Behind every skilled and successful dentist, is always a history of on-the-job training in the field. Volunteering your skills, time, efforts, and services for the well-being of others is one way of sustaining enthusiasm and gaining expertise in your career.
With dentistry programs available, you can begin a journey to professionalism by volunteering abroad to give back to developing countries. In addition, while engaging in cross-cultural exchanges of knowledge with other colleagues and professionals in the field, you will also gain invaluable dental experience to back you up career-wise.
Many oral diseases and conditions have been linked to a lack of access to oral healthcare and education, especially in underdeveloped and developing countries.
Dentistry volunteering programs abroad serve as the only hope for ameliorating this impending problem. Providing service to the community voluntarily offers an opportunity to improve the standard of living/life expectancy of individual members of the community and the sense of individuality of the volunteer.
In this piece, you will get a comprehensive overview of different dentistry volunteering programs abroad. Points, tips, and advice will also be given to direct you towards the top 13 dentistry volunteering programs.
Check the table of content below for the dentistry volunteering programs.
Table of contents
- Why dentistry Volunteering Program?
- Who can become a dental volunteer abroad?
- How can a dentist volunteer abroad?
- Which country is best for Dental Volunteer Program Abroad?
- How many volunteers’ hours are needed for dental school?
- How can one find dentistry volunteering programs abroad?
- #1. Dentist Volunteer program in Peru – Cusco
- #2. Dentist Volunteer program in India – Delhi
- #3. Medical, Nursing, and Dentistry Program in Galle, Sri Lanka
- #4. Dental Volunteer Program in La Ceiba, Honduras
- #5. Dentist Volunteer program in Mandeville, Jamaica
- #6. Ghana Dentistry Internship Program
- #7. Dentist Volunteer Program in Tanzania
- #8. Dentist Volunteer program in Kerala
- #9. Dentist Volunteer program in Guatemala
- 10. Dominica dentistry program
- 11. Moshi, Tanzania Dentistry Program
- #12. International Napoli network-Italy
- #13. Dentist Volunteer program in Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Conclusion
- References:
- Recommendation
Why dentistry Volunteering Program?
The experience they say is the best teacher at any time.
Most times paper-pen teachings have just an extent it can ever go on a learner, but on the line/field experience makeup teachers instead of learners.
Volunteering abroad as a dentist whether as a practicing student or a professional, offers different opportunities. Leaving the shores of one’s country to a different environment with different cultures and ways/styles of life is already educative.
Furthermore, dentistry volunteering programs abroad present an opportunity to gain first-hand experience and necessary intricacies in an international context.
In addition, the program gives the opportunity to volunteer across a range of healthcare settings, facilitating higher exploration and a pathway to deeper insight into your profession.
Finally, as an international volunteer, your impact goes beyond merely a visible contribution to mankind to a personal feeling of fulfillment. An avenue to learn from others’ points of view.
Who can become a dental volunteer abroad?
Dental volunteering programs abroad have an enormous range of work, duties, and activities.
These duties and activities include preventive dental care, dental health education, pediatric oral procedures, dental health screenings, tooth extractions, maintenance of dental equipment’s specialized oral health practices and among others.
As such, dental volunteers abroad are often established dentists, dental hygienists, pre-dental students, and even dental internship students in high school. But sometimes it is not always the case.
Some volunteering programs have room for other interested people driven by a passion to serve humanity. After all, it doesn’t require many skills to educate someone on dental hygiene and the proper use of tooth cleaners and brushes.
Thus both skilled and unskilled volunteers can work together to achieve the overall goal of selfless service to humanity. All that is required is to be hard-working and perhaps enthusiastic about the duties. So the hallmark here is that there is virtually opportunity for all in as much as you are driven to absorb more knowledge and render services needed.
Worth noting, most volunteering programs abroad have guidelines necessary for both skilled and unskilled volunteers.
The guidelines of dentistry programs abroad however follow the American Dental association’s ethics. More so, these guidelines not only establish professional underpinnings for international volunteer work but also help volunteers build on what will be required of them in a dental volunteer abroad project.
Read: 20 Best Volunteering Week Activity Ideas In 2024
How can a dentist volunteer abroad?
