AAPD Foundation

Kids in need can't wait - and neither should we.

EVERY child deserves a healthy smile. But for millions of kids, basic dental care is out of reach. It doesn't have to be this way. We turned to our community at and asked: what can YOU do to help?

Big or small, there's a role for all of us. 💛 Swipe through to see what our friends had to say! Maybe you'll get inspired to take your own step toward making a difference for children in need.

👇 Drop a comment below: what's ONE thing you can do to help kids get the dental care they deserve?

An easy option is donating to the AAPD Foundation! 100% of donations go to dental care for a child, whether it's routine cleanings or advanced treatments. With your support, we can ensure ALL little teeth get the care they need. Every dollar counts. Give the gift of a healthy smile at aapdfoundation.org/donate/

🏆 Congratulations to our 2026 Dr. Beverly A. Largent Access to Care Innovator Award recipient, Mr. Ernesto Hart of The Floating Hospital in NYC!🎉

We were honored to celebrate Mr. Hart at the AAPD Foundation's Donor Appreciation Reception last weekend, and what a celebration it was. The Access to Care Innovator Award recognizes an individual who uses passion and creativity to increase access to dental care for underserved children, even with limited resources. Mr. Hart is the definition of that mission.

Through Mr. Hart's vision and dedication, a single-chair, ship-based screening service identifying cavities among homeless shelter residents has been transformed into a fully equipped, high-capacity dental clinic serving thousands of unhoused and low-income children. And he has done it all while caring for children, migrant families, and survivors of domestic violence - some of the most complex and vulnerable populations - never losing sight of his mission despite the financial constraints so common among safety-net providers.

Those who know Mr. Hart say it best! He is the "heart" of The Floating Hospital. ❤He doesn't just treat teeth. He restores confidence, trust, and joy in every young patient who walks through the door. 🦷💙

The AAPD Foundation is proud to award Mr. Hart $10,000 to support The Floating Hospital's continued work expanding access to dental care.

To Mr. Hart: thank you!!! You inspire us all. We are proud to honor you and the vital work you do. May your creativity, compassion, and persistence continue to open doors - and smiles - for children who need it most.🙏

Thank you to Elevate Oral Care for sponsoring the Innovator Award and supporting healthy smiles. Together, we can make a big difference for little teeth!

To read more about Mr. Hart and the Dr. Beverly A. Largent Access to Care Innovator Award, head to aapdfoundation.org/blog/dr-beverly-a-largent-access-to-care-innovator-award/