What is Smile Easy?

Smile Easy is a student-run nonprofit 501(c)(3) based in South Florida, dedicated to alleviating dental anxiety through innovative, non-pharmacological interventions and comprehensive oral health education.

We collaborate with dental offices by pairing trained student volunteers who integrate anxiety-reducing interventions for patients experiencing dental anxiety. Additionally, we organize interactive dental hygiene workshops and distribute essential dental supplies in underserved communities, both locally and internationally. Smile Easy also provides undergraduate students with value opportunities in shadowing, volunteering, and research to prepare the next generation of health leaders.

Alleviating Dental Anxiety

Smile Easy integrates non-pharmacological interventions for those with mild to severe dental anxiety. These evidence-based practices reduce anxiety and fear associated with dental procedures. The interventions are done in person, all across dental offices in South Florida.

Such interventions include:

  • guided meditation

  • audio-visual therapy

  • interactive sensory tools

Expanding Community Oral Health Education

We create and deliver interactive dental hygiene workshops to children in underserved communities, locally and globally. During these workshops, our teams teaches essential brushing techniques, the importance of regular dental visits, and proper oral care. At the end, we distribute necessary dental hygiene supplies, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss to hundreds of children.

Research and Development

Under mentorship of Dr. Georgeta Vaidean, Victoria Cruz (Founder of Smile Easy) serves as the primary investigator in the research of prevalence of dental anxiety across various demographic groups and evaluating the effectiveness of non-pharmacological anxiety interventions.

All research is done under the guidance of Dr. Georgeta Vaidean from the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine at Florida International University.

Opportunities for Undergraduate Students

Smile Easy actively provides meaningful opportunities for South Florida undergraduate students, including shadowing dental professionals, participating in community service projects, and gaining valuable hands-on research experience. From FIU to BarryU to MDC.

Get Involved

Whether through donations, volunteering, or partnerships, your support enables us to continue expanding our impact. Join us in making anxiety-free dental care and comprehensive oral health education accessible to all

Meet the Team.

  • Victoria Cruz

    Founder, Executive Director

  • Thalia Abboud

    Vice Chair

  • Stephanie Romero

    Educational Program Lead

  • Alexia Romero

    Lead Research Assistant

  • Ayleen Amador

    Fundraising Chair

  • Mariano Valero

    Non-profit Management

  • Zaidee Lundeen

    Volunteer Coordinator

  • Marcia Garcia Rivas

    Volunteer Trainer

  • Monique Samuels

    Education Outreach

  • Lucia Gimenez

    Dental Outreach

  • Emilio Roque

    Media Management