The Georgia School of Orthodontics (GSO) has partnered with the Georgia Dental Association Foundation for Oral Health to provide complimentary and high-quality orthodontic care to children of Purple Heart recipients through the ongoing Purple Heart Smiles program, which does not have a cutoff date or a maximum number of patients.
The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the United States armed forces who are killed or wounded in action. Georgia, which became a Purple Heart state in 2014 and has 10 Military Order of the Purple Heart chapters, is home to more than 5,000 veterans and active duty military personnel who have received the Purple Heart.
“We are grateful every day for the men and women who serve our country in the armed forces,” said veteran and GSO program director Dr. Ricky Harrell. “It is a privilege and an honor to be able to give back to Purple Heart veterans by providing their children with a beautiful, confidence-boosting smile.”
To qualify, children must be residents of Georgia age 16 years or younger and the son or daughter of a Purple Heart recipient or have a Purple Heart recipient serving as their legal guardian. Documentation needed for verification includes a DD Form 214, Purple Heart Certificate, and proof of being either the parent or legal guardian of the child.
Qualified recipients are guaranteed a complimentary initial orthodontic evaluation with one of GSO’s doctors. They also will receive free braces and continued orthodontic care for the duration of their treatment. Dental care or surgery needed before or during the treatment will not be covered. Any qualified dental insurance will be applied to the cost of care.
Families may apply to the program at bracestoday.com/purple-heart-smiles.
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