Just before this, as an aspiring dentistry volunteer you should note the following:
- Being unprepared and untrained volunteers can sometimes negatively impact the goals of the program. Thus preliminary training which starts from a willingness to obey authority is unavoidable.
- Nefarious people who through scam volunteer abroad placement is inevitable. That is why it is advisable to do your due diligence, and only join programs with reputable volunteer abroad organizations which will be outlined in this article.
- As a volunteer, regardless of whether skilled or unskilled, the welfare of the patient should be the first thing in mind before even having the intention to be a volunteer. The opportunity to change the environment thus other gains and experiences should be secondary. Your primary assignment is to the local community.
- So working as a dentistry volunteer abroad is tasking, but trust me, it’s worthwhile.
Let’s now take careful steps on how to begin and offer guides on how to become a volunteer dentist.
TIPS
- Be sure to apply early
- Ask for letters of evaluation early
- Get some capital for applying, interviews, and other fees needed
- Get in touch with your health professions advisor as early as possible
- Endeavor to read through all the applicable prerequisites before beginning the process
- Make your personal statement novel and avoid word salad
- Proofread your application
- Research about the program and each dental school’s requirements. Check for supplemental materials if available
- Keep your application data in a folder or document to avoid mix up
- Make sure your social media platforms are devoid of distraction. Keep it professional, it all a lot to speak about you. Block unnecessary tagging.
STEPS
- Browse for dental volunteer opportunities (this article will give you some).
- Choose a destination and the project you wish to volunteer on, as well as the dates you wish to volunteer.
- Complete the free online application form with the details of your chosen program and dates. Within 48 hours (2 working days), you will receive an email from your organization’s Program Manager acknowledging your application and confirming the country, project, and dates of your volunteer program. In this email, you will receive instructions.
- Log in to your organization account to pay your Registration Fee. As soon as your Registration Fee has been received, you will be provided with all the information and support you need to prepare for your upcoming volunteer program.
Note: Every program is headed under an organization that provides access to registration although some attract a fee.
Which country is best for Dental Volunteer Program Abroad?
Volunteering programs cut across many countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin American continents. However, with regards to transparency, affordability, and durability, countries like America, South Africa, Kenya, India, Tanzania, and among others rank best for dental volunteer programs.
How many volunteers’ hours are needed for dental school?
Volunteers programs abroad can span through a duration of 1 week to 24 weeks. Nevertheless, volunteer hours depend more on the qualification. Dentist working hour differs from the dental student, or pre-dental students volunteer hours.
Every program has its ways of operation including hours of operation. However, the volunteer hours needed for dental school cannot exceed the bearable limit.
How can one find dentistry volunteering programs abroad?
Finding dentistry volunteering programs abroad is quite easy. I mean that’s why you are reading this article at first. You are definitely on the right track. Keep reading to the end and find a dentistry volunteering program of your choice abroad.
Are you ready to find a suitable dentistry volunteering program abroad?
Perhaps after reading to this stage, a full picture of what’s expected has been captured. Let’s now take up the top 13 dentistry volunteering programs abroad.
For each program, basic information about the organization will be considered. Specific dental volunteer projects, what makes the project thrive, and tips about opportunities embedded in each project will also be outlined in this article. Thus endeavor to read every bit and taking note of necessary procedures.
#1. Dentist Volunteer program in Peru – Cusco
Program Description:
Dental clinics and hospitals for low-income families in Cusco are typically under-funded and understaffed. This has led to volunteers playing an important role in assisting local dentists while also learning about the healthcare system in Cusco.
Program details:
Peru is the 19th largest country in the world and the third-largest in South America. Volunteering for a dentistry program in Peru comes with not only the excitement of getting to work with experts but also recreational jollification. However, the Program duration spans through a duration of 1 to 24 weeks with program fees from $295.
Who should volunteer?
The program is open for Pre-dental students, dental students, qualified dentists, and dental hygienists. It is mandatory to have intermediate Spanish language skills and be enrolled in a university program in the medical, healthcare, or dental field, or be a licensed medical professional. In addition, volunteers must be above 16years of age and possess necessary documents like criminal background checks and home country’s police report.
Volunteers Activities:
- Assisting alongside a medical professional and observe the local medical practices.
- Consultations
- Health education
- Administrative assistance.
