Apply for Treatment

Embracing Our Warriors is a nationwide charitable nonprofit dedicated to providing orthodontic treatment to disabled veterans and their immediate families. Newly formed in 2023, with rapid plans for expansion across the country.

Program Eligibility and Application Process:

Embracing Our Warriors provides Smile Service Award for free orthodontic treatment to disabled veterans who are experiencing financial hardship and need assistance with orthodontic treatment for themselves or an immediate family member, such as a spouse or child. Once screened, applicants are referred to a participating orthodontist who generously donates their services through our program.

A $100 application fee is required to cover the cost of processing applications. There is a maximum of two applicants per family, so please prioritize your family’s orthodontic needs. 

Eligibility Requirements:

• Honorable discharge with a Service-Related Disability
• Cannot afford the cost of orthodontic treatment
• Demonstrates good dental hygiene
• Exhibits a moderate/severe need for braces
• Family income should not exceed 300% of the federal poverty level
• Currently not in braces

APPLICATION PROCESS:

To be considered for a Smile Service Award, please complete the online application. Please answer of the questions and share why you believe you are deserving of a Smile Service Award.

The application process is competitive, and the number of Smile Service Awards that we can offer each year is limited. However, we will do our best to assist as many deserving individuals as possible. 

APPROVAL PROCESS:

1. The Embracing Our Warriors staff diligently reviews applications to determine eligibility. Selection is based on the comprehensive information provided within the application, considering both orthodontic and financial needs. It is crucial to submit all required information to ensure a thorough review. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
2. Once an applicant submits their application, they have 30-days to fax or email all necessary documents as listed. Failure to provide these items within the specified timeframe may result in archiving the application, necessitating a restart of the application process.
3. Upon receipt of all required documentation, your application will be screened for pre-approval. Service Smile Awards are chosen by a screening committee at the national office.
4. Following pre-approval, Embracing Our Warriors will begin locating an orthodontist within 30 to 45 minutes of the applicant’s home address. The process is competitive and may take approximately 4-6 months.
5. Once the applicant is pre-approved for the Service Smile Award and an orthodontist is located and the $100 application fee will need to be paid. Upon payment of this fee, the applicant’s file is sent to the participating orthodontist for the final step in the approval process. The orthodontist will have 30 to 45 days to reach out to the patient for the initial consultation and final approval. If the applicant is not granted the Service Smile Award, the $100 application fee is refunded.
6. If an approved applicant relocates during treatment, Embracing Our Warriors cannot guarantee the availability of a participating orthodontist in their new location. The applicant will be responsible for the cost of completing the treatment.

NEEDED DOCUMENTATION:
(email documents to info@embracingourwarriors.org)

• Proof of Disability – Provide the current year’s VA Disability Award letter.
• Proof of Honorable Discharge – Provide a copy of your Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD214).
  If you need a copy of your DD214 or current year disability award letter, please click here to go to the eBenefits.va.gov website. If you have any difficulty obtaining your documents through the E-Benefits link provided, we suggest searching for your local veterans center for in-person assistance.
• Dental Clearance – Must be completed and returned by the applicant’s dentist as it explains all former problems and dental hygiene.
• Facial Pictures – Submit closeup photos of teeth using your phone or other device. Please take 3 photos, one from the front open mouth and one from each side.
• Proof of Income – A most recent copy of your complete tax return (to include all pages and schedules). Applicants receiving treatment must be listed on the return. A full credit report may be requested if a tax return is not filed. 
• Dependent—If you are applying for someone other than yourself, the applicant must be shown as a dependent (spouse, child).