Gainesville orthodontist, First Lady announce "Smile" project

GAINESVILLE - Georgia's First Lady Sandra Deal was in Gainesville Monday to spread the word about proper dental care during Dental Hygiene Month. She visited students at Centennial and Mount Vernon Elementary Schools, and in between those stops, she joined Gainesville orthodontist Ron Wilson as he announced a new charitable venture.

"[It's] the Smile For A Lifetime Foundation, which is a foundation that we're starting here in Hall County and North Georgia," announced Wilson.

The foundation will provide orthodontic "scholarships" to children whose families cannot afford proper orthodontic care. Wilson says he hopes to provide complete care to at least 10 patients per year. He estimated the value of the orthodontic care at around $50,000.

Patients who apply for the scholarships and receive braces will have an obligation to give back to their community, too.

"It is possible a recipient can lose a scholarship," noted Wilson. "They must agree to keep all of their [orthodontic] appointments and care for their teeth. And, we're asking that they complete 10 hours of community service, as well."

First Lady Sandra Deal commended Wilson and his staff for their involvement in the organization, saying that the gift of orthodontic care would be a confidence booster to the recipients.

Board members for Wilson Orthodontics will review all applications for the scholarships and make the final decision on the recipients. Applications will be reviewed on a quarterly basis, with the first recipients expected to be announced in March. Applications should be submitted online via the office's website.

Wilson Orthodontics becomes just the fourth orthodontic group in Georgia to announce its association with the non-profit organization.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2011/2/236370