GI Smiles - Thank-a-Vet

Volunteers Needed:
- Dentist
- Endodontist
- Hygienist
- Oral Surgeon
- Prosthodontist

GI Smiles Thank-A-Vet Program
In 2025, the AzDA Cares Foundation launched the GI Smiles Thank-A-Vet program to improve Arizona veterans’ access to dental care.

Most veterans are not eligible for dental benefits through the VA. In fact, the American Dental Association estimates that 85% of veterans lack VA dental coverage, leaving a major gap in care. Oral health is vital to overall well-being, and AzDA Cares is committed to filling this need.

In the past, we offered free services at Veterans StandDown events. Now, GI Smiles expands that work by connecting veterans with ongoing dental care year-round.

How the Program Works

  • Identifying need: We partner with community colleges to reach student veterans who require care.
  • Connecting veterans with dentists: We match veterans with volunteer dentists in their area, providing access to ongoing treatment.
Our goal is to serve 200 veterans in 2025 with the help of Arizona dental professionals. By doing so, we honor their service, improve their health, and keep their smiles strong.

For Participating Dentists
  • Treat your matched veteran as you would any patient of record.
  • You decide how much care to donate and communicate that directly with the veteran. If they want to contribute toward costs, that’s allowed.
  • We encourage conservative treatment. A small grant is available to offset lab fees, reimbursing up to the cost of two crowns or one removable option. If you require additional support, please contact us.
  • If a referral is required and you know a participating specialist, you may refer directly to them. If not, we’ll help you find one.
  • If a match doesn’t work out, you can send the student back to us and we’ll connect them with another provider.
This program supports veterans while they are students using the GI Bill. After graduation, they’ll be able to afford their own dental care—and we hope they continue treatment with you as long-term patients.

Registration:

Doctors and hygienists without an Arizona dental license must apply for a volunteer license. It is your responsibility to maintain records of your volunteer license and renew it as necessary.
Spoken Languages:
Volunteer Options:
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Please contact me about donating funds to support this program