In neighborhoods across Chicago—from the South Side to the North Shore—families often face difficult decisions when it comes to orthodontic care.
Smiles Change Lives helps make treatment possible.
Affordable Orthodontic Options in Chicago
We partner with orthodontists who are committed to helping children in need.
Eligibility Requirements
Children must initially meet these qualifications:
- Are between ages 7–18;
- Have good oral hygiene and no unfilled cavities;
- Have a moderate to severe need for braces:
- Are not wearing braces currently;
- Family must meet the SCL financial guidelines (varies by geographic region); and
- Be willing to pay the non-refundable $30 (USD) application fee and then once the child has been accepted and matched with a provider willing to treat, the non-refundable $650 (USD) required financial investment (per child).
Serving Chicago and Beyond
We have providers across the greater Chicago area including:
- Chicago
- West Chicago
- North Chicago
- South Chicago
- Aurora
- Naperville
- Joliet
- Elgin
- Waukegan
- and Surrounding Suburgs (Evanston, Oak Park, Lake Forest, Buffalo Grove, Schaumburg, Elmhurst, Lyons, and Chicago Heights to name a few)
It’s Not Just About Straight Teeth
“Please accept our deepest thanks for a life changing experience for my daughter. She smiles all the time now and has a sense of confidence I’ve never seen before. To everyone responsible please know that you have helped another child regain a huge part of herself back.” – Pamela
What Are the Steps Involved?
- See if your child qualifies.
- Submit an application.
- Get matched with a participating orthodontist near you.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
Do any of the programs offer free braces programs in Chicago?
While fully free braces are rare, programs like Smiles Change Lives make treatment significantly more affordable for qualifying families.
What do braces/aligners cost through this program?
Costs are reduced compared to traditional orthodontic care and vary based on eligibility.
How long is the wait time in the Chicago area?
Wait times vary. Some families are placed quickly depending on provider availability in their area.
Do I need insurance?
No, you don’t need insurance. Most families we serve do not have orthodontic coverage.
A Path Forward
There may be a solution you haven’t explored yet.
Complete the following to see if your child qualifies.
Map of Providers in the Greater Chicago Area
Smiles Change Lives works with the AAO (American Association of Orthodontists), and has been endorsed as the preferred access to care program by several state orthodontic associations.