Changing Smiles.
Changing Lives.

Alliance for Smiles provides free comprehensive cleft lip and palate treatment to children in underserved communities around the world while training and equipping local medical providers to deliver sustainable, long-term care.

Since 2004, Alliance for Smiles has partnered with local communities and volunteer medical teams to provide life-changing care for children born with cleft conditions — helping children gain the opportunity to eat, speak, smile, and thrive.

Through surgical missions, medical training, and sustainable care initiatives, Alliance for Smiles works to create brighter futures for children and families around the world.

Worldwide, about one in 700 children are born with a cleft lip and/or palate, yet access to safe and affordable treatment remains out of reach for many families.

Children born with cleft conditions often face challenges with eating, speech, hearing, dental development, and social acceptance.

In underserved communities, these challenges can become life-threatening due to limited medical care, poor nutrition, and social stigma. A single surgery can dramatically improve a child’s health, confidence, and future opportunities.

What Is a Cleft Lip?

A cleft lip is an opening in the upper lip that forms before birth and can affect appearance, feeding, and development.

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What Is a Cleft Palate?

A cleft palate is an opening in the roof of the mouth that can affect feeding, speech, hearing, and oral health.

Why Treatment Matters

Timely surgery and follow-up care can improve a child’s ability to eat, speak, hear, and thrive.

The Good News

Cleft conditions are treatable, and a simple surgery can help change the course of a child’s life.

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Learn more about  support resources for families and providers.

OUR IMPACT

Every mission, every volunteer, and every surgery represents a child given a new opportunity to live a healthier and more confident life.

Through the dedication of our volunteers, partners, and supporters, Alliance for Smiles continues to expand access to cleft care and build sustainable medical partnerships in communities around the world.

7,648

Patients

9,525

Procedures

$37+

Millions
Value

900+

Volunteers

110

Surgical
Missions

Every smile we help create is made possible through the generosity of volunteers, donors, sponsors, and partners.

Whether you donate, volunteer your time, join a medical mission, or help raise awareness, your support directly impacts children and families around the world. Together, we can provide hope, healing, and life-changing care where it is needed most.

UPCOMING MISSIONS

Follow our upcoming missions and learn where Alliance for Smiles will be providing care next.

Date & Time:

July 16, 2026

Date & Time:

September 18, 2026 to September 28, 2026

Date & Time:

October 19, 2026 to October 30, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS

There are no upcoming events in this category right now. Check back soon!