Soul Surfer and former Damon™ System braces patient Bethany Hamilton and Ormco Corp, Orange, Calif, the manufacturer of Damon System braces, announced the winners of a nationwide search for fan-created emoji designs to add to the Bethany Hamilton Damon™ Smile Emoji keyboard. Earlier this year, Damon Braces and Hamilton opened the contest by inviting consumers to submit unique emoji designs for a chance to have them featured on the newest version of the keyboard, which is now available. Hamilton hand-selected the winner from hundreds of submissions. The five new emojis feature a smiling mermaid with braces, to Bethany embracing a shark, and inspirational quotes. According to a press release from Ormco, the five new emojis aim to inspire confidence and the power of a healthy, beautiful smile, whether in or out of orthodontic treatment. In addition to having their designs added to the keyboard, winners received a prize pack that included an autographed skateboard deck from Hamilton.
“I had so much fun reviewing the emoji entries and was impressed with all of the creative, detailed designs that people from across the country submitted,” said Hamilton. “Just as Damon Braces helped me gain confidence when I needed it the most, I hope that my fans continue to embrace what makes them unique and special. I love being an emoji, and with the newest additions to the Damon-inspired keyboard, it’s even more fun to send and share stickers that encourage confidence in every aspect of life.”
Hamilton and Damon Braces launched the interactive emoji keyboard earlier this year as a way to celebrate self-confidence, encourage consumers to take pride in their unique qualities, and embrace the positive impact of orthodontic treatment with braces. Now comprised of 26 unique emojis that can be shared using popular messaging apps, including iMessage, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp, the keyboard can be downloaded for free via the Apple iTunes or Google Play store.
“From Damon Braces patients and orthodontists to devout fans of Bethany, the Damon-inspired emoji keyboard continues to help educate people on the impactful benefits of orthodontic treatment and take pride in their smile journey,” said Patrik Eriksson, president of Ormco Corp. “Here at Ormco, we are committed to fostering initiatives that help educate consumers on the value of orthodontic care and spark conversations between Damon Doctors and their patients. We enjoyed seeing so many fans submit ideas to our emoji contest, and look forward to introducing the refreshed keyboard to further inspire confidence among people of all ages.”
