -- whether about dinosaur teeth or brushing your own -- kids are inspired to learn and grow.

Why This Matters for Families

Parents choose Kadar Orthodontics not just because of the board-certified orthodontists who provide expert treatment, but because Kadar is invested in their community. The Kadar Institute proves that our focus goes beyond the office. We’re here to inspire healthy habits and curiosity in every child (and adult) we meet.

The Future of the Kadar Institute

With the re-launch of the Kadar Institute, we’re excited to bring smiles and learning back into schools. From brushing basics to dinosaur fossils, every visit is designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and encourage healthier smiles.

To learn more about the Kadar Institute, braces, aligners, and orthodontic care for your family, visit gokadar.com and follow Team Kadar on social media for updates, photos, and new educational adventures.