In North America and many parts of other established nations dental hygiene is a staple in everyday life. However, over the totality of our world there are too few dentists, moreover in poor communities the problem is even more pronounced. Our communities face significant oral health challenges and even in those living in situations where dental care is easily found, those that are poor simply can’t afford the care that’s available.
“Our health is connected in important ways to our systemic health, and when people go without the dental care they need, the effects ripple through their body and also affect their families and communities.” That wisdom from Joe Brennan of Smiles for the People accentuates how a simple act of buying a toothbrush can turn into an extraordinary act of generosity if companies provided for greater good instead of just for-profit.
Smiles for the People seeks to sell the highest quality and most environmentally responsible toothbrushes on the market. Made from 100% biodegradable bamboo the toothbrushes aren’t just effective but also will leave any design lover nodding in appreciation. They even ensure the packaging for the brushes are recyclable and shipped carbon neutral – because it’s their promise to the world to bring a better place. But the goal for the project isn’t simply to sell eco-friendly dental care essentials. For every toothbrush sold they give the equivalent of one toothbrush to someone in need in order to help improve the oral health of people who can’t access or afford a dentist.
In Argentina, Smiles for the People partners with Todos Juntos, which provides free dental, care for children that otherwise, would go without. Not only does Todos Juntos save children’s smiles and help children maintain their oral health, but they also help children prevent oral problems from developing in the first place. Without organizations like Todos Juntos children that have to suffer from a toothache could find themselves not being able to focus in school or eat with nutrition in mind. A simple dental problem that could be solved if dental care was available could have harsh impacts on the development of any child. “The smile is not only a symbol of happiness or self-esteem, but it reflects a person’s overall state of health and well-being. By giving people the power to smile, we are helping give them the opportunity to prosper.” says Joe Brennan.
To help create an amazing force of social change you can support the cause for a better dental world by grabbing a new bamboo toothbrush for just $5.95 on the Smiles for the People shop.