By: Paula Chebat, RDH
In July of 2024, Paula Chebat traveled to San Martin village in Guatemala with a crew of Global Dental Relief trip leaders and volunteers – including dentists, hygienists, assistants, students and general volunteers. Paula discovered GDR through an online search, looking to use her expertise as a dental hygienist to give back to underserved communities.
We hope you enjoy reading about her experience below! To learn more about our opportunities to volunteer abroad, contact GDR today.
- Describe your experience working in the clinic.
As a dental hygienist in the clinic, my role was to follow the scopes of practice outlined by the state of California, where I hold my license. Each day began with breakfast at a local restaurant run by Cristy, who coordinated our work with the school children. My schedule typically involved clinic hours from 8:30 to 12:30pm, followed by a lunch break at Cristy’s, and an afternoon session from 1-4pm.
After clinic hours, we would enjoy dinner at Cristy’s before heading back to the hotel to freshen up. Evenings were spent playing cards together until bedtime, fostering a sense of camaraderie among the team.
Some days, we explored the local market or took scenic truck rides around town, which added to the experience. The interactions with the students were the highlight of my work. Despite my limited Spanish, we connected through laughter and empathy. One child made me a bracelet with a tooth on it as a thank you, and I still wear it today. This gesture was a touching reminder of the impact we can have on the communities we serve.
- What was your biggest takeaway from volunteering with Global Dental Relief?
Volunteering with Global Dental Relief was a transformative experience, and my biggest takeaway was the profound impact of providing dental care in underserved communities. The opportunity to help children who otherwise would not have access to dental services highlighted the importance of oral health in overall well-being. Despite language barriers, I learned that empathy and kindness transcend words, allowing me to connect with patients on a personal level.
Working alongside dedicated professionals and local organizers taught me the value of teamwork and adaptability. Each day presented new challenges, from limited resources to navigating cultural differences, yet our collective commitment to making a difference kept us motivated. The gratitude and resilience of the children and their families were incredibly moving, and their appreciation reinforced my passion for dental care.
Additionally, the experience deepened my understanding of global health disparities and the crucial role of volunteer work in addressing these gaps. It reminded me that even small acts of service can create lasting change. This experience inspired me to continue seeking opportunities to volunteer and advocate for improved access to dental care worldwide.
- How did this opportunity impact you? How will this experience impact your dental hygiene career?
Volunteering with Global Dental Relief had a profound impact on me, both personally and professionally. This experience deepened my appreciation for the importance of dental care in local and global health and highlighted the disparities in access to such services. Witnessing firsthand the difference that dental care can make in underserved communities reinforced my commitment to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to all patients.
This opportunity also taught me invaluable lessons in adaptability and cultural sensitivity. Working in a different environment with limited resources required me to think creatively and develop efficient solutions. These skills will be crucial as I advance in my dental career, allowing me to better serve a diverse patient population and navigate various challenges with flexibility and empathy.
The experience also strengthened my communication skills, as I learned to connect with patients despite language barriers. Building rapport through empathy and nonverbal communication has enriched my approach to patient care and will continue to enhance my interactions in the dental field.
Overall, this volunteer work has inspired me to seek further opportunities for service and advocacy, aiming to make a meaningful impact on oral health disparities worldwide and ensure that all individuals have access to quality dental care.