#2. Dentist Volunteer program in India – Delhi
Program Description
Delhi provides opportunities for both dental students, and qualified professionals to gain first-hand insight into the medical systems in one of the world’s fast-growing countries.
Program Details:
Volunteers work directly in the hospitals and a mobile clinic in Delhi. Also, volunteer for 1 to 24 weeks, programs start on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month. Program fees: From $250USD which includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals, and 24/7 in-country support.
Who can apply?
Pre-dental students, dental students, qualified dentists, and dental hygienists.
Volunteer Activities:
- Shadow experienced professionals who are enthusiastic about exchanging their knowledge and experience with international volunteers.
- Longer-term volunteers (staying 3 months or more) will have more scope to assist with hands-on tasks.
- Observe and assist dental professionals at local hospitals
- Carry out free dental camps in a slum community.
Also read: Ultimate Guide To Volunteering Abroad Under 18 In 2024
#3. Medical, Nursing, and Dentistry Program in Galle, Sri Lanka
Program description:
Volunteering to the tropical coast of southern Sri Lanka, help improve the dental health and overall well-being of the local community. You’ll gain international experience in dentistry, enhance your resume/CV, and get to observe general and cosmetic procedures. Dental volunteers are placed in specific units, such as orthodontics or restorative dental.
Program details:
The program is located near Galle, a serene area in southern Sri Lanka. With a duration between 2 and 12 weeks, volunteers can take the service to humanity to another level of fulfillment. It has a fee of $1,180 for two weeks. During off-hours, volunteers can do yoga, relax on the beach, and check out the wonderful architecture in Galle. Sound good?
Who can volunteer?
Are you a pre-dental student or a medical student? Then go for this. But note that volunteers should be a minimum of 18 years. And have a basic level of English. Other documents include an updated CV and Police clearance. Bottom line, dental volunteers must be enrolled in dentistry school (first-year students are welcome).
Volunteer Activities:
- Carry out regular check-ups for a professional evaluation
- Providing oral health services and supports
- Educating the community and disadvantaged people on oral hygiene
- Assisting in dental treatments and operations
#4. Dental Volunteer Program in La Ceiba, Honduras
Program description:
Looking for a beautiful Caribbean port city with waters that are part of a vast barrier reef, then serve as a dental volunteer in La Ceiba, Honduras. There, you’ll get to work as part of an oral health hospital staff and assist with procedures such as extractions, endodontic, and root canals.
Program Details:
This program spans a duration of 1 to 12 weeks with a fee of $895 for a week. This important program was established with the vision of making a real difference in the lives of La Ceiban through dental services. Although it’s unfortunate that their health system is one of the poorest in America, with dental services rendered the situation can change.
Who can volunteer?
Volunteers must be currently enrolled in a dental course at an accredited university. Pre-dental students or other volunteers are welcome to apply, but will only be allowed to observe and support dental professionals away from the procedure room. Also, for you to join this program, you need to be at least 18 years old.
Volunteer Activities:
- Observing, and assisting the dentist
- Carry out regular check-ups for a professional evaluation
- Providing oral health services and supports
- Assisting in dental treatments and operations
- Carry out dental examinations and diagnosis
#5. Dentist Volunteer program in Mandeville, Jamaica
Program description:
As a volunteer, you can improve the dental health needs of the people of Jamaica. The program puts dentistry care into underdeveloped communities to combat health issues especially with regards to dental health. Besides that, Jamaica is an amazing place to volunteer. This will open volunteers to the culture and way of life of the Caribbean.
Program Details:
With the excessive pressure on the medical system of Jamaica, volunteers are highly anticipated to offer dental services to the common people. Volunteers on this program provide supports to the medical staff in order to meet up to daily schedule. Registration takes between 4 and 12 weeks fees ranging from $1,738 up depending on the duration.
Who should apply?
A pre-dental student who is above 18 years as at the time of application.
Volunteers Activities:
- Assist dentistry staff in the treatment of patients
- Assist with organizing and implementing dental health campaign programs
- Interact with patients and provide support
- Assists in other administrative duties.
#6. Ghana Dentistry Internship Program
Program Description:
This is a dentistry volunteering program in Ghana. A placement in a small clinic in semi-rural Akuapim-togo Mountains. Perhaps you are a student looking for dentistry work experience in another country. Then this is for you.
