Smiles Change Lives

Shehee and Callahan Family Orthodontics is a proud partner of Smiles Change Lives, a national nonprofit organization that promotes and provides access to life-changing, essential orthodontic treatment for children from low-income families.

Smiles Change Lives has emerged as the nation's leader in providing access to orthodontic care for underserved youth.

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Ages 11-18 with good oral hygiene
  • Have crooked teeth and/or misaligned jaws
  • Taxable family income is at or below 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines
Interested candidates are encouraged to visit www.smileschangelives.org/qualify to determine if their family meets the financial guidelines. Families interested in applying can review program guidelines and download an application at www.smileschangelives.org/apply or by calling 888-900-3554. Applications are available in English and in Spanish.

Success Stories

From Cathy: “My daughter is now a senior in high school and thanks to you a very happy and outgoing young lady because of your program. She is not afraid to smile because now she has a beautiful smile. She is in the medical magnet program in school and is studying to become a nurse. I just wanted to say thank you because we could have never afforded to pay for braces.”

From Joe: “Before I had braces, I didn’t smile or talk a lot around people. It was too embarrassing with my really bad teeth. My mom wanted me to have braces but couldn’t afford it – but then I got accepted into Smiles Change Lives. My braces will be off soon, and I can’t wait to smile in front of all the people who used to laugh at me and call me names.”

From Deanna: “I can’t believe how my son has changed. He used to never smile, or even hold his head up. Now he is like a new person, very outgoing and very positive about himself. His teachers have even noticed the change in him.”

From Gabe: “At the time this incredible gift was made available to me, I was appreciative, but had no idea the true value of what I was getting. I have been without braces for three years now. I am no longer a shy young boy with funny looking teeth, but a man with goals and aspirations. You have given me something I never thought money could buy: self confidence.”