Donate to help transform the dental health of those in need

Help Stuart Bring Smiles to Costa Rica and Nicaragua!

Hello Legends,

My name is Stuart, and I am currently a dental student with a passion for making a difference in the world. This summer, I have the incredible opportunity to travel to Costa Rica and Nicaragua to provide much-needed dental care to underserved communities. But I need your help to make this a reality as it is completely self funded.

The Mission

In August, I will join a team of dental professionals and volunteers on a mission to improve oral health in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. These beautiful countries are home to many people who lack access to basic dental care, resulting in widespread dental health issues.

Why Costa Rica and Nicaragua?

While Costa Rica and Nicaragua are known for their stunning landscapes and rich cultures, they face significant challenges when it comes to dental health. Here's a glimpse into the situation:

Costa Rica

Despite having a public healthcare system, many Costa Ricans, especially those in rural areas, struggle to access dental care. According to the World Health Organization, dental caries (cavities) affect nearly 90% of the population. Poor dental hygiene and limited access to dental services contribute to high rates of tooth decay and gum disease.

Nicaragua

The situation in Nicaragua is even more dire. With one of the highest poverty rates in Latin America, many Nicaraguans cannot afford dental care. As a result, preventable dental conditions often go untreated. A study by the International Dental Journal found that over 70% of Nicaraguan children have untreated dental caries, and many adults suffer from severe gum disease and tooth loss.

Whilst in Nicaragua I will also have the fantastic opportunity to learn and help treat those with cleft lip and palate:- a rare experience that I hope I will learn from and be able to bring back skills to help those suffering from the condition in the UK.

How Your Support Helps

By supporting this GoFundMe campaign, you will help cover the costs of:

Dental supplies and equipment:

To help Purchase essential items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, filling materials and extraction tools.

Community outreach: Funding educational programs to teach proper dental hygiene practices to children and adults.

The Impact

Your contribution will directly impact the lives of many individuals who are in desperate need of dental care. By treating dental issues and educating communities about oral health, we can prevent future dental problems and improve overall health and well-being.

Imagine a child in a remote village experiencing relief from tooth pain for the first time or a parent learning how to care for their family's teeth. Your support will make these moments possible.

Cheers,

Stuart