Program Details:
The internship is open throughout the year, so volunteers can arrive at any time of their choice. It has a duration of 2-24 weeks. The fee range from $700 to $4000 depending on duration, but cheaper in groups. You can join for two weeks or more depending on the level of knowledge you want to gain. By way of location, the program is in Ghana.
Who can volunteer?
This program is especially suitable for pre-dental students above 16 years. The marital status is not necessarily a case, thus whether single or married the program can accommodate. Nevertheless, even if you are not a dental student but intend a career in this direction, you can also apply. The program is also open for university medical and even healthcare elective students.
As a student, this is a great opportunity to learn about dentistry in a developing country. It will also offer the opportunity to add practical work experience to your portfolio.
Duty/Activities.
Volunteering for this program offers you the opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge and experience. You will
- Assist local dentists as they complete their day-day tasks in local hospitals.
- Assist with preparation of patients and equipment’s
- Perform basic dental checks under supervision by superiors
- Conduct oral hygiene presentations, like how to brush, in the community.
- Educate the schools and disadvantaged children on the proper use of toothbrushes.
#7. Dentist Volunteer Program in Tanzania
Program Description:
Work at a government hospital in Tengeru, a town right next to Arusha offering 24/7 facility treatments to 50-80 patients per day. For this program, It’s entirely up to you to choose another department if you are not cool with the dental department. Nevertheless, the dental ward would be an excellent choice.
Program details:
Furthermore, the program is available all through the year and it runs from 2 weeks minimum stay to 12 weeks maximum. Also, the fee ranges from $575 depending on the duration. Meanwhile, the program is in Arusha, Tanzania.
Tanzania as a country harbors some of the most incredible nature scenes in the world. Beginning from the famous beaches, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, safaris to lots more. This means your volunteering program will not just be work-filled but also fun-full.
Who can volunteer?
Trained and qualified dentist with at least two years’ experience seeking more experience. Dentists who want to change the environment and work in a place with a different culture. Meanwhile, it should be noted that this program is more suitable for skilled professionals in the field.
Furthermore, it should be noted that the program is for those who are 18 years and above. Basic requirements include the ability to speak English, police statement, dentistry degree or another relevant degree, maxillofacial, Cv, and another relevant certificate.
Volunteer Activities:
- working with other local dentists to support children and adults during the basic and complex procedure
- Volunteers also work at an outpatient clinic for mothers and babies.
- Works as helping hands throughout all working days from morning to evening.
#8. Dentist Volunteer program in Kerala
Program description:
Kerela is based in the tropical south Indian city of Kochi. Dentistry programs in Kerela is not far beyond local clinics in the environs. In addition, the program encompasses other outdoor activities alongside leading general practice and cosmetic dentists, and occasionally dental check-ups in schools
Program Details:
Community development, youth education, health education describes the project types offered by volunteers. The program duration spans 1 to 12 weeks with fees ranging from $360 medical surcharge per week for supervision, materials, and the logistics involved in this project. Fees cover airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals, and 24/7 in-country support.
Who can volunteer?
This program is strictly for qualified and skilled dentists above age 18. Most preferably dental students who want to gain more on the field training and learning. All volunteers are required to have necessary documents, like volunteer insurance, police clearance, and an updated resume.
Volunteer Activities:
- Work under the guidance and mentorship of leading dental professionals.
- Support large-scale dental check-ups within the local community.
- Diagnose and treat dental issues
#9. Dentist Volunteer program in Guatemala
Program Description:
Guatemala is a country in Central America. The dentistry program in Guatemala offers a wide range of dental services to the local people and the elderly.
Program Details:
Volunteers directly work in local clinics and elderly homes. Program duration spans between 1 to 24 weeks, programs start every Monday. Program fees go from $299 for a week. Fees cover airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals, and 24/7 in-country support.
Who can volunteer?
Pre-dental students, dental students, and qualified dentists and dental hygienists. Volunteers must also be above 18year as at the time of application. Nevertheless, assigned tasks and the level of independence a volunteer depends on their qualifications, experience, and Spanish language skills.
Volunteer Activities:
- Work with local professionals in small local clinics
- Provides check-ups and basic care within low-income communities.
- Diagnose and offer dental counseling.
