How we qualify an applicant
The Happy Teeth Qualification Process
The Happy Teeth Project is a registered 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing funding and resources to Michigan children lacking access to dental care, including cosmetic dentistry. The program is funded through private donations. Our qualification process looks at many facets of an individual’s situation in determining need.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for our program, applicants must meet the following:
- The Applicant must be enrolled in 6th through 12th grade.
- The Applicant must not have previously received treatment through this program.
- The family must meet our income-based eligibility guidelines.
- Applicants must be enrolled in a Happy Teeth supported school. Please see the “Our Schools” section to confirm eligibility.
See Our Eligibility Guidelines
How to Apply
Completed Application & Required Documentation – "Please submit all required forms and documentation to your school counselor."
- Personal Essay (300–500 words)
- Tell us your story and explain your needs.
- Share how treatment would improve confidence and overall well-being.
- Letter of Recommendation
- From a teacher, pastor, coach, or another community leader.
- Academic & Character Reference
- A brief letter highlighting your child’s GPA, academic achievements (such as honor roll), character, and community involvement.
- This may include participation in sports, school clubs, church, or volunteer service.
- Note on Supplemental Forms
- The Financial Statement and Photo Consent Form are only required if the applicant is selected for final consideration.
- Apply Through a Partnering School District
- Applications can only be submitted through a participating school district at this time. We are actively expanding our partnerships — please check back periodically to see if your school is participating in The Happy Teeth Project.
What Happens Next?
- Nomination Process Each school delegate will nominate two student candidates for review by our collaborative selection board. This board includes representatives from the school district, The Happy Teeth Project, and a partnering local orthodontist.
- Confidential Review To ensure fairness, all identifying information will be redacted before review. The selection board will evaluate applications using a standardized scorecard.
- Selection & Alternates The two highest-scoring applicants will be selected to receive treatment. Two alternates will also be identified in case one of the original recipients does not meet final requirements.
- Notification Selected Smile Makers and their families will be contacted directly via phone and/or email.
The Happy Teeth Project is committed to fighting the pediatric oral health crisis in America.
Want to further our cause, and help us help Michigan children in need? Contact us today to see how you can help.
Learn More
"Our Happy Project"
My wife Jennifer and I started The Happy Teeth Project in May 2020, when, as all can universally attest, smiles were not so easy to come by.
Our Happy Mission
Our “Happy Mission” is to provide funding and resources to Michigan children who lack access to dental care and cosmetic dentistry needs. A child’s smile is not only an amazing sight, but it is truly a gift from God.
How Can Dentists Support Our Mission?
There are several ways we believe local dentists can best support our efforts.