Unspoken Smiles Preventive and Green Dental Clinic

The problem I'm addressing is the significant burden of preventable oral diseases, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where access to dental care is limited. Oral diseases, such as dental caries (tooth decay) and periodontal diseases, affect 3.58 billions of people worldwide, causing pain, discomfort, disfigurement, and even death in severe cases. According to the Global Burden of Disease 2019, untreated dental caries in permanent teeth is the most common health condition globally.

Despite being largely preventable, these conditions persist due to various factors, including limited access to preventive and treatment services, particularly in resource-constrained settings. Moreover, the cost of dental care is often high, and many countries do not include oral health services in their universal health coverage (UHC) programs, further exacerbating disparities in access to care. The factors contributing to the prevalence of oral diseases are multifaceted and include modifiable risk factors such as excessive sugar consumption, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and poor oral hygiene. These risk factors are often influenced by social and commercial determinants, making the problem complex and challenging to address comprehensively.

Our solution, the Unspoken Smiles Preventive Dental Clinic, is a pioneering dental practice that combines preventive care with green dentistry principles to promote oral health and environmental sustainability. Here's how it works:

1. Free Services for Children: We provide complimentary preventive dental services to children under 17 years old. By offering these free services, we aim to promote healthier smiles from an early age and alleviate financial strain on families.

2. Affordable Subscription Model: Our clinic offers affordable subscription plans for individuals, families, and small businesses. These plans ensure access to essential basic dental care for all, regardless of financial status. By adopting a subscription model, we aim to make dental care more accessible and affordable for everyone.

Our approach not only focuses on preventing oral diseases but also integrates sustainable practices into every aspect of our operations. From using eco-friendly materials and reducing waste to implementing energy-efficient technologies, we aspire to become the world's first fully preventive and green dental clinic.

By addressing the global burden of preventable oral diseases through preventive care, sustainability, and improved access to dental services, we aim to set a new standard for sustainable dentistry in the Americas and beyond. Our mission is to promote overall health and well-being while minimizing our environmental footprint.

Our solution serves two main groups:

1. Children under 17: We prioritize laying the foundation for healthier smiles from a young age by offering free dental services to children. Many families struggle to afford dental care for their children, leading to untreated oral health issues that can affect their overall well-being. By providing free services, we ensure that financial barriers do not prevent children from receiving the care they need. This investment in their oral health sets them up for a brighter future with fewer dental problems and better overall health.

2. Individuals, families, and small businesses: Our $17 monthly subscription model makes quality dental services accessible to those without dental insurance coverage. Many individuals and families face financial constraints that make regular dental care unaffordable. By offering a low-cost subscription option, we remove financial barriers and ensure that everyone can access essential dental services without worrying about high costs. Additionally, as a registered NGO, all subscriptions are tax-deductible, encouraging community support and sustainability. This creates a reliable revenue stream, reducing dependency on donations and ensuring continuity of care for our subscribers.

Overall, our solution directly impacts the lives of children by providing them with essential dental care without financial barriers, setting them up for a healthier future. Additionally, it improves access to dental care for individuals, families, and small businesses, promoting better oral health outcomes and overall well-being for our community members. By addressing the needs of these underserved populations, we strive to make a meaningful difference in their lives and contribute to building healthier, happier communities.

Our team at Unspoken Smiles is uniquely positioned to deliver this solution because we are deeply embedded in the communities we serve, and our approach is guided by the principles of community empowerment and sustainability.

1. Representation: Our team lead and members are representative of the communities we serve. We come from diverse backgrounds and have firsthand experience with the challenges faced by underserved populations in accessing dental care. This proximity allows us to understand the specific needs and preferences of these communities and tailor our services accordingly.

2. Community-Driven Approach: The design and implementation of our solution are meaningfully guided by the input, ideas, and agendas of the communities we serve. Through partnerships with dental schools nationwide, we identify students who demonstrate a commitment to community service and oral health advocacy. Our fellowship program empowers these students to become impactful leaders in oral healthcare by providing them with comprehensive support and resources. Additionally, our community outreach activities are informed by the needs and priorities identified by local community members, ensuring that we address their specific oral health concerns.

3. Sustainable Impact: We are committed to creating sustainable impact beyond the duration of our fellowship program. By equipping fellows with the skills and resources to establish their own dental clinics post-graduation, we ensure that they can continue serving their communities in the long term. This approach fosters self-reliance and empowers local healthcare professionals to address the ongoing oral health needs of their communities.

4. Track Record: With 20 fellows onboarded from dental schools across Costa Rica, representing six countries in the Americas, we have already made significant strides in advancing oral health and empowering future dental professionals. Our track record demonstrates our ability to effectively recruit, train, and support individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of others.

