about the founder
Luke Shaeffer
Luke Shaeffer is the founder of Operation Florida Mouthguard, a community-driven initiative focused on making protective mouthguards accessible to athletes across Florida. His journey began not in a clinic, but on the sidelines of a school game. While watching his school’s team compete, he noticed something troubling—many players weren’t wearing mouthguards at all, while others used ill-fitting or worn-out ones. Conversations with athletes confirmed his suspicion: cost was often the biggest barrier, and in some cases, players resorted to sharing mouthguards, a practice carrying serious dental and hygienic risks. This experience left a lasting impression on Luke. He understood the importance of oral protection and recognized how much was at stake.
A single blow to the mouth without proper protection could mean chipped teeth, gum injuries, or worse—costly dental procedures that many families couldn’t afford. For Luke, this wasn’t just about sports safety; it was about preventative care and education.
Driven by both compassion and ambition, Luke launched Operation Florida Mouthguard to fill this critical gap. His vision was simple yet powerful: no athlete should have to risk their health because of financial constraints. The organization partners with schools, community groups, and local clinics to provide affordable or donated mouthguards to student-athletes in need. In addition to distribution, the initiative also emphasizes education—teaching young athletes about oral hygiene, the dangers of using ill-fitting equipment, and the long-term value of protecting one’s teeth.
Luke’s dedication stems from a unique blend of personal passion and professional aspiration. Growing up, he always had an interest in health, fascinated by how something as routine as a dental visit could transform a person’s confidence and well-being. Operation Florida Mouthguard became an early stepping stone toward a dream of health equality. It gave him real-world experience in bridging health with community outreach, showing him how preventative care can make a tangible difference.
Under his leadership, the program has grown from a small, school-based effort into a broader movement. Athletes from football, basketball, wrestling, and other contact sports have benefitted from the organization’s outreach. By lowering barriers to access, Luke has helped hundreds of young athletes avoid unnecessary injuries and the emotional and financial burdens that come with them.
Yet, Luke sees this work as just the beginning. His long-term goals involve expanding Operation Florida Mouthguard across state lines, building stronger partnerships with dental schools, and creating sponsorship programs with professional athletes who understand the critical role of mouthguards in their own careers. He also hopes to inspire other aspiring dentists to consider community initiatives as part of their professional journey.
At its heart, Operation Florida Mouthguard is a story about recognizing a problem in everyday life and taking action. For Luke Shaeffer, what started as a simple observation at a school game has grown into a mission that combines sports, health, and service. His efforts continue to protect smiles, prevent injuries, and remind young athletes that proper care today can mean a healthier future tomorrow.
OPERATION FLORIDA
MOUTHGUARD
Free Mouthguard Distribution
At Operation Florida MouthGuard, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety of high school athletes by providing free mouthguards. Our mission is to promote healthy sports practices and reduce the risk of dental injuries among young athletes.
Safety Promotion Programs
We conduct safety promotion programs and educational workshops to raise awareness about the importance of mouthguards in preventing sports-related dental injuries among high school athletes.
Community Engagement
We engage with the local community, schools, and sports organizations to advocate for the use of mouthguards and to provide support in creating a safer sports environment for young athletes.
Customized Mouthguard Fitting
Our team offers customized mouthguard fitting services, ensuring that each athlete receives a properly fitted mouthguard for maximum protection and comfort.