‘I pull out teeth, as elephants and lions stroll on by’: The dentist offering free global care
A global mission rooted in local impact
I pull out teeth as elephants – Not all heroes wear capes, but some carry tools and a mission to transform lives. In the latest installment of our Unsung Heroes series, we spotlight Mitesh Badiani, a 58-year-old dentist from Devon, England, whose initiative SmileStar provides dental care to underserved communities worldwide. His work, driven by a passion for accessibility and compassion, has brought relief to thousands—many of whom would never have seen a dentist otherwise.
Brian Badiani, as he is known, launched SmileStar in 2010 with the goal of addressing dental health disparities. The organization has since treated over 100,000 patients across continents, often in remote locations where healthcare resources are scarce. His approach is simple yet powerful: identify a need, mobilize resources, and deliver care directly to those who require it most.
From humble beginnings to international reach
Brian’s journey began with a single conversation. A teacher from Uganda reached out, asking if he could extend his services to a village in need. In 2009, he answered the call, traveling with his children and former wife to establish the first clinic. What started as a local effort quickly grew into a global movement, thanks to the support of corporate partners and volunteer networks.
Word spread rapidly, and soon safari companies in Africa began collaborating with SmileStar. These businesses, which operate in regions where wildlife thrives, offered their facilities as venues for volunteers. The result? A unique blend of adventure and service, where dentists and non-healthcare professionals can contribute while experiencing the natural wonders of countries like Kenya and Zambia.
Overcoming barriers in the wild
One of the most striking aspects of Brian’s work is the journey patients often make to access care. In some areas, individuals traverse miles under the cover of darkness, navigating encounters with lions and hyenas, just to reach a SmileStar clinic. The organization’s ability to set up a fully functional dental unit in as little as 15 minutes underscores its flexibility and dedication to immediate relief.
But the challenges extend beyond physical distance. In Africa, for instance, the prevalence of dental decay is linked to a peculiar cultural practice. Some corporations distribute free sugary drinks, which children sip and hold in their mouths to prolong the sweetness. This habit, while seemingly harmless, leads to severe tooth decay. Brian’s team has worked tirelessly to reverse these effects, offering not just treatment but education on oral hygiene.
Stories of resilience and hope
A man from a remote African village once approached Brian with a dire situation. He had jaw cancer that was eating away at his bones and had resigned himself to waiting for death. With SmileStar’s support, he received life-saving treatment and now proudly sports a titanium jaw, back to work and contributing to his community. Such stories are not uncommon, but they highlight the profound difference one initiative can make.
Humor often plays a role in these encounters. In Sierra Leone, a man claiming to be a former West Side Boys gang member attempted to bypass the queue. Despite the fear he inspired, Brian’s British demeanor defused the tension. “We queue in Britain,” he reminded the group, and the man eventually waited his turn. The result? Two teeth were extracted, and a smile was restored.
“I’m from Britain, we queue.” – Mitesh Badiani
Volunteers are the backbone of SmileStar’s operations. They pay around £3,000 plus airfare to join the mission, a cost that ensures sustainability while keeping care free for patients. The work is demanding, but it’s also enriched by moments of joy. In Congo, for example, volunteers might find themselves exploring the rainforest by day and sipping a G&T while watching elephants roam the savannah at night.
Brian’s commitment to his cause has taken him to 45 distinct tribes across the globe, earning him the title of honorary elder in two communities. His ability to connect with people, regardless of language or culture, has been a key factor in the success of SmileStar. Yet, the organization’s greatest triumph lies in its ability to turn strangers into allies, one smile at a time.
Legacy beyond the clinic
Among SmileStar’s most impactful programs is its partnership with the Royal Marines. Brian has enlisted dentists to treat 600 veterans pro bono, ensuring they receive care without financial strain. This long-term commitment reflects the organization’s philosophy: dental health is a universal right, not a privilege.
For Brian, the work is more than a profession—it’s a calling. “I love what I do,” he says, emphasizing the fulfillment that comes from seeing patients regain their confidence and quality of life. His story is a testament to how ordinary individuals can create extraordinary change, one extraction, one conversation, and one shared moment of hope at a time.
Connecting the world through smiles
SmileStar’s reach extends to 14 countries, including India, Kenya, Zambia, and Tanzania. These locations were chosen not just for their need, but for their cultural richness and the opportunity to engage with diverse communities. The team’s ability to adapt to local conditions and build trust is what makes their work so effective.
While the clinic operates with precision, the human element is equally vital. Patients often arrive with more than just dental issues—they bring stories of hardship, resilience, and gratitude. For Brian, each encounter is a reminder of the importance of his mission, and the joy of witnessing transformations in people’s lives.
As the sun sets over a bustling clinic in a remote village, Brian’s team reflects on the day’s work. The challenges are many, but so are the rewards. From the roar of a lion outside the building to the quiet determination of a patient awaiting treatment, every moment is a thread in the tapestry of SmileStar’s global impact.
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