10. Dominica dentistry program
Program Description:
The program offers hands-on dentistry work experience under Fundacion Aldeas de Paz at dental clinics in Dominica. The program offers dentistry observation and dentistry work experience opportunities. The level of involvement of a volunteer depends on professionalism and Spanish language proficiency and a willingness to work.
Program Details:
The Aldeas de Paz Foundation is headquartered in Samana, in the North-East of Dominica. This program can be booked as a volunteer placement or as an internship. Volunteers are free to commit between 12 – 40 hours per week. Nevertheless, as an intern, fulfilling the requirements set by the program is necessary.
Who can volunteer?
Pre-dental students, dental students, and qualified dentists, and dental hygienists. Volunteers must know and understand the English language and a bit of basic Spanish like the greetings. Also, the volunteer must not be lesser than 16years and must be enthusiastic, willing to learn, and ready for a challenge.
Volunteer Activities:
Volunteers have a wide range of duties and activities including:
- Educating the community and disadvantaged people on oral hygiene
- Observing and assisting the dentist
- Carry out regular check-ups for a professional evaluation
- Providing oral health services and supports
- Assisting in dental treatments and operations
- Carry out dental examinations and diagnosis.
11. Moshi, Tanzania Dentistry Program
Program description:
Yaapha is a nonprofit organization seeking for dental volunteers to offer dental care to the children at their centers in Moshi, Urambo, Shinyanga, and Kigoma. Yaapha provides children, teens, early adolescents,s and the aged from more interior parts of Tanzania.
Who should volunteer?
Pre dental students, dental students above 18 years of age, qualified dentists, and dental hygienists. Worth noting, volunteers must be proficient in English and obtain necessary documents like police clearance.
Also read:10 Best Child Volunteering Opportunities Abroad In 2024
Volunteer activities:
Volunteers get to provide the following activities under supervision:
- Dental Check-Ups
- Awareness Campaign
- Community dental care
- Proper nutrition
#12. International Napoli network-Italy
Program description:
International Napoli Network (INN) partners with local public schools and other foundations to provide resources to support the health and welfare of the member community.
Program Details:
This Italy-based program is available throughout the year except for the month of August. Furthermore, it runs from 4 weeks’ minimum stay to 24 weeks maximum. Also, the fee starts from $965 depending on the duration.
Who can volunteer?
Are you a dentistry student, pre-medicine, and health student at the university level? Then this is an opportunity for you. Nevertheless, you must be 18years and above on the program start. Volunteers must be proficient in the English language and provide criminal record background checks.
Volunteer Activities:
- Dental Check-Ups
- Awareness Campaign
- Community dental care
- Services to children
- Dental counsel for the elderly
Read: WHY IS VOLUNTEERING IMPORTANT? 10 BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING ABROAD
#13. Dentist Volunteer program in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Program Description:
Are you in search of an even more thrilling environment with a beautiful landscape? Then try this one. Through this medical internship in Chiang Mai, Thailand, you’ll get to work in a private or public full-service hospital under the supervision of a local medical professional.
Learning a great deal about Thailand’s healthcare system is a guarantee. Through shadowing and learning from highly-trained physicians, dentists, and others. Also worth noting is that Chiang Mai, a city in mountainous northern Thailand, amazes at every turn. That’s enough grooving on work-free days.
Program Details:
This program runs between 2 to 12 weeks and depends on the extent you want to volunteer. The feefrom$939 for two weeks.
Who can volunteer?
Pre-dental students, dental students, and qualified dentists and dental hygienists
Volunteer’s activities:
- Educating the community and disadvantaged people on oral hygiene
- Observing, and assisting the dentist
- Carry out regular check-ups for a professional evaluation
- Providing oral health services and supports
- Assisting in dental treatments and operations
Conclusion
Attaining a higher level of expertise in any field is not a function of knowledge gained within the confines of a room.
It is rather; the experience gathered during on-the-job training. Most times all you need is just experience and you will become more likely a teacher than a learner. First-hand information especially the ones gathered at the course of work not only boosts your CV and portfolio but also your mental acumen.
Get out of your shell, go out there and get mastery experience and breathe fresh air.
We hope you enjoyed reading the Dentistry Volunteering Programs Abroad?
References:
- https://www.volunteerworld.com/en
- https://www.volunteerhq.org/blog
- www.volunteerforever.com/article_post/
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