In 2016, immediately after discovering Smile for a Lifetime—a jaw-dropping program (bad orthodontic pun) that rewards deserving, underserved minors with free orthodontic care—we knew its mission aligned perfectly with our core values. And so late last year, we launched the first Central Indiana Chapter of Smile for a Lifetime to bring free braces and Invisalign to those in need across Central Indiana.

Our Smile for a Lifetime program allows kids and teens in Indianapolis and the surrounding communities to submit their application for free orthodontic care—including full coverage of all digital scans, x-rays, appliances and all necessary treatments to straighten teeth and optimize oral health—and offers us a chance to live out our core values and serve the community on a deeper level.

Specifically, each our seven Groman & Bunch Orthodontic offices is committed to the following mission statement.

Improving the Quality of Life to Those Who Come to Us For Orthodontic Care

As orthodontists, our goal is to make people’s lives better by giving people the ability to smile or have confidence that maybe they wouldn’t have otherwise. We believe every deserves the chance to show off a healthy, good-looking smile, even those who might never be able to afford it on their own. Every child—despite his or her socioeconomic status—deserves a high quality of life, and Smile for a Lifetime helps us spread that message.

Striving for Excellent Results, an Enjoyable Experience, and the Confidence to Smile

In April 2017, the Smile for a Lifetime Board of Directors selected our first recipients for the program. We have been treating two Central Indiana teenagers over the past three months with braces and Invisalign, building their confidence to smile with each appointment.

Providing the Community With Exceptional Service

We currently operate the program out of our five offices in Carmel, Westfield, Kokomo, West Carmel/Zionsville, and Fishers. Anyone who is within reasonable driving distance—approximately one hour—of those offices can absolutely be part of this program. In 2017, we hope to serve more families by expanding the program to include our Marion and Wabash offices.

Who is eligible for Smile for a Lifetime?

Our Smile for a Lifetime Board of Directors meet three times a year to review applications and award up to six scholarships per term. Our board considers candidates who meet the following criteria:

• Between the ages 11 and 19 years old.
• Lives within one hour driving distance from our Carmel, Westfield, or Kokomo offices.
• Does not exceed family income threshold of 200% of the Federal Poverty Level Annual Gross.
• Has a significant esthetic need for braces.
• Agrees to follow the treatment plan, maintain good oral hygiene, and demonstrate the ability and commitment to make all appointments on time.
• Currently enrolled student who maintains a minimum 2.0 GPA.
• Willing to complete 40 hours of community service during the treatment period.
• Shows involvement and leadership in extracurricular activities.

If you or someone you know is in need of a healthy smile but without the funds to afford the cost of braces or Invisalign, review the qualifications and apply or share this with a friend or family member who could benefit. Our Smile for a Lifetime Board of Directors will be reviewing and selecting our next round of recipients in August 2017, so don’t delay!

If you have any questions, please reach out to Heather Edwards at 317-867-1133.