Delta Dental of North Carolina celebrated National Children’s Dental Health Month by announcing our 2026 Smiles for Kids grants to nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving oral health for North Carolina’s children and by spotlighting oral health education through Emerald Pine the Tooth Fairy’s library visits.
Investing in North Carolina's children through Smiles for Kids
National Children's Dental Health Month is a time when communities across the nation focus on the importance of good oral health habits for children. We were thrilled to announce our 2026 Smiles for Kids grantees during this time! This year marks the largest year of the Smiles for Kids grant program to date, with $160,000 awarded to 44 nonprofit organizations across North Carolina that are making a meaningful difference in children's oral health. Smiles for Kids grants fall into the categories of oral health education, dental health services, and dental supplies and equipment.
These grants support organizations that provide either oral health education or direct dental services to children who are underserved throughout our state. By investing in community-based programs, we are helping to ensure that every child in North Carolina has access to the preventive care and dental services they need to develop healthy smiles that last a lifetime. This commitment reflects our dedication to our mission: To improve the oral health and the overall well-being of the communities we serve.
This year’s Smiles for Kids grant program reached 13 new counties, increasing our total to 70 counties served across North Carolina. This growth moves us closer to our goal of reaching all 100 counties in the state and helps ensure that children in rural and underserved areas have access to the same oral health education and care as those in more populated communities. We remain firmly committed to the belief that every child deserves a healthy smile, no matter where they live.
Emerald Pine the Tooth Fairy hits the road
In honor of National Children's Dental Health Month, we also took our commitment to education on the road. Emerald Pine the Tooth Fairy flew around the state to visit four libraries, where she shared important oral health tips and read dental-themed books to children. These interactive storytelling sessions made learning about dental health fun and engaging, helping young children understand why taking care of their teeth is so important.
Why children's dental health access matters for our communities
Access to dental care is a critical component of overall health and well-being, yet many children in North Carolina face significant barriers to receiving the oral health services they need. Untreated dental problems can lead to pain, infection, difficulty eating and speaking, missed school days, and diminished quality of life. When children cannot access preventive care and treatment, these issues can have long-lasting effects on their physical health, academic performance, and self-confidence.
The impact of poor oral health extends beyond individual children to affect families and entire communities. Parents may miss work to care for children experiencing dental pain or emergencies, creating financial strain. Schools see increased absenteeism when students are unable to attend due to dental issues. By investing in community oral health programs through the Smiles for Kids grant program, we are addressing these challenges at their source and creating healthier, more resilient communities across North Carolina.
Watch our 2026 Smiles for Kids announcement on My Carolina Today
As we look ahead, Delta Dental of North Carolina remains committed to expanding the reach of the Smiles for Kids grant program and supporting partners who share our mission of improving oral health and overall well-being for children. Do you know a nonprofit organization that would be a good fit for a future Smiles for Kids grant? Our application for the 2027 Smiles for Kids cycle will open in the Fall!