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.

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

The post Providing Dental Hygiene Services in Underserved Communities first appeared on Global Dental Relief.

Volunteers Serving Children in Need Around the Globe

Dental Care for Kids
Since 2001

Children Served:
146,365

Donated Care:
$30.7 million

Volunteers:
2,358

Seventeen years ago we started this adventure in service–and today Global Dental Relief volunteers remain hard at work delivering critical dental care to children. In 2017, 20,904 children visited GDR clinics in five countries, receiving $4.3 million in donated care.
Our patients are the highlight of this work. We love their shy smiles, excited chattering, and trusting eyes as they reach for the hand of a volunteer. We dedicate this annual report to the children we serve and their beautiful smiles.

Each child we treat receives an average of $210 in direct dental care (US equivalent)

Download PDF of Progress Report March 2018

The post March 2018 Progress Report first appeared on Global Dental Relief.

In the fall of 2017, The Rotary Club of Southeast Denver partnered with Global Dental Relief to help sponsor two clinics in Kathmandu, Nepal. Through multi-club efforts, Rotarians contributed a generous donation of $19,500 to Global Dental Relief’s clinics in Nepal.

Local Denver Rotarians – Jan Lovelady and Aloah Kincaid – were able to attend the clinics in Kathmandu last fall. With open minds and willing spirits, the two traveled to half way around the world, to see their hard work in action. Jan had previously been to Nepal – five times in fact – but for Aloah this was her first time.

“Everything about it was impressive,” was Jan’s response when asked what she thought of the clinic set-up. “Coming from the US perspective, it was quite gratifying to see the impact and difference dental care makes in the lives of the Nepali people.”

During their time in Nepal, the two Denver Rotarians had the unique opportunity to work with a local affiliate, The Kantipur Rotary club. The Kantipur Rotary club provided translators to work in the clinic, teaching the children oral health education. They also organized and transported students to the clinic so they could receive dental care.

Thanks to the Rotary Southeast Club of Denver and to Rotarian, Jan Lovelady, this partnership provided dental care to 1,029 Nepali children. Their smiles say it all.

Through generous sponsorships, Global Dental Relief provides children, who otherwise would have no access to treatment, proper dental care and oral health education. Treatment for children who come into GDR clinics includes exams, restorative dental procedures, extractions and cleanings. Patients also receive a toothbrush, fluoride treatment and lessons in oral health education.

This year, Global Dental Relief will host 24 clinics across five countries and nine different clinic locations. Volunteer positions are still available on our 2018 clinics. Contact us today (volunteer@globaldentalrelief.org) to find out how you can be a part of our mission to bring free dental care to children in need around the world!

The post Denver Southeast Rotary Club Helps Children in Nepal first appeared on Global Dental Relief.

Global Dental Relief (GDR) partners with Cranberry USA, a dental supply company, to offer volunteer scholarship opportunities to pre-dental and pre-dental hygiene students. In 2017, Cranberry USA awarded five $1,000 scholarships to students who are passionate about bringing dental care to kids overseas.

Scholarship recipients attended clinics in Guatemala, Kenya, Nepal, and Cambodia. The awarded scholars were able to join Global Dental Relief as general volunteers and gain hands-on experience from seasoned dental professionals during their time abroad.

Abby Washam, 2017 Cranberry scholarship winner, working chairside in Kenya.

Scholarship winner, Rada-Mayya, attended a GDR clinic in Kathmandu, Nepal last year: “This trip changed my life. I learned by helping others in need my life has a true meaning. I have learned that dentistry will allow me to combine my scientific and technical expertise with my desire to treat the underserved, while constantly being challenged to improve myself professionally and personally … Without a doubt, I returned home with a broader perspective, and a new appreciation of cultural diversity.”

The Cranberry Volunteer Scholarship provides a unique opportunity for aspiring dental professionals to experience the world of dentistry firsthand. Volunteers spend six days working in the clinic performing a variety of different tasks. Recipients assist dentists and hygienists, teach oral health education, apply fluoride treatments, manage clinic flow and help keep records for each patient seen in our clinic.

