Dental Humanitarian Clinics in the Pacific

Full Time Missionary Opportunities and Short-Term Volunteer opportunities available

Exciting opportunities are available for Academy members and dentist/hygienist
friends of the Academy (who are members of the church) looking to serve in humanitarian clinics in either Samoa, Tonga, or Kiribati. Whether you’re considering a short-term service trip or a full-time missionary assignment, these clinics provide essential dental care to underserved communities, teach
prevention to the students and strengthen oral health knowledge in the local community dental area. They also offer rewarding experiences for professionals and their families.

Pesega Dental Clinic – Samoa

The Pesega Dental Clinic in Apia Samoa has two full time missionary compliments. There can be two dentists or one dentist and one hygienist. The Two compliments both have housing in the upper village. At times, there may be available one additional house for volunteers (this depends on the number of Full time Senior Missionary Couples serving in the Apia Samoa Mission).  Dentists or Hygienists may volunteer from 5-15 clinic days.  Longer volunteer assignments are also available. For those interested in serving full-time, contact Dr. Brad Smith(cosmodent42@gmail.com or brad.smith@churchofjesuschrist.org ) or Dr. Rich Call (rlc.call@gmail.com) about opportunities.  Missionary callings typically range from 12 to 18 months, but specifics can be discussed. Comfortable housing is available both on and off campus at reasonable rates, and Samoa is known for its family-friendly environment.

Liahona Clinic – Tonga

The Liahona Dental Clinic in Tonga currently has two full time missionary compliments. Currently, one full time dentist and spouse and one full time hygienist serve in the clinic. This 6-chair clinic is designated for two full-time dental missionary couples, along with volunteers.  As in Samoa, volunteers may serve from 5-15 clinic days.  Longer volunteer assignments are also available. Missionary callings typically range from 12 to 18 months, but specifics can be discussed. On-campus housing is generally NOT available anymore for volunteers, except some occasions. However, there are several nice Airbnb or VRBO type rentals or two nice hotels.

Moroni Clinic – Kiribati

If you’re looking for the spiritual experience of a lifetime, The Moroni Clinic in the Republic of Kiribati (formerly known as the Gilbert Islands) is the place to serve.  While all of the clinics in the South Pacific provide wonderful experiences for humanitarian service, there is just a special spirit at the Moroni Clinic.  This facility is in the process of transition to the Church from Charity Vision.  This clinic, like the Samoa and Tonga clinic are run by a Full Time Senior Missionary dentist and spouse.  The Church provides the supplies and updates the equipment. Charity Vision has donated very nice equipment to date.  Volunteers are encouraged to plan on a minimum stay of 10 clinic days. The clinic is designed as a two-story facility, with the second floor serving as an apartment for volunteers, providing convenient on-site accommodations.

Get Involved

For more details or volunteer opportunities at any of these clinics, contact Brad or Sherrie Smith via phone or email at (480) 399-3450

cosmodent42@gmail.com or brad.smith@churchofjesuschrist.org or sherrie.smith@churchofjesuschrist.org   

You can take a look at prior service and humanitarian efforts in the South Pacific here: https://ensignacademyofdentistry.com/south-pacific-service-opportunities-prior-to-2020/

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Pacific Dental Clinics

Moroni High School – Kiribati

Pesega High School- Samoa

Liahona High School- Tonga