THE smiles of three people have been restored after they were selected as winners of the Aesthetic Dental Centre team’s annual Smile Brighter Giveaway.

Chené Botha, Mandy Read, and Khayelihle Maphumulo were chosen by the Glenwood practice from numerous heartfelt entries submitted by community members, each sharing how they had lost their smile. The initiative was launched to uplift individuals facing challenges that have affected their confidence and overall quality of life.

“We originally planned for two recipients, but the heartfelt nominations we received inspired us to extend the giveaway to three,” said the Aesthetic Dental Centre team. “Each story moved us deeply and reflected immense courage, love, and resilience.”

Botha, nominated by her daughter, is a former pre-primary teacher who now bakes for an income. In the image-driven world of social media, she avoided promoting her business because of her teeth.

Fifteen-year-old Lené wrote movingly about her mother’s struggle. “I heard my mom talking about wishing she could fix her teeth. It makes her very sad,” she said. Lené added that her mom hides the “not so bad side” of her teeth when taking photos.

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After Botha lost her job earlier this year, the family faced increasing hardship. “I just want my mom to feel happy and confident again,” she wrote.

Maphumulo, from Mtwalume, lost several teeth after a traumatic assault, which deeply affected his self-esteem and personality. His brother-in-law, Oscar Ncube from Umbilo, nominated him, saying, “He’s no longer the outspoken, happy person he used to be. Getting his smile back will restore his life.”

Read, described by her nominator Jan Hardie as one of those “rare souls whose selfless, humble character affects everyone she meets,” has long struggled with dental issues due to a family history of gum disease. “If she could be fitted with dentures, that hidden smile would become a bright, toothy grin,” said Hardie.

In November, each recipient received a full smile restoration. Their tailor-made treatment plans included dentures and restorative dental work, completed by the Aesthetic Dental Centre’s professional team.

“This project reminded us that dentistry is about so much more than teeth, it’s about restoring dignity, joy, and confidence,” the team said. “We’re deeply grateful to have played a role in giving these individuals back their smiles.”

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