History
In the spring of 2023, Dr. Tania Nkungula returned to Malawi following the passing of her brother. Motivated by a desire to honor both her brother and late father, she felt a deep calling to support Dr. James Mchenga—the sole Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon in the country. Witnessing the volume of complex surgical cases and the transformative impact of care provided was profoundly moving for Dr. Nkungula. Upon returning to the United States, she shared her experience with Dr. Shelby A. Curtis, who was inspired to join her efforts. This shared commitment to service led to the founding of Smiling Surgeons, Inc., an organization dedicated to advancing surgical care and changing lives in Malawi.
Smiling Surgeons advances life-changing maxillofacial surgery and trains local clinicians in Malawi so care continues long after each mission. Your gift directly funds complex procedures, post-operative care, medical kits for kids, and hands-on training for the next generation of providers. If you believe in sustainable, locally led surgical care, please make a contribution today.
Areas of Specialty
Oral Health — Restoring Confidence, One Smile at a Time
Oral health is the foundation of overall well-being. At Smiling Surgeons, we focus on preventive and restorative dental care that enables patients to eat, speak, and smile with comfort and dignity. Our volunteer teams provide checkups, cleanings, and treatments that detect and address oral conditions early, reducing discomfort and promoting lasting wellness.
Through education and personalized care, we help communities build lifelong oral health habits and brighter, healthier smiles.
Education — Empowering Local Providers for Lasting Impact
We believe knowledge is the most powerful tool for sustainable healthcare. Smiling Surgeons invests in training and mentorship programs that equip local professionals with the skills to deliver advanced surgical and dental care.
General Health
Your mouth is a window to your whole body. Gum inflammation and untreated oral disease are linked with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory illness. By keeping teeth and gums healthy, you’re also supporting your immune defenses, protecting cardiovascular health, and strengthening overall well-being.
Whole-Body Dental Care
We practice a whole-person approach to dentistry. Infection in the gums can enter the bloodstream and affect other organs. With preventive cleanings, periodontal therapy, early diagnostics, and clear home-care guidance, we reduce oral-related risks and help your entire body stay healthier for the long term.
