Family First Dental in Rexburg officially opened in October 2025. Since then, it has strived to make a positive impact on the community, and its current initiative continues that mission.
The 1,000 Smiles Project is a mission to collect and donate toys to children in need. Anyone can go to Family First Dental’s office and drop off new, unwrapped toys now until Dec. 18. Each toy donated is one entry into a giveaway where five winners will be selected to receive free dental care for an entire year.
Dr. William Stout is the lead dentist at Family First Dental, who says the inspiration to do the project came suddenly.
“I was woken up in the middle of the night and given the idea that if I wanted to create a culture that is meaningful, this is how I’m going to do it,” Stout said. “That night the 1,000-smile project was born. This idea of giving back to the community and creating smiles.”
Stout first introduced the project in the Tri-Cities area in Washington, but this is the first time it has happened in Rexburg.
He says the enriching influence of the project affects all involved.
“It really does have an effect on families and on those that participate in it too,” Stout said. “For those families who really need dental work but can’t afford it, what a huge blessing it is to them to get needed dental work done that they’ve been putting off for years. It’s made a huge difference for them.”
Although this is only the second time, Stout says the project has been special.
“We were able to hand these gifts to the children and their families and see the smiles on their faces and how excited they were,” Stout said. “Many of these families can’t afford food, let alone gifts for Christmas. It’s super special.”
Anyone can participate and make donations, not just clients.
“This is a great opportunity to give back to the community, give to families who need it, to love your neighbor and do good in our community.”
Family First Dental is located on East Moody Rd. near Walmart. For more information, visit the Family First Dental website.