Sunshyne Smiles Program
The Sunshyne Smiles Program is a statewide program that helps provide orthodontic treatment to deserving South Dakota children who may not otherwise receive care. Children are accepted to the program through a referral from a general dentist. Eligibility is determined based on the severity of the child's orthodontic needs and their family's financial situation.
The seed money for the program was provided by: Delta Dental Foundation Fund; the South Dakota Chapter of The Order of the Eastern Star; and Dr. Mel Thaler of Sioux Falls. Funds continue to be raised from a wide array of donors throughout South Dakota.
A major portion of the cost of each orthodontic case is contributed by participating South Dakota orthodontists. Participating families contribute approximately $25 per month to the program toward the cost of their child's orthodontic treatment over the course of 40 months ($1000 total). The program assumes the difference ($3,000) between the family's contribution and the amount committed to the orthodontist, which is a total of $4,000 per case.
The program currently funds the cost of treatment from the following sources:
- individual contributions;
- fund raising events;
- sponsorships;
- grants; and,
- monthly family contributions.
The program's goal is to assist 25 South Dakota children/families annually in providing needed orthodontic care.
Contribute to the Sunshyne Smiles Program.
Sunshyne Smiles Application