2017 Cranberry Scholarship Winner, Rada-Mayya, pictured with children in Nepal during her time working at GDR’s clinic in Kathmandu.

Are you a pre-dental or pre-dental hygiene student with a passion for serving children in need? We invite you to gain first-hand experience by joining Global Dental Relief in our endeavor to bring free dental care to children overseas. By applying for the Cranberry Scholarship, you will have the chance to win a $1,000 scholarship towards a 2018 clinic in Kenya, Guatemala, Nepal, India or Cambodia.

If you are interested in this unique opportunity, please call us at 303.858.8857 or email volunteer@globaldentalrelief.org for more information.

The post CRANBERRY USA AND GLOBAL DENTAL RELIEF: A PARTNERSHIP EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION OF DENTAL PROFESSIONALS. first appeared on Global Dental Relief.

Global Dental Relief (GDR) is on a mission to provide dental care for those who need it most –children. Childhood is a time to learn, grow, and develop habits that will shape adult life; children who have access to quality dental care develop positive oral health habits that carry over into adulthood.

GDR focuses on dental care for children because:

1. Limited access to care

In many parts of the world, dentists are few and the costs of care often reach beyond the family’s financial abilities. Most children do not visit a dentist regularly, or even at all. For many GDR patients, it is the first time they have access to proper dental care and oral health education.

2. A healthy mouth leads to a healthy life

A child’s smile shares a close association with many other important functions in their body, and oral issues can deeply impact their quality of life. For example, if a child develops a minor cavity but is unable to visit a dentist, the cavity can grow to cause chronic pain which makes eating, sleeping concentrating in school and even speaking uncomfortable. Over time, a child may experience tooth loss and decreased self-esteem. GDR returns every two years to the communities they serve to ensure that children can receive dental care before dental issues inhibit their lives.

3. Educating smiles for a better future

Oral health education and proper dental treatment benefit a child for a lifetime. Dental exams, routine cleanings, fluoride treatments, and restorative dental treatment help provide long-lasting benefits for a child’s oral health. GDR brings dentists, hygienists and general volunteers together to positively impact the life of a child by providing the resources they need for lifelong dental health.

If you are interested in learning more about the mission of Global Dental Relief or would like to join us on one of our upcoming adventures, please feel free to contact us at volunteer@globaldentalrelief.org or 303.858.8857 today!

The post Why Dental Care for Kids? first appeared on Global Dental Relief.

Why volunteer in Cambodia? Here are our top five reasons!

Cambodia was once a quick stop-over on the South East Asia tourist circuit. People came to visit the 12th century Angkor Temple complex just outside of Siem Reap, and then quickly fled to other more comfortable tourist hangouts in Vietnam and Thailand. But today Siem Reap holds its own – at once an international scene and a place of enormous need, it is the perfect town to spend a few weeks volunteering and soaking up life, Cambodian style. There are endless reasons to volunteer in Cambodia, but here are the top five to make this your next adventure:

1.) The People

Cambodian people are gracious and kind. In spite of a dark past, a warm smile awaits visitors and especially those who come to do volunteer work. Cambodians are eager to get to know you, to share their life stories and to welcome you into their culture. They are generous people; you can’t help but feel a sense of connectedness when you are working side by side with our local partners in the clinic. Volunteers get a window into Cambodian life that regular tourists simply cannot access.

2.) Angkor Wat Temple Complex

The Angkor Wat Temple Complex, period. Need I say more? Built in the 12th century and then hidden by jungle for hundreds of years, the Angkor Temple Complex is something to behold. The iconic faces of Bayon and the elaborate red sandstone carvings of Banteay Srei offer a welcome break from daily volunteer work. Group Visiting the temples early in the morning or after the clinic ends in the afternoon, rounds out the perfect day. There is a steamy mysticism in this land of gods; one cannot help but be moved by the numinous essence these temples exude.

3.) The Khmer Children Need You

Although a quick scan of Siem Reap would lead one to believe that the Khmer people are flourishing economically, the sad truth is that the majority of economic resources are squandered by an elite few. There is little access to healthcare or dental care of any kind, except for those who are well off. Joining a volunteer dental clinic with Global Dental Relief means that you will be part of helping more than 600 Cambodian children to better health, in just a week. Without you, these children do not have access to dental care. They need you, so what are you waiting for?

