With the final month of the year approaching and both holiday gifts and charitable contributions on many of our minds, it can be difficult to decide what to buy or where to donate. Oral health inequality has been a huge topic in the news lately. While many Americans receive medical care through social programs, most programs do not have adequate oral health coverage. Thankfully, there is a push in the U.S. Senate to change this, but in the meantime charitable organizations have stepped up to help provide the basic oral health care that is missing from many social programs.
This year, whether you are considering donating for tax purposes or holiday gifting purposes, consider giving the gift of a smile by donating to these worthwhile oral health charities.
Healthy Smiles, Healthy Children
Created in 1987 by the Foundation of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Healthy Children, Healthy Smiles provides education and materials to both dentists and the public to help teach kids about good oral health habits. The organization also works to increase children’s access to oral health services. Donations can be made here: https://www.healthysmileshealthychildren.org/.
National Children’s Oral Health Fund / America’s ToothFairy
The National Children’s Oral Health Fund (NCOHF) / America’s ToothFairy program operates more than 500 nonprofit children’s dental clinics throughout America. They also provide community education to children in underserved communities via their America’s ToothFairy program. Learn more and donate here: https://www.americastoothfairy.org/.
The San Diego County Dental Health Foundation
Founded in 1992, The SDCDHF aims to help underserved members of the San Diego County area by providing education and dental services. The organization also provides scholarships to students looking to enter the oral health field. Learn more here: https://www.sdcdf.org/.
Homeless Not Toothless
Founded in 1992, Homeless Not Toothless provides oral health care to fostered children and homeless and underprivileged individuals in the Los Angeles area. Homeless Not Toothless understands proper oral health is just as much about your dignity as it is about your health. Learn more and donate here: https://www.homelessnottoothless.org/.
These compassionate charities are all deserving of your charitable contribution – and they’re all guaranteed to put a smile on the face of a truly deserving person.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Abelar, please call 858-866-9692 today.
