Why PTS Supports “Give Back A Smile”

What happens behind closed doors doesn’t always stay behind closed doors. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in four women and one in nine men are victims of domestic and sexual violence in the United States, which means, chances are, you know someone affected. It could be your coworker, neighbor or even barista at your favorite coffee shop, but there’s typically one of potentially many telltale signs: dental damage.

“This truly has been a lifesaver for me. Through counseling and having my teeth repaired, memories of that day and experience of being in an abusive relationship is in the past.”  –GBAS recipient

Rebuilding your smile after a domestic or sexual violence injury can be a challenging first step to take. Not only can horrific memories be regenerated, but shining light on the injuries can also bring to the forefront side effects of a lowered self-esteem and confidence. The impact of restoring these smiles on one’s emotional well-being and physical appearance can be life-altering.

That’s why Professional Transition Strategies (PTS) feels compelled to support the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry’s (AACD) nonprofit, Give Back A Smile (GBAS). The AACD Charitable Foundation’s flagship program, GBAS heals some of the effects of domestic and sexual violence by restoring the smiles of adults who have received dental injuries to the front teeth from a former intimate partner, family member or due to sexual assault.

Since the program’s 1999 inception, volunteer dentists, dental laboratories and other dental professionals have volunteered their time and expertise to restore the damaged smiles of more than 2,000 people for a total value of more than $18 million. There are currently about 140 people receiving smile restorations across the United States.

By serving the medical community, PTS understands the value doctors and dentists provide their communities, through giving confidence, medical services and, best of all, smiles. That’s why a percentage of revenue is donated to this inspirational nonprofit every year. By the end of 2020, the goal was to donate more than $250,000 to philanthropic partners.

To learn about how you can support GBAS, visit GBAS’ website and check out GBAS’ YouTube channel for more on the AACD’s philanthropic opportunities and announcements. The payoff will be priceless to those who are helped.