OUR MISSION

At Nosara Smiles / Nosara Sonríe, our mission is simple yet powerful: to transform lives by improving the oral health and well-being of children and adolescents in the Nosara district. Our annual free dental outreach program provides vital care to underserved families who otherwise have little to no access to dental services.

Every child deserves a healthy smile and the confidence it brings. For many in Nosara, that’s not a reality—yet. With your support, we can change that. Working closely with public schools and partnering with the Nosara Food Bank, we identify critical dental issues and provide life-changing treatments that prevent pain and promote lasting health.

But we don’t stop there. Our program is about more than fixing teeth; it’s about educating families, preventing future problems, and creating brighter futures for the children of Nosara.

Your generosity fuels this mission. By joining us, you’re not just donating—you’re giving the gift of health, confidence, and a chance for every child to smile brightly. Together, we can build a healthier, happier future for the next generation in Nosara.

 

 Join us in making a lasting impact on the health and happiness of Nosara's children and adolescents. Your support can transform lives through Nosara Smiles / Nosara Sonrie.

Here's how you can get involved:

Donate: Every dollar helps us provide free dental care and transform lives.

Volunteer: Dental professionals and skilled individuals—your expertise can change futures.

Spread the Word: Share our mission with friends and family. The more people who know about Nosara Smiles, the more significant our impact is.

Community Partnerships: If you represent a local business or organization, collaborate with us to strengthen our efforts in the Nosara community.

Together, we can create brighter, healthier smiles for the future. Act now and join Nosara Smiles' journey towards a happier, healthier Nosara!

Photo by Matthew Chenet


 

PAST EVENTS

May 2024

 

In May 2024, a dedicated team of six U.S. bilingual dental assistants, six Costa Rican dentists, and a group of community volunteers provided free dental care to over 1,240 school-age children in Nosara, Costa Rica, where access to affordable dental care is limited. During this second phase, the focus expanded to include children and adolescents from eight elementary schools, two high schools, and special cases referred by the Nosara Food Bank. Shockingly, 16% of those seen required extractions due to advanced tooth decay, while 65% had cavities or teeth that could still be saved, highlighting the ongoing and urgent need for these vital services.

 
 

Photo by Matthew Chenet

2024 STATISTICS

  • 1,242 children treated

  • 10 schools participated

  • 6 U.S. bilingual dental assistants  

  • 6 Costa Rican dentists

  • Over 20 community volunteers

  • Generous contributions from local sponsors and businesses

  • $18,000 cash donations 

  • $265,000 in-kind donations*

*This includes costs for travel, transportation, accommodations, meals, dental equipment, materials, and supplies for the volunteer crew and dentists.

 

 

 UPCOMING EVENTS

May 2025

From May 5 to May 11, 2025, our dedicated team of international and local dentists, assistants, and volunteers will come together once again to transform lives through the power of dental care. During this mission, we aim to provide free treatment to over 1,000 children—many of whom might never have access to such essential care.

We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Edunamica Nosara for the second year. Their support and facilities make it possible for us to deliver more comprehensive treatments, such as fillings and X-rays, in a safe and hygienic environment. Together, we’re building healthier smiles and brighter futures!

 

We also wish to thank the following organizations for their invaluable support: