Dr. Mike Shirftcliff couldn’t have asked for a better Christmas present after learning The Oregonian chose Advantage Smiles for Kids for its annual Season of Sharing campaign, which asks readers for donations. .
Shirtcliff, president and CEO of Advantage Dental, created this nonprofit in 2003 after realizing low-income children lacked access to orthodontic treatment and related dental care. Such services are not covered by the Oregon Health Plan
"Crooked teeth and a bad smile are one of the biggest reasons for kids getting bullied," he said. "It is probably the most rewarding thing I have ever been involved with. The changes in kids' lives with a great smile are remarkable."
Currently, 196 children are receiving orthodontic treatment, while the help of 1,089 volunteer hours, according to Michael Vendrame, administrative director. Next year, 90 children are expected to get braces. Since the program’s inception, more than 435 children have received services.
With support from private and corporate donors, the program helps children in Oregon and Idaho. Referrals are encouraged from schools, social service agencies, health departments and tribal communities.
According to the Advantage Smiles for Kids website, “The daily reality for children with untreated oral disease and severely misaligned teeth or jaws is often persistent pain, inability to eat comfortably or chew well, breathing, swallowing and speech problems, embarrassment, poor dental health, low self-esteem, serious physical health problems, refusal to laugh or smile and distraction from play and learning. Untreated orthodontic problems also contribute to tooth decay, diseased gums, bone destruction, TMJ problems and loss of teeth.
“The professionals associated with Advantage Smiles for Kids understand how important it is for children to have a happy, healthy smile and that good oral health is essential to a child’s overall general health and well-being throughout their entire life.
“ASK’s goal is to obtain excellent oral, social, personal, psychological and physical health for the underprivileged children of our communities and ultimately improve their quality of life.”
Diane can be reached at [email protected].