Overall, our team's proximity to the communities we serve, coupled with our community-driven approach and commitment to sustainability, positions us as the right people to design and deliver this solution. By empowering future dentists and transforming communities, we aim to create lasting change in oral healthcare accessibility and outcomes.

As a growth-phase initiative, Unspoken Smiles has already made significant strides in its mission to empower future dentists and transform communities through oral health advocacy. Here's what we've accomplished so far:

1. Fellowship Program Implementation: We have successfully launched and implemented our Fellowship Program, which recruits dental students from schools across the Americas. Through partnerships with dental schools, we have identified and onboarded 20 Fellows who demonstrate a commitment to community service and oral health advocacy.

2. Comprehensive Support: Our Fellows have received extensive personal and professional development support, equipping them with the necessary skills and resources to become impactful leaders in oral healthcare. This includes mentorship, training, and access to a global network of dental professionals.

3. Community Outreach: Our Fellows have actively engaged in community outreach activities, including providing oral health education, screenings, and preventive care in local schools. They have directly impacted the lives of community members, particularly children, by promoting oral health awareness and delivering essential dental services.

4. Clinical Experience: Through our preventive dental clinic model, Fellows have gained valuable clinical experience by treating adult patients under the direct supervision of designated faculty members. This hands-on experience enhances their clinical skills and reinforces their commitment to serving underserved communities.

5. Post-Graduation Support: We have begun laying the groundwork for post-graduation support by offering additional resources, including financing options, to help Fellows establish their own dental clinics. This ensures the sustainability of our efforts and empowers Fellows to continue serving their communities independently.

Overall, our accomplishments reflect the growth and impact of Unspoken Smiles as we continue to advance our mission of advancing oral health and empowering future dentists. Through our Fellowship Program and community outreach initiatives, we have served beneficiaries across the Americas, making meaningful contributions to oral health equity and community well-being.

We are applying to Solve because we believe in the power of collaboration to drive meaningful change. While we have made significant progress in establishing our preventive dental clinic and Fellowship Program, we recognize that there are still barriers to overcome in scaling our impact.

Specifically, we hope Solve can help us address the following challenges:

1. Access to Resources: As a growing organization, we need access to financial resources, technical expertise, and strategic guidance to scale our operations and reach more underserved communities. Solve's network of partners and supporters can provide valuable resources and connections to help us overcome these barriers.

2. Expansion and Sustainability: We aim to expand our reach beyond Costa Rica and further establish our presence in other countries across the Americas. Solve can support us in navigating the legal and cultural challenges associated with expanding into new regions, as well as provide insights into market dynamics and opportunities.

3. Partnerships and Collaborations: Collaboration is key to our success, and Solve can facilitate connections with potential partners, including dental schools, healthcare organizations, and community groups. By forging strategic partnerships, we can leverage collective expertise and resources to amplify our impact and reach.

4. Capacity Building: As we continue to grow, we recognize the importance of building the capacity of our team and Fellows. Solve can provide access to training programs, mentorship opportunities, and technical assistance to enhance our organizational effectiveness and ensure sustainability.

Overall, we see Solve as a valuable platform that can help us overcome financial, technical, legal, cultural, and market barriers by connecting us with partners who share our commitment to advancing oral health and sustainability. We are eager to collaborate with Solve and its network of partners to accelerate our impact and drive positive change in communities across the Americas.

Our solution, the Unspoken Smiles Preventive Dental Clinic, is innovative in several ways:

1. Focus on Preventive Care: Unlike traditional dental clinics that primarily focus on treating dental issues after they arise, our clinic prioritizes preventive care. By offering free dental services to children under 17 and affordable subscription plans for individuals, families, and small businesses, we emphasize the importance of regular check-ups, cleanings, and education on oral hygiene practices. This proactive approach helps to identify and address oral health issues early, preventing more serious problems in the future.

2. Integration of Sustainability: We are committed to advancing oral health sustainably through innovative green dentistry practices. Our clinic minimizes waste, conserves resources, and uses eco-friendly materials wherever possible. By integrating environmental sustainability into dental care practices, we set a new standard for sustainable dentistry and demonstrate the feasibility of reducing the environmental impact of healthcare services.

3. Collaboration with Dental Schools: Our Fellowship Program engages dental students in community outreach activities, providing them with hands-on experience in delivering preventive dental care. By partnering with dental schools nationwide, we not only address the critical oral health needs of underserved communities but also nurture the next generation of dental professionals who are committed to community service and advocacy.

