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Brilliant 4.77rating (195)
  • Good Health And Well-Being

Dental Assistant for Local Communities

location
1 - 50 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified
Volunteer project with the highest quality. This project sets unprecedented standards in quality - an unparalleled level of excellence.

Highlights

  • Give back to the local communities while practicing Spanish.
  • Gain Spanish practice by living with a host family and sharing daily life with locals.
  • Make memories you'll never forget during your time abroad.

Highlights

  • Give back to the local communities while practicing Spanish.
  • Gain Spanish practice by living with a host family and sharing daily life with locals.
  • Make memories you'll never forget during your time abroad.
  • Learn more about the Latin American ways, customs and habits.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    50+

    About the program

    More than just teeth, it's confidence you provide! Lend a helping hand at a dental volunteer program and make a lasting impact on lives.

    Volunteers are typically placed in a dental clinic or general health clinic offering dental services in San Jose. The role of volunteers is to assist with day to day functions in the clinic while gaining valuable exposure to dental practice and the healthcare system in Costa Rica.

    Dental ...

    About the program

    Volunteers are typically placed in a dental clinic or general health clinic offering dental services in San Jose. The role of volunteers is to assist with day to day functions in the clinic while gaining valuable exposure to dental practice and the healthcare system in Costa Rica.

    Dental volunteers may be asked to:

    • Help out in the reception area with appointments and paperwork
    • Assist with teeth cleaning and check-ups
    • Shadow a dentist or hygienist
    • Teach patients about basic dental hygiene and healthy routines
    • Clean and prepare materials
    Please be prepared to work directly with Spanish-speaking project staff. You are always supported by Maximo Nivel’s in-country coordinators but they are not on site at your project every day.

    Our projects are located in the San José area. Walking or taking the bus is the most effective and cheapest way to get to and from the project. Travel time varies widely from project to project, and volunteers should expect to spend 15-60 minutes traveling each way. The average travel time is about 30 minutes. Depending on the project and housing locations, they may still need to change buses. Taxis are also widely available. On the first day at the project, participants travel on local transport with a Maximo Nivel representative who provides all the necessary information on how to get there and back.

    Typical day

    Working hours vary according to the needs of the project, but volunteers can expect to work 3-4 hours per day, Monday to Friday, in either the morning or the afternoon.

    Typical day

    Working hours vary according to the needs of the project, but volunteers can expect to work 3-4 hours per day, Monday to Friday, in either the morning or the afternoon.

    Free-time activities

    There are lots of things to do in San José, such as city tours, shows at the National Theatre, the central market, zip-lining, etc. Our local staff always post a monthly events calendar to let participants know about the activities going on around Maximo. Outside of San José, volunteers can hike ...

    Free-time activities

    There are lots of things to do in San José, such as city tours, shows at the National Theatre, the central market, zip-lining, etc. Our local staff always post a monthly events calendar to let participants know about the activities going on around Maximo. Outside of San José, volunteers can hike up volcanos, go whitewater rafting, take a trip to the Pacific or Caribbean coasts, and so much more. There are a lot of options and our staff is well-acquainted with the area and can advise you on the must-see places. Tours and trips can also be easily booked through our on-site travel partner.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Our fees include:

    - Airport pick-up
    - Host family accommodations (shared room with breakfast and dinner)
    - Program and safety orientation
    - Walking tour
    - Official certificate of volunteer service
    - Emergency contact number 24/7
    - Program management
    - Free Tandem Conversation Program
    - Free office-wide WIFI and computer lounge
    - Free social activities
    - Free coffee and tea and on-site snack bar
    - Maximo Nivel Institute open 7 days/week

    Airport Pickup at Juan Santamaria International Airport

    Airport pick up in San José is included. Volunteers find our representative outside the airport bringing a yellow flag with a smiley face on it.

    Accommodation

    Volunteers stay in a traditional family-stay where you they are placed with a pre-approved middle class Peruvian family. Breakfast and dinner are included in their home stay.

    Food & Beverages

    Volunteers have 2 meals included (breakfast and dinner) 7 days a week.

    Internet Access

    Limited access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose. We assist you to find cheap flights to Costa Rica. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Costa Rica provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Costa Rica you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Costa Rica. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Every Monday, all year round. 

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $624 per week 1 - 50 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    1 - 50 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.8
    Travelers’ Choice
    One of the most loved volunteer experiences, according to travelers
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    2025
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    Jessica Norcini

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    •
    2025
    Victor was the kindest most caring host dad and I couldn't imagine being with anyone else. My placement was beyond amazing and I am sad to ...
    Ella Carpenter

    Local Day Care Worker

    Location

    Americas > Central America > Costa Rica > San José

    Meet your project coordinator

    Stephan
    195
    reviews
    4.77
    Brilliant
    2003
    Founded

    Verified

      Very high response rate
    Spoken languages: Spanish, Afrikaans, English
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    You might also be interested in

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    Contact Stephan
      Very high response rate
    Spanish, Afrikaans, English

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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