AAO Foundation Gifted Smiles Program Seeks New Volunteers

A widely recognized AAO Foundation (AAOF) program designed to expand access to treatment has a new name. Donated Orthodontic Services is now Gifted Smiles.

Since its inception in 2009, Donated Orthodontic Services has provided orthodontic treatment for children from families with financial need. The American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) recognized the program with a Power of Associations Silver Award in 2022.

AAO member volunteers provide treatment for eligible patients on a pro bono basis. With many approved applicants waiting for treatment, the AAOF seeks to expand the Gifted Smiles volunteer pool.

“The new name that we selected, Gifted Smiles, in part reflects our belief that a healthy, beautiful smile is a gift for life,” said AAOF President Dr. Lili Horton. “We currently have 300 AAO member volunteers who are providing this gift for patients who have qualified to receive treatment. Our volunteers find it is a wonderful opportunity to give back to your community – and in return, experience the joy and appreciation of a young patient who may not have expected to be able to have orthodontic treatment.”

Children 18 years of age or younger, with good oral hygiene, are eligible to apply for treatment via Gifted Smiles. They must not be currently undergoing or in between phases of orthodontic treatment.

Gifted Smiles is managed by a dedicated team member of the AAO Foundation and provides all front-end assessments of financial eligibility and readiness to comply with treatment requirements. Volunteers treating Gifted Smiles patients focus on treatment only, with no minimum requirement for cases accepted.

“Our Gifted Smiles manager, Tabitha Smith and I are working to ensure that the volunteer process is easy and seamless for all AAO members who work with this program,” said AAOF Vice President Brett Schott. “Our goal is always to take the guesswork out of providing charity treatment, for the doctor and his or her team.”

To learn more and join the network of caring practitioners nationwide, visit the Gifted Smiles volunteer page.