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Led by CEO Steve Higginbotham, Smile America Partners is the world’s leading Dental Service Organization (DSO) specializing in mobile and portable dentistry, working with dental practices across the country to bring dental care to underserved children at school.
Through its innovative mobile dental program, Smile America Partners brings essential dental care directly to schools, ensuring that children have access to quality dental services. Its mission is to bring smiles and good oral health where they are needed.
Collectively, the team cares for 328,000 underserved children each year. Many of these students have never seen a dentist in their lives. Some don't even own a toothbrush. Some children say they share a toothbrush with siblings. It’s often heartbreaking to see the level of decay in these children's teeth.
Steve’s mantra has been: "One More Child." In a nutshell, it's a rallying cry to the team to do their level best to see one more child each day they are at a school because he knows the difference the care will make for that child and their parents, often for the rest of their lives. Giving these kids the education and building blocks to ensure their future dental health is a strong motivator and gives the team a sense of purpose.
Steve often says, "The need is great. The rewards are greater." There's no better feeling than knowing you've made a difference in a child's life.
The team serves school children in 19 states, with plans to add another 2-3 states within the next 12 months. After beginning with just a handful of schools, the dental teams now visit 7,000 schools across the country each year. At the heart of the growth model is the question: ‘How can we help more kids get care?’
“Some might say I’m a bit sappy when I talk about our work, but it strikes a chord with me,” said Higginbotham. “I like to think I inspire the team by making a point to offer words of recognition and encouragement, but truth be told, it’s the team that inspires me!”
True to his humble nature, Steve has been heard saying, “I’m the least important person in the organization. Our team tirelessly helps children get the dental care they need to improve their lives today and into the future. I couldn’t be prouder.”
Steve can be reached at SHigginbotham@mobiledentists.com. Learn more at SmileAmericaPartners.com
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