4. Tax-Deductible Subscription Model: Our $17 monthly subscription model is not only affordable but also tax-deductible as we operate as a registered NGO. This encourages community support and sustainability by tapping into the goodwill of individuals and businesses. By making dental care accessible and financially feasible, we catalyze broader positive impacts by encouraging more people to prioritize their oral health and supporting the sustainability of our clinic's operations.

5. Post-Graduation Support for Fellows: Beyond graduation, we continue to support our Fellows in establishing their own dental clinics, empowering them to continue serving their communities independently. This not only expands access to dental care but also fosters a network of dental professionals committed to community service and sustainability, creating a ripple effect of positive impact in the field of dentistry.

Our solution has the potential to catalyze broader positive impacts in the dental care space by showcasing the effectiveness of preventive care and sustainability practices. By demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of these approaches, we hope to inspire other dental clinics to adopt similar models, leading to a shift in the market landscape towards more sustainable and accessible oral healthcare.

Overall, the Unspoken Smiles Preventive Dental Clinic offers a holistic and innovative approach to addressing the global burden of oral diseases. Through our focus on preventive care, sustainability, collaboration with dental schools, tax-deductible subscription model, and post-graduation support for Fellows, we aim to catalyze positive change in the oral health landscape and create lasting impacts on the well-being of communities.

Our theory of change outlines how our solution, the Unspoken Smiles Preventive Dental Clinic, will have a positive impact on the problem of oral diseases, particularly in underserved communities:

1. Activities:

   • Provide free dental services to children under 17 and offer affordable subscription plans for individuals, families, and small businesses.
   • Collaborate with dental schools to recruit and train dental students through our Fellowship Program.
   • Conduct community outreach activities, including oral health education, screenings, and preventive care.
   • Integrate green dentistry practices into our clinic operations to minimize environmental impact.

2. Immediate Outputs:

   • Children receive essential preventive dental services without financial barriers.
   • Individuals and families access affordable dental care through subscription plans.
   • Dental students gain hands-on experience and training in delivering preventive care and community outreach.
   • Community members receive oral health education and screenings, leading to increased awareness and early detection of oral health issues.
   • Clinic operations adopt sustainable practices, reducing waste and environmental impact.

3. Short-term Outcomes:

   • Reduced incidence of oral diseases among children and adults due to early intervention and preventive care.
   • Increased awareness of the importance of oral health and hygiene practices in communities.
   • Improved oral health outcomes, including fewer dental caries and periodontal diseases.
   • Empowerment of dental students to become advocates for oral health and sustainability in their future careers.
   • Reduction in environmental impact through the adoption of green dentistry practices.

4. Long-term Outcomes:

   • Improved overall health and well-being of individuals and communities as a result of better oral health.
   • Reduced financial burden associated with treating advanced oral diseases, leading to improved economic outcomes for families and communities.
   • Establishment of a sustainable model for delivering preventive dental care, ensuring long-term access to essential services.
   • Development of a network of dental professionals committed to community service and sustainability, catalyzing broader positive impacts in the dental care field.

Our theory of change is supported by evidence from research on the effectiveness of preventive dental care, testimonials from community members who have benefited from our services, and data on the impact of environmental sustainability practices in healthcare. Through our targeted activities and outputs, we expect to achieve meaningful short-term and long-term outcomes that address the problem of oral diseases and contribute to improved health outcomes and well-being for our target population.

Our impact goals for the Unspoken Smiles Preventive Dental Clinic are as follows:

1. Goal 1: Improve Access to Oral Healthcare: Ensure that all children under 17 have access to essential preventive dental services without financial barriers.

2. Goal 2: Promote Oral Health Education: Increase awareness of the importance of oral health and hygiene practices in underserved communities through educational initiatives.

3. Goal 3: Reduce Incidence of Oral Diseases: Decrease the prevalence of oral diseases, such as dental caries and periodontal diseases, among children and adults through early intervention and preventive care.

4. Goal 4: Empower Future Dental Professionals: Provide dental students with hands-on experience and training in delivering preventive care and community outreach, empowering them to become advocates for oral health and sustainability in their future careers.

5. Goal 5: Foster Environmental Sustainability: Minimize the environmental impact of dental care by integrating green dentistry practices into clinic operations, reducing waste, conserving resources, and using eco-friendly materials.

6. Goal 6: Improve Overall Health and Well-being: Contribute to improved overall health and well-being of individuals and communities by promoting better oral health outcomes.

7. Goal 7: Enhance Economic Outcomes: Reduce the financial burden associated with treating advanced oral diseases, leading to improved economic outcomes for families and communities.

To measure our progress towards these impact goals, we track several key indicators:

1. Number of Children Served: Measure the number of children under 17 who receive free preventive dental services through our clinic.

