By:Chris Munzing
Dr. Fred Danziger, who has practiced dentistry in Long Beach for more than 33 years, is running "Change A Smile - Change A Life," an essay contest that will give someone a complete cosmetic dentistry makeover.
Danziger said that he got the idea from watching reality television shows like "Extreme Makeover," a show that completely rehabilitates somebody physically through exercise and cosmetic surgery. Many say that the experience is life-changing.
"Every so often, I like to do something to give back to the community," Danziger said. "Your smile is everything. It's what invites people in."
Danziger said that the prize will be a complete rehabilitation of a neglected smile in need of repair. "Some might need some minor orthodontic work, others might need all their teeth capped," Danziger said, adding that he will focus on cases that can be completed within several months.
This is not Danziger's first foray into charitable dentistry. For many years, Danziger participated in various programs, including providing free dentistry on Valentine's Day to those in need. But after watching as some people abused his generosity, and not participating in the program for several years, Danziger decided to find something new. It was in a conversation with a colleague from Washington state that led him to "Change A Smile - Change A Life."
"He told me about the project and how it had helped people there," Danziger said. "And it occurred to me that there could be a needy person who could benefit from a cosmetic smile makeover here."
Danziger said that his colleague was one of many dentists in Washington who were participating in the program after they saw how it could affect somebody's life.
Danziger, who has already received a half dozen applications, said that colleagues and specialists have been calling non-stop to offer their services free of charge.
The outpouring of support from colleagues is also a great barometer for Danziger, who said that he would like the program to become annual and expand to other towns and areas of the country. "What about dentists from Malverne or from Suffolk County," he said. "I'd like to see it go national."
Danziger will be accepting applications from those in need through Jan. 31. Each applicant is required to also submit an essay of 100 words or less on why they deserve a dental makeover. Danziger will narrow down the applicants to four or five and will then bring each finalist in for a consultation. Danziger said he expects to make his decision in early February.
"I'm hoping that the people who really need it apply," he said. "The results of what this could do for someone is very exciting. Maybe it'll help them with their career or help them to meet someone. If you can do that for one person..."
Danziger said he was also considering going to other vendors with the idea of creating a complete makeover for the person chosen, including a chauffeured trip to a day spa for hair and a massage. "To give somebody who doesn't have much a day like that would be wonderful," he said.
For an application or more information on "Change A Smile - Change a Life," either visit Danziger's office at 324 W. Park Ave. or call 432-2837.
Comments on this story? CMunzing@LIHerald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 205.
