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Dental Volunteer Program in Costa Rica
Are you a qualified dentist or a dental student? Do you like the idea of using your skills on a well-structured, meaningful volunteer program which really helps people in need? Does the opportunity to gain international experience of dentistry appeal to you? If so then look no further, as we have the perfect opportunity for you to do all of these things at the same time on our dental volunteering in Costa Rica.
Global Crossroad offers top class dental volunteer programs in the wonderful country of Costa Rica. Even though Costa Rica has one of the most developed healthcare systems in Latin America, there is still a large disparity between the treatment patients need and the care they actually receive. This is especially true in the dental field. Dental care programs provide the opportunity to meet communities’ everyday healthcare needs. Common conditions like cavities and gum disease can become quite serious if left untreated.
As an international volunteer, you’ll be a tremendous asset to local dental professionals who are forced to work with limited resources, funding, and support staff. Help underserved communities become more educated about dental hygiene and get the medical attention they deserve.
Volunteer Responsibilities & Impacts
Volunteers are typically placed in a dental clinic or general health clinic offering dental services. Responsibilities vary depending on the needs of the project and your specific studies or qualifications. Remember, you are there to help based on what is possible for both you and the project, which does not always include direct patient care. It is crucial to have realistic expectations, as there are inherent limitations to working abroad in the medical field.
Your role and independence when volunteering depend on your training and expertise, but are also determined by your Spanish skills, the duration of your program, and your ability to take initiative. You’ll have the opportunity 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, and clean and prepare materials.
Skills and Qualifications
To be eligible for this dental volunteer opportunity, you must either hold a recognized qualification in dentistry or be a student in this field of healthcare. Additionally, a foundational understanding of the Spanish language is not required but recommended.
Volunteering in this dental project in Costa Rica will be a rewarding experience and your days will be fun and exciting as you learn a great deal from local dentists.
Working hours may vary slightly, but you can expect to work 3-4 hours per day, Monday to Friday. Your volunteer shift is in either the morning or the afternoon depending on the needs of your project.
First Day : On your first day of volunteering in a dental project in Costa Rica, you will be brought to your project placement by our passionate in-country coordinator. They will introduce you to the local project staff and give you an informative orientation. You’ll learn about your duties, your schedule, safety protocol, and go over the culture and customs of Costa Rica.
Weekdays : Your dental work begins on the second day, and your schedule is going to vary based on your placement. A typical day might look something like this:
7.00 to 7.30 AM : Start your day off with a traditional Tico breakfast shared with your host family. You’ll probably have gallo pinto, a national favorite made with rice and beans with signature spices and flavors, some eggs, maybe tortillas, fresh juice, and café con leche.
7.45 AM : Leave your host family and travel to your project site. If you’re traveling by local bus, you can do so cheaply but show up early, but don’t be surprised if it’s late, and be prepared to stand if it gets really crowded. Spend a fantastic day as a dental volunteer in Costa Rica!
12.00 PM : Break for lunch. You might head home to your host family, or they may have sent you with a lunch to-go. If so, spend the time chatting with your fellow volunteers and make friends from around the world!
3.00 PM : After volunteering, you’ll have your evenings free to explore. Relax with your host family or team up with your fellow volunteers and check out the surrounding areas!
6.45 PM : Every evening you will share a traditional dinner with your host family. Immerse yourself in the local culture, practice your Spanish, and make the most of your time in this fascinating country.
Fees & Program Dates
Dates: Volunteer in Costa Rica
All volunteer programs in Costa Rica start every Monday of each month. However, if there is travel constrains, you can start any project on any day.
Fees: Volunteer In Costa Rica
Global Crossroad is committed to offering the most affordable and highest quality volunteering programs in Costa Rica. We strive to keep our costs low. The humanitarian side of the business is our passion.
Global Crossroad's volunteer program in Costa Rica application and registration fee cost US $299. The application fee covers the cost of advertising, program promotion, and office expenses (rent, utilities, and staff salaries in USA office).
In addition to the application fee, you are required to pay a weekly program fee. You will pay your weekly fee directly to the country coordinator, who in turn will allocate it to your host family, project and other in-country support we offer to our volunteers. This way, the fees that you pay will benefit those who rightfully deserve them, and not for company profit.
| Duration | Fees |
|---|---|
| 1 Week | $550 |
| 2 Weeks | $955 |
| 3 Weeks | $1,360 |
| 4 Weeks | $1,725 |
| 5 Weeks | $2,005 |
| 6 Weeks | $2,285 |
| 7 Weeks | $2,565 |
| 8 Weeks | $2,845 |
| 9 Weeks | $3,125 |
| 10 Weeks | $3,405 |
| 11 Weeks | $3,685 |
| 12 Weeks | $3,965 |
Comprehensive Travel Insurance $3.49/day ( below 28 years) and $4.49/day ( above 28 years) »
Spanish Immersion Classes – 2 Hour Group
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica - $150/week
San Jose, Costa Rica - $125/week
Program fees cover:
- Shared Accommodation with host family
- 2 meals per day (Breakfast & Dinner)
- Airport Pick up
- In-country support
- Program Orientation, Walking Tour, Safety Presentation
- Project Management
- Volunteer Certificate
- Discount for returning volunteers
- Letter of Recommendation (upon request)
- Emergency contact 24/7
- Access to computer lab, high-speed office-wide wifi at the institute, and access to weekly
- salsa dance classes and cooking classes
- Free coffee and tea at the on-site snack bar
Program fees exclude:
- Visas
- Airfare
- Miscellaneous personal expenses, soft drinks, food, etc.