2. Community Outreach Reach: Track the number of community outreach activities conducted and the number of participants reached with oral health education and screenings.

3. Prevalence of Oral Diseases: Monitor changes in the prevalence of oral diseases among children and adults in communities where our clinic operates.

4. Training and Development of Fellows: Assess the professional development and impact of Fellows through surveys, evaluations, and post-graduation tracking.

5. Environmental Impact: Measure the reduction in waste, resource consumption, and carbon footprint achieved through the implementation of green dentistry practices.

6. Overall Health Outcomes: Evaluate improvements in overall health and well-being indicators, such as reduced pain and discomfort related to oral health issues.

7. Economic Impact: Assess the financial savings and economic benefits realized by families and communities as a result of improved oral health outcomes and reduced treatment costs.

By systematically tracking these indicators, we can evaluate the effectiveness of our interventions and make data-driven decisions to optimize our impact and achieve our goals. Additionally, by aligning our efforts with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, we contribute to a broader global agenda for sustainable development and ensure that oral health is systematically integrated into efforts to promote health, well-being, and environmental sustainability.

The core technology that powers the Unspoken Smiles Preventive Dental Clinic is a combination of digital tools, communication platforms, and sustainable practices aimed at delivering accessible and effective preventive dental care while minimizing environmental impact.

1. Digital Health Records: We utilize digital health record systems to maintain comprehensive patient records, including medical history, treatment plans, and progress notes. This technology allows for efficient data management, improved communication among dental team members, and enhanced coordination of care.

2. Telehealth and Remote Monitoring: Our clinic employs telehealth technologies to provide remote consultations and follow-up appointments, particularly for patients in remote or underserved areas. Through video conferencing and secure messaging platforms, we can assess patients' oral health status, provide guidance on oral hygiene practices, and monitor treatment progress without the need for in-person visits.

3. Patient Engagement Apps: We leverage mobile applications to engage patients in their oral health journey. These apps provide educational resources, appointment reminders, and personalized recommendations for maintaining optimal oral hygiene. By empowering patients to take an active role in their oral health, we promote better adherence to preventive care practices and long-term health outcomes.

4. Sustainable Dental Practices: Our clinic integrates green dentistry practices to minimize environmental impact. This includes using eco-friendly materials for dental restorations, implementing energy-efficient technologies, and adopting waste reduction strategies such as recycling and proper disposal of hazardous materials. By prioritizing sustainability, we reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to environmental conservation efforts.

5. Community Outreach Platforms: We leverage digital and traditional communication platforms to reach and engage with community members for oral health education and outreach initiatives. This may include social media campaigns, community events, and partnerships with local schools and organizations. By raising awareness about the importance of oral health and promoting preventive care, we empower individuals to prioritize their oral health and well-being.

6. Training and Education Platforms: For our Fellowship Program, we utilize online learning platforms and virtual training sessions to provide education and support to dental students. These platforms facilitate interactive learning experiences, enabling students to acquire essential skills and knowledge in preventive dental care, community outreach, and sustainability practices.

In summary, the Unspoken Smiles Preventive Dental Clinic harnesses a range of digital technologies and sustainable practices to deliver accessible, high-quality preventive dental care while minimizing environmental impact. By leveraging digital health tools, telehealth technologies, patient engagement apps, and sustainable dental practices, we strive to improve oral health outcomes, empower individuals to take control of their oral health, and contribute to a more sustainable future for our planet.

Our solution team consists of:

• 5 full-time volunteer staff members
• 20 part-time fellow staff members
• 3 contractors or other workers.

We have been working on the Unspoken Smiles Preventive Dental Clinic solution for less than a year.

At the Unspoken Smiles Preventive Dental Clinic, we are deeply committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within our team and creating a welcoming environment where all team members feel valued and supported. We recognize that diversity strengthens our team by bringing together a range of perspectives, experiences, and ideas, ultimately enhancing our ability to address the complex challenges we face.

Our approach to ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion within our team includes several key components:

1. Diverse Leadership Team: Our leadership team is intentionally diverse, reflecting a range of backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We believe that diverse leadership is essential for guiding our organization's strategic direction and decision-making processes effectively.

2. Recruitment and Hiring Practices: We prioritize diversity in our recruitment and hiring practices, actively seeking candidates from underrepresented groups and ensuring that our job postings reach diverse audiences. We also utilize blind screening techniques to mitigate unconscious biases and promote equitable evaluation of candidates.

3. Training and Development: We invest in training and development opportunities to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion awareness among our team members. This includes workshops on unconscious bias, cultural competency, and inclusive leadership practices.

