S.M.A.R.T. Smiles

The Saving, Maintaining, and Retaining Their Smiles or “SMART” Smiles program provides oral health education and preventative care to underserved, school-aged children, while helping to create a positive dental environment and implement a referral system for necessary dental treatment.

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About the Program

SMART Smiles is a community-led project attracting local dental professionals, service organizations, local and state agencies, and other interested volunteers who want to be part of a rewarding program that makes a positive difference in the lives of hundreds of elementary children. The children in need of urgent dental care are referred to a local pediatric dentist for treatment at no charge.

Since inception, the S.M.A.R.T. Smiles dental program has provided over $1.7 million worth of donated dental care to Elementary School aged children in the Texas Hill Country. Please join us to ensure every child has access to dental care!

The Process

School Eligibility

Elementary and middle schools with at least 55% of their students on a free/reduced lunch program are eligible for the SMART Smiles Program. Schools districts interested in the program must also raise local community support (financial and volunteer).

Screening

On Screening Day, students who have obtained consent from their parents or legal guardians for dental treatment are screened by a volunteer dentist. They receive a ‘dental report card’ that explains what areas of concern the dentist found and what preventive treatment the child will receive.

Treatment

On Treatment Day, students are called by class to the treatment room. Here they meet their hygienist and receive a preventive dental cleaning, necessary dental sealants, and an application of fluoride varnish.

Follow Up

For children requiring additional dental care, we will work with local dentists to give students and parents referrals to providers. A small treatment fund may be available to help children who cannot afford treatment.