Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Orthodontic Grant Program?

The Orthodontic Grant Program provides financial assistance to eligible individuals to help cover the cost of orthodontic treatment.

In most cases, the grant covers the full cost of treatment, as determined by the finalized treatment plan with the selected provider. If treatment costs change, please notify the program immediately so coverage can be reviewed. All treatment payments are made directly to the approved orthodontic provider.

Who qualifies for the grant?

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Live in a single-parent household
Meet the current age and income requirements
Demonstrate good dental hygiene practices
Have reliable transportation to and from orthodontic appointments
May not be currently wearing braces
Be able to pay the $50 nonrefundable processing fee to begin the application

What is a single-parent household?

A single-parent household is defined as a family unit where one parent—either a mother or father—is primarily responsible for raising one or more children without the presence of a spouse or partner in the same household.

How do I apply?

Complete your application here.

Is there a deadline to apply? How long does it take to be approved?

Eternal Smiles Foundation operates on a quarterly grant cycle, with specific application windows followed by review and notification periods. Eligible applications are reviewed and grants awarded the 3rd month of each quarter.

For the most up-to-date information on grant timelines, please visit our Applicants Start Here page.

Is there a fee to apply?

Yes. There is a $50 nonrefundable processing fee that must be paid before beginning the application.

Is the grant a loan? Do I need to pay it back?

No, the grant is not a loan and does not require repayment. However, the program reserves the right to seek reimbursement for funds paid to the provider if the applicant fails to honor their commitment to care.

Can I use my own orthodontist?

Yes! Families are welcome to continue care with their own chosen orthodontist. If you don’t already have a provider, you can select one from our list of Aligned Providers – orthodontists who support our mission – or choose any licensed orthodontist in your area who is willing to work within our grant process.

What types of treatment are covered?

Treatment recommendations are based on the orthodontic provider’s professional assessment and individualized plan of care. Please note that Eternal Smiles Foundation provides coverage for traditional orthodontic braces only and does not cover clear aligners or Invisalign-style treatment. All dental care before, during, and after orthodontic treatment remains the sole responsibility of the parent or guardian. Eternal Smiles Foundation is only involved in orthodontic care and does not cover dental expenses at any time.

What happens if I move or can’t complete treatment?

If your child moves or needs to change orthodontists after treatment begins, the grant does not automatically transfer. Funding is tied to the original provider and treatment plan, and continuation is not guaranteed.

New guardians must requalify, and any new treatment plan must be reviewed. Costs related to transferring care are typically the responsibility of the family.

Can I submit applications for more than one child?

Only one child per household may receive an Eternal Smiles orthodontic grant within a single calendar year. If one child is awarded a grant, additional siblings are welcome to reapply in the next grant year.

What geographic areas do you serve?

While our program started in Texas, we are able to consider children of single parents anywhere in the US because we do not have a fixed orthodontic network!