Smile Stories
A nonprofit fundraiser supporting
ADHA FoundationEvery smile has a story—and dental hygienists help make those stories possible.
$925
raised by 12 people
Jody Berinato's Smile Story
Jody Berinato, RDH, BS, FADHARecently I treated a patient who had not been to a dental office in a number of years. When I finished the necessary treatment, I gave him homecare instructions and asked if he had any questions. He said no, but thank you so much - I was so nervous to come in for my treatments and the way you explained everything to me allowed me to feel comfortable in the chair and motivated to continue to take care of my teeth. He then asked if he could give me a hug and thanked me again. My biggest goal as a hygienist is to make patients to feel comfortable and safe in my chair. I want them to feel heard and to celebrate with them their oral health wins no matter how large or small.
💙 Every Smile Has a Story
Behind every smile is something deeper—
confidence to speak up,
courage to show up,
and the freedom to be seen.
Smile Stories is a social-based fundraising campaign celebrating the real-life impact dental hygienists have every day. Through moments big and small, hygienists help shape stories of confidence, health, and hope—and this campaign brings those stories to life as we count down to National Smile Day.
When you make a $50 donation, you’re sponsoring a Smile Story—and helping amplify the voices and experiences that define the heart of the dental hygiene profession.
Once your donation is received, the Foundation will reach out to collect:
- Your personal Smile Story
- An image that captures the essence of your story, or
- A professional or semi-professional headshot (for submissions requiring HIPAA compliance)
Your story may be featured individually across our campaign—and will also become part of a powerful collective storytelling reveal at the end of the month, showcasing the incredible impact of dental hygienists leading into National Smile Day.
Every story shared helps educate, inspire, and remind the world why dental hygienists—and the smiles they support—matter.
✨ What Makes a Smile Story?
Smile Stories don’t need to be long or complicated. Sometimes, the most meaningful moments are the simplest ones.
Here are a few examples of stories hygienists might share:
🦷 From the Chair
- “A patient finally smiled in a photo at their child’s wedding after years of hiding their teeth.”
- “Someone told me it was the first time a dental appointment didn’t feel scary.”
- “A young patient learned how to care for their smile—and came back excited to show me.”
🎓 As an Educator or Mentor
- “A student gained confidence after struggling and realized they belonged in this profession.”
- “Watching a graduate treat their first patient with skill and compassion reminded me why I teach.”
🌍 Beyond the Op
- “Providing care at a community clinic where access was limited—and knowing it made a difference.”
- “Helping someone understand how oral health connects to overall health for the first time.”
❤️ The Quiet Wins
- “Listening, encouraging, and simply being present for someone who felt unseen.”
- “Helping a patient feel proud of their progress—no judgment, just support.”
Every smile tells a story.
Thank you for helping us share them.