4. Equitable Policies and Practices: We have established policies and practices that promote equity and minimize barriers to opportunity for all staff members. This includes equitable compensation and benefits, flexible work arrangements to accommodate diverse needs, and opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

5. Inclusive Culture: We foster an inclusive culture where all team members are welcomed, respected, supported, and valued. This includes regular team meetings to discuss DEI topics, open-door policies for feedback and concerns, and initiatives to celebrate and recognize the contributions of diverse team members.

6. Continuous Improvement: We regularly assess our DEI efforts and seek feedback from team members to identify areas for improvement. We recognize that DEI is an ongoing journey, and we are committed to continuously evolving and adapting our practices to create a more inclusive environment.

Through these efforts, we aim to create a team that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and embodies our commitment to equity and inclusion. By fostering a culture of belonging and respect, we empower all team members to thrive and contribute to our mission of advancing oral health sustainably and making quality dental care accessible to all.

Our business model is structured to provide value to our key customers and beneficiaries while ensuring sustainability and scalability of our operations. Here's how it works:

Earned Revenue:

• We offer a $17 monthly subscription model for individuals, families, and small businesses, providing access to essential preventive dental care at a fixed monthly fee. Subscribers benefit from regular check-ups, cleanings, and discounts on additional services, encouraging regular dental care and promoting better oral health outcomes.
• Because we are a charity, all subscription fees are tax-deductible, providing additional value to our customers while supporting our mission.
• For children under 17, we provide free preventive dental services, ensuring they receive essential care without financial barriers and setting them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Grants and Sponsorship:

• We seek grants and sponsorship from foundations, corporations, and other organizations to support our operations and initiatives.
• These funds are used to cover operational expenses, expand our outreach efforts, and invest in technology and infrastructure to enhance our services.

In-Kind Contributions:

• We welcome in-kind contributions, such as equipment donations, pro bono services, and volunteer support, which help to supplement our resources and expand our impact.

Value Proposition:

• For individuals and families: Access to affordable and high-quality preventive dental care, leading to improved oral health outcomes and reduced dental expenses over time.
• For small businesses: Access to cost-effective dental benefits for employees, promoting overall health and well-being in the workplace.
• For children: Free preventive dental services, ensuring they receive essential care without financial barriers and setting them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
• For dental students: Hands-on experience and training in delivering preventive care and community outreach, empowering them to become advocates for oral health and sustainability.
• For governments: Reduction in healthcare burden through preventive care initiatives, leading to improved overall health outcomes and cost savings.

By providing a range of services tailored to the needs of our diverse customer base and leveraging various funding sources, we ensure that our business model is sustainable, inclusive, and aligned with our mission of advancing oral health sustainably and making quality dental care accessible to all.

Our plan for achieving financial sustainability revolves around a diversified revenue model that includes a combination of earned revenue, grants, corporate sponsorship, and in-kind contributions. Here's how we plan to bring in money to fund our work:

1. Earned Revenue: We generate revenue through our $17 monthly subscription model for individuals, families, and small businesses, providing access to preventive dental care. Additionally, we offer fee-based services for non-subscribers, such as dental procedures and treatments. The revenue generated from these sources helps cover operational expenses and supports our mission of providing affordable dental care.

2. Grants: We actively pursue grants from foundations, government agencies, and other philanthropic organizations that align with our mission. These grants support specific programs, initiatives, and operational costs, enabling us to expand our reach and impact.

3. Corporate Sponsorship: We seek sponsorship from corporate partners who share our commitment to oral health and sustainability. Corporate sponsorship may involve financial contributions, in-kind donations, or strategic partnerships that provide mutual benefits to both parties.

4. In-Kind Contributions: We welcome in-kind contributions from individuals, businesses, and organizations, such as equipment donations, pro bono services, and volunteer support. These contributions supplement our resources and reduce our operational costs, enabling us to allocate more funds towards our core programs and initiatives.

To date, our plan to become financially sustainable has shown promising results:

• We have successfully onboarded a significant number of subscribers to our monthly subscription model, generating steady earned revenue streams.
• We have secured grants from reputable foundations and organizations to support various aspects of our operations, including community outreach programs and clinic expansions.
• We have established partnerships with corporate sponsors who provide financial support and in-kind contributions, further bolstering our resources.
• We have received generous in-kind contributions from volunteers, dental professionals, and community members, which have helped offset our operational costs and expand our impact.

Overall, our diversified revenue model and proactive fundraising efforts have positioned us well on the path to financial sustainability. By continuing to leverage multiple revenue streams and cultivate strategic partnerships, we are confident in our ability to fund our work and achieve long-term success in advancing oral health sustainably.