Dental Student Mission Trips Abroad | A Broader View

Millions of people in the communities we serve have never seen a dentist. Public clinics are short of staff, equipment and supplies, and a toothache that would be a quick appointment at home can mean weeks of pain. A Broader View Volunteers places dental volunteers where that help makes a real difference, from pre-dental students taking their first steps to licensed dentists who want to give their skills a new purpose.

Who can join

• Pre-dental and high school students who want to explore a career in dentistry before applying to dental school.
• Dental and dental hygiene students currently enrolled in a program.
• Licensed dentists, hygienists and dental assistants, including recently retired professionals.
• Groups and brigades from universities or dental schools. See trips for groups.

What you will do

Your tasks depend on your training and on local rules, and you always work under the supervision of local dental staff.

• Students observe treatments, assist the dentist, prepare and sterilize instruments, and help run oral health education sessions in schools and communities.
• Licensed professionals can treat patients within the scope of their license and the host country's regulations, and share techniques with local teams.
• Everyone helps with prevention: brushing workshops, fluoride campaigns and screenings for children who rarely get a check-up.

Where you can volunteer

• Ecuador: Quito North Dental Program
• Honduras: Dental / Pre-Dental
• Nepal: Dental Hospital Kathmandu
• Nepal: Dental Student Internship in Kathmandu
• Costa Rica: Pre-Dental in Escazu
• Tanzania: Medical / Dental Healthcare
• Peru: Pre-Medical / Pre-Dental

You choose the country, your start date and how many weeks you stay. Browse every medical and dental program to compare.

Before you go

• Documents. Licensed volunteers send a copy of their license and diploma with the application. Some placements also ask for a background check.
• Donations. Clinics always need supplies. After you apply, your ABV account lists what your placement needs most, and you can bring gloves, masks, toothbrushes and other materials.
• Health. Check the vaccinations recommended for your destination and arrange travel and health insurance.
• Language. Spanish helps a lot in Latin America. You can add language lessons to your trip.

What is included

Every program includes accommodation with a host family or in a volunteer house, meals, airport pick-up, an orientation on arrival and a local coordinator available 24/7. See what's included and check the fees for your dates in the price calculator.

As a US registered non-profit, ABV program fees are tax deductible for US taxpayers, and you can open an online fundraising campaign to help cover your trip.

Questions about your level of experience or a specific clinic? Contact our team and we will help you find the right placement.