Maine dentists help domestic violence survivors find their smiles again

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February 9, 2024

SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine — Some Mainers escaping domestic violence are often forced to live with missing teeth for years because of financial barriers to dental care. 

As part of a nonprofit statewide program, more than a dozen dental providers are restoring the power of a smile — free of charge. Finding Our Smiles has donated nearly $70,000 worth of dental work to survivors in Maine. 

Dr. Matt Lawler is an Oral Maxillofacial surgeon. He specializes in several procedures, from jaw fractures, and extractions to implants, and like most dental providers is trained to look for signs of abuse especially in children. However, he discovered a need to help patients whose teeth suffered from severe neglect because of abusive partners. 

"It's been very eye-opening for me," Lawler said. 

A year ago Lawler started treating the mother of one of his patients who needed a tooth implant, as a result of a controlling relationship in the past. 

"She was not allowed to see dentists, she was not allowed to take care of herself, and not allowed to brush her teeth. There was some pretty bad abuse," Lawler explained. 

Lawler and another oral surgeon in the practice, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates, Dr. Matthew Jacobsen are donating their services to women and children who are victims of domestic violence through the Finding Our Smiles program. 

Lawler is treating several other patients who need more extensive dental work, including dentures. 

"There are a couple of cases we are working with that need full mouth extractions," he said.

The program is part of Finding Our Voices, founded by Patrisha McLean, a survivor herself. The nonprofit is a statewide resource for survivors of domestic violence and is best known for posters featuring photo portraits of named Maine survivors.  

In less than a year, 17 dentists, specialists, and two dental labs have donated $66,000 in procedures, from implants, braces, and crowns to fillings. 

"We are so grateful to our participating providers. Five women have completed the dental work and have had their smiles back and 11 are currently in treatment," McLean enthused.

Thousands of dollars of treatment that is financially out of reach of many survivors. 

Maine Care does not cover implants which are still costly even with commercial insurance. 

Lawler said he is honored to help survivors move on from the past.

"It's awesome to help them achieve a better smile and a better life," Lawler said.