Helping People Smile Around the World

Our Story

Smile Outreach International was born out of the founder, Dr. Mark Costes’ passion to utilize his skillset and those of his professional colleagues, to alleviate some of the pain and suffering that billions of people endure due to untreated dental disease.

In fact, according to the World Health Organization, it is estimated that 3.5 billion people worldwide are affected due to the lack of access to dental care. Smile Outreach International will provide dental surgeries and services to underserved populations throughout the third-world several times per year on an annual basis. The mission will be designed on a first come first serve basis for each project. These services are provided through a network of incredible volunteer licensed professionals and additional support teams.

The organization is funded through various methods, including individual donations, corporate donations, mission sponsors, and fundraising events. The money we raise goes directly to dental supplies, equipment, facilities, and mission logistics for all services and projects!

Our Mission

Smile Outreach International is dedicated to improving the oral health of underserved populations in third-world countries by providing access to dental care through a network of volunteer licensed professionals. Our mission is to relieve pain and suffering caused by untreated dental disease, by offering dental surgeries and services to those who are unable to access care.

Our Core Values

  1. Compassion: We deeply care about the pain and suffering caused by untreated dental concerns and we want to help those in need.
  2. Collaboration: We rely on a network of volunteer licensed professionals and sponsors to provide dental care and recognize the power of teamwork and coming together.
  3. Access: We believe that access to dental care is a basic human right and are committed to making it available to those who can’t readily access care around the world.
  4. Transparency: We are open and accountable in all our activities and operations, including fundraising, finances, and mission projects.
  5. Impact: We strive to make a lasting impact on the communities we serve by providing effective and efficient dental care services.

We’re always looking for new volunteers and supporters who share our values and want to help make a difference in the world. Please feel free to reach out if you’re interested in learning more about our organization or getting involved!

Our Vision

Our vision is to build a sustainable and scalable model for providing dental care to underserved populations, one that can be replicated and expanded to reach even more people in need.

 

Countries of Operation

tanzania

Tanzania
Itigi and Mulungwe

fiji

Fiji
Buca Bay on the Island of Vanua Levu

Mexico
Baja del Sur

Dominican Republic
San Jose De Ocoa

Check out pictures from our previous trips!

2025 Dental Mission Trips

Fiji September 26 – October 5, 2025

Smile Outreach International is partnering with The Mission at Natuvu Creek to bring essential dental care to Savusavu, Fiji. Last year, in just 12 days, our team served over 750 patients. Clinic hours run Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Volunteers enjoy beachfront housing, kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring the local culture—all while making a meaningful impact. Join us for a unique blend of service and adventure! 

Tanzania November 7 – 15, 2025

Experience a life-changing mission in Tanzania with Smile Outreach International, in partnership with the Dental Legacy Foundation. Volunteers will provide dental care in two clinics: St. Gaspar’s Hospital in Itigi and a rural clinic in Malongwe, a village without electricity or running water.

Clinic hours are Monday–Thursday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with opportunities to volunteer in local schools and community centers. The trip also offers an optional 2-day safari to Ngorongoro Crater to explore Africa’s stunning wildlife.

Colorado December 11 – 14, 2025

Be part of an impactful weekend mission in Greeley, Colorado, as Smile Outreach International partners with the Colorado Surgical Institute. Volunteers, including dentists, hygienists, and dental assistants, will provide essential dental care during clinic days on Friday and Saturday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, serving local communities in need.

This trip is a fantastic opportunity for a full dental team to work together and make a meaningful difference in a short amount of time. 

Volunteer Application

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Application will not be considered until all documents are provided.

Scholarship Opportunities

SOI is offering scholarships for dental assistants and hygienists to cover up to 50% of your trip cost, with a maximum of $1500! Want in? Just email us at [email protected] for the application, and our awesome committee will review it for approval.

It’s a fantastic chance to make a real difference on our mission trips, all while getting some financial help along the way. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join the fun and help communities in need!

Check out how we change lives around the world!

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

Meet Our SOI Officers

Dr. Mark Costes

President

Michael Lomotan

Vice President

Ashlee Hirschfeld

Treasurer

Kay Lange

Secretary

Meet Our Board of Directors

Dr. Allen Gotora

Dr. Aaron Nicholas

Dr. Addison Killeen

Dr. Justin Schmidt

Dr. Summer Kassmel

Thank you to our sponsors!