Applications closed on April 30, 2026.
Only applications fully completed by the deadline will be considered. Eligible applications are now being reviewed.
Successful applicants will receive decision letters starting in mid-November.
A smile is a powerful thing. It can uplift spirits, inspire courage, connect people, and reduce stress levels. Many young people struggle with dental issues that impact their self-esteem and prevent them from smiling confidently. Orthodontic treatment can often resolve these problems, but not every family has the financial means to afford it.
Smiles4Canada is a program run by the Canadian Foundation for the Advancement of Orthodontics (CFAO) in conjunction with the Canadian Association of Orthodontists (CAO). The program helps provide orthodontic treatment to deserving young Canadians, from low-income families, who wouldn’t be able to afford it otherwise.
To be eligible, applicants must be between 7 and 14 years old (born in years 2012 to 2019), or between 7 and 18 in Manitoba (born years 2008 to 2019). If accepted, patients will receive treatment from a local volunteer orthodontist participating in the program. Families are only responsible for a small administrative fee, typically less than 10% of the total treatment cost.