- Daily transportation
- Airport return transfer
- Extra nights of housing (can be booked at an additional cost)
The Costa Rica volunteer program fees will cover expenses from the first day of your program to the last day of your program. If you arrive before the first day of the program or you decide you stay beyond your program’s last day, you will be responsible for any additional expenses.
Accommodation and Meal
While volunteering in Costa Rica, GCR makes sure you have a safe, clean, and comfortable place to stay, and that you are provided three healthy local meals per day. All of this is included in your volunteer fee, so you can focus on making the world a better place! We accommodate all dietary restrictions, diets, allergies and preferences without any extra charges. Make sure you let us know early so we can communicate this to your host family.
You will stay with one of our well screened host families throughout the project. Host families are socially respected members of their community who live in good neighborhoods and have lots of experience hosting international volunteers. The families are eager to share their culture with you and welcome you into a true home away from home. Practice your Spanish and experience daily life in Costa Rica!
Free Time Options
You’ll only be volunteering for an average of 4-5 hours a day, Monday-Friday. That gives you plenty of time to explore Costa Rica and make the most of your time abroad!
There are a number of art galleries and museums, theaters, shops, restaurants, parks, and live music venues for you to enjoy. You can also enjoy the beaches and rainforests. Meet the friendly locals and practice your Spanish!
Weekends are perfect for volunteers in Costa Rica to explore, and San Jose is a convenient hub to many exciting destinations around this small Central American country. You can visit volcanoes, zip line through cloud forests, surf or lounge on spectacular beaches, go hiking in rainforests, view exotic wildlife, jump off waterfalls, or soak in relaxing hot springs.
Learn more about your free time and weekend exploration in Costa Rica.
Spanish Immersion Classes
Would you like to learn Spanish and connect with the locals during your volunteering in Costa Rica? We offer affordable Spanish language classes in Costa Rica for our volunteers. To provide high quality Spanish lessons, we have teamed up with highly reputable Spanish schools with qualified Spanish teachers.
You can take 2 hours of Spanish classes per day during your volunteer program or join a week-long Spanish Immersion class before or after your volunteer activities.
Volunteer in Costa Rica: FAQs
Do you have a list of questions about the ins and outs of volunteering in Costa Rica? We have all the answers you’re looking for right here:
Arrival and Orientation
You will fly into Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose, Costa Rica, also known as SJO. Provide your flight details so a pickup can be set up for you, and keep GCR informed of any flight delays or changes.
Departure transportation is not included in the volunteer fee. Ask the local project staff if you need advice on setting this up.
Visa
You will need a tourist visa, but many nationalities can apply on-arrival at the airport. Do your research in advance to find out if you’re eligible. You can get up to 90 days and need proof of onward travel within that time frame. Your return ticket will do the trick.
You cannot extend your visa, and if you wish to stay longer volunteering in Costa Rica, you’ll need to cross the border for a short time, and obtain a new visa stamp for 90 days upon re-entry. Costa Rica has recently extended their tourist visa duration to 180 days. Learn more about the Costa Rican visa policy.
Vaccination
Protect your health and get up to date on all your routine vaccines, as well as Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines, recommended by the CDC. You’ll want to make an appointment to discuss all this with your doctor, and make sure you do it well in advance in case you need boosters. Learn more here:
Why volunteer in dental program?
Start your dental career with a powerful boost
There's no better way to kickstart your professional journey in dentistry than by embarking on an internship and benefiting from the guidance of seasoned experts. Gain valuable experience in the dental healthcare industry and acquire a unique international internship experience to enhance your resume, setting you apart from other job applicants.
Acquire essential dental expertise
Develop a wide range of essential dental skills and procedures, including but not limited to cleaning, repairs, extractions, and x-rays. Our dental volunteer program in Costa Rica provides an excellent opportunity to expand your knowledge in the field of dental healthcare and hone the skills required for success.
Embark on a journey to a foreign land
Costa Rica offers a genuine paradise experience, with its breathtaking beaches, towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush jungles sure to leave you in awe. The warm and welcoming Ticos and Ticas will capture your heart, making your journey even more unforgettable.Forge new friendships
One of the most rewarding aspects of volunteering overseas is the chance to form connections with diverse individuals from around the globe. Create lasting bonds with your fellow dental volunteers, the local project team, and new friends you meet as you explore and travel.
Other Volunteer Opportunities Available in Costa Rica:
No matter your passion or interests, we offer a variety of life-changing, volunteer programs in Costa Rica such as
childcare,
medical,
teaching,
volunteer vacation,
conservation and environment and much more.
For more information on our exciting programs in Costa Rica, contact us today.
Other Construction Programs Worldwide
There are many disadvantaged communities around the world who need your help! We organize construction programs in various destinations to help people in need.
Contact us today to find out more about our Construction Projects.