CHICAGO, October 24, 2025 — William T. Kane, D.D.S., M.B.A., a general dentist in Dexter, M.O., is the recipient of the 2025 American Dental Association (ADA) Humanitarian Award for his impactful leadership and volunteer service through Smiles of Hope Dental Clinic, which provides vital, accessible oral health care to the underserved in his rural community and beyond. Dr. Kane will be honored at ADA SmileCon™ in Washington, D.C., on October 24 during the Changemakers Celebration.
The Humanitarian Award honors an ADA member each year who has distinguished themselves by outstanding, unselfish leadership predominantly in the field of dentistry, through the expenditure of extraordinary time and professional skills to improve the oral health of underserved populations.
Dr. Kane is the founding dentist of Smiles of Hope, a volunteer-run, low-cost tooth extraction clinic that provides services in two locations – the original clinic that operates out of Lighthouse Church in Dexter, M.O., and a second location in Fenton, M.O., that opened in 2024. Since the inception of Smiles of Hope in 2010, Dr. Kane and his fellow volunteer dental professionals have treated over 11,000 patients and provided over nine million dollars in dental care to underserved populations. Many of the clinic’s patients are veterans, and some patients travel over 1,000 miles due to their inability to find affordable treatment locally. The clinic also serves the recovery house and inmate populations.
Beyond his time, Dr. Kane has generously donated equipment, supplies and funds to Smiles of Hope. He also fostered a collaboration to bring dental students and faculty from A.T. Still University’s Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health to Smiles of Hope for special clinics to help reduce the backlog of patients. Through his leadership and mentorship, at least 29 Smiles of Hope volunteers who began as pre-dental students are now practicing dentistry or currently attending dental school.
“The ADA Humanitarian Award recognizes those who have selflessly made a lasting impact on the oral health care and overall well-being of their fellow human beings,” said Brett Kessler, D.D.S., president of the ADA. “Dr. Kane’s passion for dentistry and dedication to serving his community ensure Smiles of Hope continues to provide vital oral health services long into the future.”
A groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the Lighthouse Church location took place on June 21, 2025. The clinic will expand from 10 to 33 chairs, allowing room for more equipment and services.
“I am very humbled to receive this recognition,” said Dr. Kane. “Smiles of Hope was born out of a desire to address access to care issues in my community and give back to those in need, and it has become one of my greatest joys. I am very grateful for the staff at Lighthouse Church and the many volunteers I’ve worked with over the years, whose support has made it possible for Smiles of Hope to continue growing and providing more care.”
Dr. Kane’s nomination letters from peers and colleagues praised him as a leader with integrity and remarked on his compassion for and dedication to the underserved. He is regarded as an asset to his community, with a heart for service that is inspirational to all who volunteer with him. He demonstrates an enthusiasm for oral health care and a love for others that have greatly impacted Dexter and the surrounding cities of southeast Missouri.
Dr. Kane received his dental degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry and his Master of Business Administration from Southeast Missouri State University. He has maintained a general dental practice in Dexter since 1980.
First established in 2008, the ADA Humanitarian Award annually honors an ADA member for creating a legacy of volunteer work and is one of the ADA’s highest honors. For more information about the ADA Humanitarian Award, please visit ADA.org/humanitarian.
Editor’s Note: Reporters are invited to follow the ADA on Instagram @americandentalassociation and #ADASmileCon for updates from SmileCon.