For the past 10 years, Aspen Dental® has been breaking barriers to dental care through its impactful social initiatives, led by the flagship Healthy Mouth Movement. Since its inception in 2014, this program has delivered free dental care to over 30,000 underserved individuals and veterans across the United States and beyond, showcasing Aspen Dental’s unwavering commitment to improving oral health and transforming lives.
A Mission Rooted in Service
“Since day one, Aspen Dental practices have been 'yes' organizations, breaking down barriers so patients can access the care they so desperately need,” said Bob Fontana, chairman and CEO of The Aspen Group. The Healthy Mouth Movement began in 2014 with a focus on a group of individuals who deserve care the most: our nation’s veterans. This initiative was born from a desire to give back to those who have given so much, and the results over the last decade have been nothing short of inspiring.
Milestones of the Healthy Mouth Movement
From its early days with the Aspen Dental MouthMobile—a 42-foot mobile dental clinic that traveled over 150,000 miles—to its latest initiatives, the Healthy Mouth Movement has continually evolved to meet the oral health needs of underserved communities. The program’s highlights include:
1. Day of Service: A nationwide event where Aspen Dental practices provide free dental care to U.S. veterans, ensuring those who served our country have access to essential oral health services.
2. Smile for Your Service: Local offices sponsor a veteran’s entire treatment plan at no cost, restoring not just their oral health but also their confidence and quality of life.
3. Overseas Outreach: Aspen Dental care teams travel globally to deliver free dental care and education to communities in critical need.
4. TAG Oral Care Center for Excellence: Opened in 2022, this state-of-the-art facility in Chicago provides free, comprehensive dental care to underserved Illinois residents. In just two years, it has donated over $10 million in free services.
5. Aspen Dental MouthMobile: This mobile dental office traveled across the U.S. from 2014 to 2020, providing much-needed care to veterans and other underserved groups.
Decade of Smiles Initiative
To commemorate the program’s 10-year milestone, Aspen Dental launched the Decade of Smiles initiative, providing free, start-to-finish smile makeovers for veterans in 10 communities nationwide. This ambitious effort reflects the organization’s dedication to making a lasting impact on the lives of those who need it most.
Expanding the Mission
Aspen Dental’s efforts don’t stop here. As Fontana explains, “As we move into our second decade, we’re reimagining the future of this program to make an even bigger difference while staying true to the mission that has driven us from the start.” This commitment ensures that the Healthy Mouth Movement will continue to be a beacon of hope and support for underserved communities.
How to Get Involved
Aspen Dental invites dental professionals and community members alike to learn more about the Healthy Mouth Movement and participate in future initiatives. Together, we can help ensure that everyone has access to the dental care they need. To learn more on Aspen Dental’s social impact, visit https://youtu.be/ungvbNWdYu0 .
By providing innovative care solutions and fostering a culture of compassion, Aspen Dental is redefining what it means to serve communities in need—one smile at a time.