Smiles Change Lives

05/29/2026

I’m so proud to see Dr. Dante Gonzales and his team in Tracy, California, as they approach their next Smiles Change Lives event—screening and treating underserved kids in their community. Having attended these events myself, I’ve seen firsthand the life-changing impact Dr. Gonzales and his staff have—giving kids confidence and bright futures who otherwise wouldn’t have access to care. Thank you, Dr. Gonzales, for being a beacon of hope.

05/15/2026

The theme this year is "Beyond Straight Teeth" and emphasized that orthodontics is essential for correcting bites, closing gaps, and preventing long term oral health issues.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children be checked around the age of 7 as allowing orthodontists to identify developing issues with jaw growth and tooth alignment.

Smiles Change Lives is proud to be a part of this important mission. We work alongside amazing providers everyday across the US to help children that otherwise would not receive treatment.

03/27/2026

Congratulations to SCL Provider, Dr Nellie Kim-Weroha of GLK Orthodontics ! She will become the (MSO) representative on the American Association of Orthodontists Board of Trustees. We are

https://www2.aaoinfo.org/dr-nellie-kim-weroha-to-join-aao-board-of-trustees/

03/13/2026

We got a sweet note from a Mom that we wanted to share. Her son is in treatment with Dr Niousha Saghafi at Fairfield Orthodontics. What a way to end the week!

"I wanted to take a moment to thank you for the incredible impact your organization has had on our son. He received a scholarship through Smiles Change Lives almost two years ago, and the experience has truly been life-changing for him.

We have seen his confidence grow so much during this process. While he still has several months of braces ahead, we have been extremely impressed with how everything has gone so far. The orthodontist and her team have been wonderful, and we are so grateful for the care they’ve shown him.

One of the most meaningful things for us as parents has been watching him take full responsibility for his appointments. He schedules them himself and makes sure he gets there. He works at Trader Joe’s and will often bring snacks or flowers to the office to thank the staff, which has been really special to see.

Thank you for making opportunities like this possible for families like ours. We are incredibly grateful for your organization and look forward to sharing after photos when his braces finally come off!

With sincere thanks,
Nicole

02/24/2026

Proud Dad waiting for his daughter, Faith, takes a moment to share his thoughts while she is at her orthodontic appointment. Shout out to Dr Steven Zombek and his team at Zombek Orthodontics for changing this young lady's life!

02/09/2026

A working lunch should always include some BBQ from 's Kansas City Bar-B-Que!!

from left: Dr Kelly Toombs of Toombs Orthodontics, Mark Oliveri and Pete Drozda of American Orthodontics, and Melanie Johnston and Alexis Barclay of Smiles Change Lives

01/23/2026

An SCL Provider sent us this letter he received from an SCL participant expressing her gratitude.

01/01/2026

12/29/2025

There's still time to make a tax deductible donation. https://smileschangelives.org/get-involved/donate/

12/11/2025

For more than 30 years, Smiles Change Lives has helped transform the lives of over 20,000 children in partnership with more than 1,000 orthodontic providers nationwide.

As we wrap up the year and look ahead to a strong start in 2026, we are seeking additional support to expand our reach and impact.

Your year-end, tax-deductible contribution will help us:

✅ Implement new systems to improve efficiency
✅ Recruit and retain additional provider partners
✅ Shine a spotlight on orthodontists who give back
✅ Provide life-changing treatment to underserved children

If you’re looking to make a meaningful difference before the year ends, please consider supporting Smiles Change Lives.
Together, we can help even more kids receive the confident smiles they deserve.

Smiles Change Lives has helped over 15,000 children since 1997 with the cost of braces. Give a child something to smile about! Make a donation to Smiles Change Lives today!