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Tri-Cities Heroes Encouraged to Apply for Life-Changing Procedure

JOHNSON CITY – The Regional Center for Dental Implants & Oral Surgery in Johnson City has launched its second annual Smiles for Veterans program. It will provide one Tri-Cities hero who is in failing oral health with a free smile makeover.

Local veterans who have difficulty eating, smiling, or speaking because of missing or failing teeth, along with the confidence and self-esteem issues that accompany it, are encouraged to apply for the life-changing full-arch restoration procedure, which would normally cost about $50,000.

The application period for Smiles for Veterans opens Oct. 1 and runs through Oct. 31. The program is offered to active-duty, reserve, and veteran military personnel throughout the Tri-Cities region. Applicants need to answer a few simple questions and submit digital photos of their current smile and teeth.

For more information or to apply, visit theregionalcenter.com/veterans. This year’s recipient will be selected based on their compelling story, financial need, and health history.

Being involved in the community and helping veterans in need is a cause that is close to the heart of Dr. Matthew Sherban of the Regional Center. He completed his oral surgery training at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and served in the United States Navy for eight years.

Donald Dishner, a resilient 43-year-old Navy veteran from Erwin, Tenn., was chosen as the practice’s first-ever Smiles for Veterans recipient in 2023. He has battled feelings of embarrassment and a lack of confidence due to broken and decaying teeth. “It’s lowered my self-esteem and caused a lot of issues mentally,” Dishner said. “I’ll finally be able to smile in pictures and not hide my smile.”

Follow on Facebook and Instagram for more program updates, and learn more about dental implants and full-arch restoration to see how they can improve a patient’s overall health and confidence.