4.) The Food

Siem Reap is a food lover’s paradise, with a lively and varied dining scene. There are endless food options. Try the traditional Fish Amok, or head to an international restaurant for a taste of Kangaroo. You really can’t go wrong in the food department. Street food is delicious and you always have the option of patronizing a restaurant “with a cause.” Several restaurants educate, train and employee former street children and sex workers. Not only are you giving back during the day, but even your meals can serve as a symbiotic function – nourishing you while helping others. Pretty cool, eh?

5.) The Volunteer Experience

And finally, the big secret that those who volunteer understand – you actually get more out of the experience than those you are helping. Yes, it’s true! Something about stepping outside of yourself and focusing wholeheartedly on another person is cathartic, fulfilling and gratifying in a way that escapes description. You have to do it to understand. Volunteers return over and over again, addicted to the positive vibes that are created when you are completely focused on helping others.

Cambodia is waiting for you! Make this your next adventure. To find out more about volunteer opportunities in Cambodia email volunteer@globaldentalrelief.org.

The post THE TOP 5 REASONS TO VOLUNTEER IN CAMBODIA! first appeared on Global Dental Relief.

As Cambodia’s most popular tourist destination, Siem Reap offers a fascinating blend of traditional and modern life. During your work with Global Dental Relief (GDR), you will have many opportunities to experience the unique splendor and culture of Cambodia.

During the time spent in Cambodia, volunteers stay at the Shinta Mani Resort, a boutique hotel that is run by the Shinta Mani Foundation (SMF). Founded to improve the economy and reduce poverty, this nonprofit organization provides free hospitality training to help underprivileged Khmer develop employment-ready skills and experience. The Shinta Mani Foundation improves the lives of villagers by installing wells, providing homes and offering employment opportunities. And now in partnership with GDR, SMF is extending dental care to village children.

A few of the many sites you will see on sightseeing days during your trip include:

• Angkor Wat: One of the largest religious monuments ever built, this temple complex is believed by many to be the Eighth Wonder of the World. The five towers stand as symbols of Mount Meru’s five peaks, and the moat represents the world’s oceans.

• Ta Prohm: Ta Prohm was built in 1186 and over the centuries has been engulfed by the jungle. While other temple structures of the Angkor complex have had their jungle overgrowth removed, Ta Prohm remains largely as it was when it was discovered by French explorers in the 19th century.

• Kampong Khleang: There are three main floating villages in Siem Reap; of them, Kampong Khleang offers the most authentic experience. The village is comprised of several dozen wooden structures–homes, schools, clinics–floating on the river. During the dry season, the village rests on Tonle Lap Lake but will move along the river according to the time of year.

• Cambodian People: One of the most rewarding aspects of volunteering overseas is the opportunity to connect with the local people and culture. Unlike a sightseeing tour, volunteering offers the chance to work side-by-side with the Khmer people and to learn about their way of life. Take the time to get to know your Khmer colleagues and to sit with the kids in the clinic. Our volunteers report that by far, the friendships they form with the local people is the most fulfilling part of the experience.

Learn more about exciting opportunities in Cambodia by reviewing the trip itinerary or contact our office today. We are excited to welcome you aboard our mission to provide much-needed dental care to the children of Siem Reap and offer you a life-changing experience.

The post 4 Reasons to Visit and Volunteer in Cambodia first appeared on Global Dental Relief.

Here are five ways to support GDR’s work without ever boarding a plane:

1.) Our clinics are held afloat by every single donation offered to our organization. In fact, every $20 donated provides one child the first dental care of their lives. GDR is able to leverage every dollar donated to maximize the amount of care we can provide in the field. Administration costs are less than 10% of our budget and our dedicated volunteers donate their time and talent, paying their own way to help kids in need. This means your donation goes directly to providing dental care to children.

