Nonprofit orthodontic program expands to serve low-income youth nationwide

    Feb. 8, 2010
    Smiles Change Lives seeks kids from low-income families who need braces.

    KANSAS CITY, Missouri--If a family has experienced a decrease in income due to the economic downturn, the family may qualify for a low-cost nonprofit orthodontic program.

    Smiles Change Lives (SCL) seeks youth from low-income families who need braces.

    "She comes home crying about the teasing. I would just like her to have a nice smile, without her covering her mouth all the time," said Carol, a mother to 12-year-old Samantha

    In the United States there are 43 million youth who need, but whose families can't afford, braces. In the current economy, many families have had to postpone orthodontic treatment for their kids.

    SCL seeks applicants who meet the following criteria:

    * Are ages 11 to 18 with documented good oral hygiene
    * Have moderately to severely crooked teeth and/or misaligned jaws
    * Have taxable family income at or below 200% of federal poverty guidelines

    For parents who have a child that needs braces, this economy might seem an unlikely one to pursue orthodontic treatment since 2009 signaled decreased income for many families who previously may not have qualified for financial assistance.

    SCL wants to inform families that if their income decreased in 2009, they may be able to take advantage of this nonprofit affordable program.

    As 2009 taxes are filed, note line 43 on Form 1040 and visit Smiles Change Lives to see if the family meets SCL's financial qualifications.

    Dr. Frank Egan, one of SCL's partner orthodontists from Long Island, N.Y., supports SCL's program.

    "If we can just connect with the kids who need braces but can't afford to have them, then we'll be able give them a running start for the future," said Egan.

    For more information, visit Smiles Change Lives at Smiles Change Lives or call (888) 900-3554 to obtain an application via mail. Information is also available in Spanish.

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