Antigua and Barbuda is set to benefit from a major boost in community oral healthcare as the Sandals Foundation, working alongside the Ministry of Health, brings the internationally recognised 1000 Smiles free dental clinic to the country for the first time.

The initiative was officially previewed during a courtesy call meeting on Monday at Sandals Grande Antigua Resort and Spa, where health officials met with members of Great Shape! Inc., the United States–based volunteer medical organisation behind the dental mission.

The engagement brought together Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph, senior ministry representatives, Great Shape! leadership, and the Sandals Foundation, all reaffirming a shared commitment to expanding access to essential oral healthcare across Antigua and Barbuda.

This marks the first time Great Shape! Inc.’s dental programme is operating in Antigua and Barbuda, representing a significant regional expansion of a mission that has already served thousands annually in Jamaica, The Bahamas, Saint Lucia, Grenada, and Turks and Caicos.

Program Director Shantelle Senior-Clarke said the volunteer dental team is eager to begin delivering much-needed services, including examinations, cleanings, extractions, root canals, and other treatments determined through patient assessments. She commended the Ministry of Health for its strong support, noting that its direct involvement and logistical coordination were critical to ensuring the clinic’s smooth rollout.

Minister Joseph welcomed the visiting team and expressed appreciation for the partnership, describing the programme as a valuable contribution to strengthening community health and improving quality of life, particularly for those who may otherwise struggle to access dental care.

The Sandals Foundation highlighted its long-standing collaboration with Great Shape! Inc., noting that the partnership has spanned multiple Caribbean territories over several years. Executive Director Heidi Clarke emphasized that oral health is a cornerstone of overall wellbeing and said the foundation remains committed to leveraging its resources and networks to bring primary healthcare services directly to communities in need.

In Antigua and Barbuda, the foundation is supporting the initiative through accommodation and logistical assistance, volunteer coordination, and community outreach—efforts expected to benefit hundreds, and potentially thousands, of residents, especially children, seniors, and underserved individuals.

Sandals General Manager David Latchimy echoed that commitment, stating that true hospitality extends beyond resort walls. He said supporting free dental care aligns with Sandals’ core values of community empowerment and long-term positive impact, stressing that oral health plays a vital role in overall health outcomes.

The 1000 Smiles free dental clinic will operate from January 19 to January 30 at the Multipurpose Cultural Center, Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Pre-registration is currently underway at health centres and polyclinics in Villa, Glanvilles, Gray’s Farm, Clare Hall, Liberta, and Johnson’s Point. Members of the public are strongly encouraged to register early and take advantage of this rare opportunity to receive free, high-quality dental care.