2.) Do you have friends or family who are service-loving dental professionals or who would love our cause? You can shop at our Global Dental Relief store to find meaningful gifts for your loved ones. Whether it be a gift card, holiday card packs, a travel bag or a CD of lovely classical compositions, it will not only brighten the lives of those you care about, but every purchase helps children in need.

3.) If you are seeking to make an even greater difference in the lives of children around the world, you can become a sponsor. Our sponsors help us equip and operate clinics for thousands of children every year. You can sponsor dental care for all the children in a single school, in a clinic, in an entire country or even thousands of children in all five countries.

4.) At the end of our lives, we would all like to know that we have made an impact in the world. One way to do this is to leave what is called a charitable bequest in your will. To find out more, take a look at our Become a Legacy Partner webpage.

5.) And finally, if you happen to be a dental supplier, we are always in need of donated dental supplies to aid our clinics, whether it be toothbrushes, dental instruments, latex gloves, fluoride varnish, etc. For a full list of what we are looking for, check out our Donate Supplies page.

Thank you, from the children we serve, for your care and concern. Your generosity will help children around the world live happier, healthier lives. For more information on serving opportunities available, please email us at volunteer@globaldentalrelief.org.

The post Supporting the Children of GDR by Serving from Afar first appeared on Global Dental Relief.

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Student Growth Through Volunteering

Many of our volunteers are experienced dental professionals or established career professionals, but what about the great experience to be had by future dentists and global citizens? Volunteering with GDR is the perfect way to give back while learning about yourself and the dental profession.

Read more about Maya Patel’s story volunteering in Kenya.

JOIN US NEXT YEAR!

We set the date for next year’s event early, in hopes that our out of town GDR family can join in the festivities next year. Save September 19, 2018 – come to Colorado, see old friends, meet new ones and spend the evening helping children in need.   

Upcoming Clinics

Thanks to Trip Leader Andrea Swenson for hosting a terrific fundraiser at her home in California in late August.  If any of you have the time and interest to host either a volunteer party to recruit new folks to GDR or a fundraiser please let Kim know! They are easy and fun events to help us spread the word and we would love to join you for an event!

The post Global Dental Relief Fall 2017 Newsletter first appeared on Global Dental Relief.

1. Educational impact. We are able to educate and instill oral health awareness and habits in children before decay sets in. Each time a child enters a GDR clinic, they learn why to brush, how to brush and the effects that diet has on their teeth. They hear this message again and again. They then pass their knowledge to their parents, siblings and friends.

2. We start treating kids at age six before extensive dental decay has had time to develop in permanent teeth. By reaching kids young we can arrest decay when it first starts. Children are tracked by school and they return to GDR clinics every two years to receive long-term continuous care.

Over the course of 16 years, GDR volunteers have provided complete dental care to 135,000 children in five countries. The donated value of care exceeds 30 million. Each child receives an exam, a cleaning, and any fillings or extractions they may need. They receive a toothbrush and a fluoride varnish treatment.

Here’s a snapshot of a day in the life of the children at our clinic:

1. Children arrive in groups with other students from their school. First, they each receive brand new toothbrush. Some of these children have never seen a toothbrush before. Volunteers work with kids to teach them how to brush and about nutrition and the effects that sugar has on their teeth.

2. Once inside the clinic, each child receives a full exam

3. If a cavity or other dental issue is detected, dentists and hygienists offer treatment immediately. If further treatment is needed children return to the clinic two or three times over the course of the week until all care is completed.

4. Each child receives an application of fluoride varnish to help strengthen their tooth enamel.

The clinic is bustling with children and volunteers. There are glimpses of awe and trepidation, but what is remembered by all are the moments of connection as volunteers and children reach across cultures.

Time and again, we see this model work. Children return to our clinic with healthier teeth, and stronger oral hygiene habits. Good oral health leads to better overall physical health, and their newfound knowledge touches their families and friends.

Whether you are a dentist, hygienist, dental assistant, or a non-dental volunteer, the magic of this organization comes from your dedication to making a difference. Would you like to join us? email volunteer@globaldentalrelief.org, call us at 303.858.8857, or register by visiting our registry page.

The post The Global Dental Relief Model of Care first appeared on Global Dental Relief.