Are you in high school and thinking about pursuing a career in dentistry but unsure where to start? Dental care abroad programs offered through Smiles Movement offer hands-on learning opportunities, exposure to real dental practices, and the chance to make a difference in underserved communities. Here’s how volunteering abroad can help you kickstart your dental career and provide you with valuable insights into what it’s like to be a dentist.

Real-World Experience You Can’t Get in a Classroom

As a high school student, you may not yet have the technical knowledge of dental procedures, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get valuable exposure. When you participate in a dental volunteer abroad program, you’ll have the chance to observe dental professionals in action, assist with tasks like patient intake, and learn about patient care from a hands-on perspective.

One of Smiles Movement’s volunteers, Clara, shared thoughts on her experience saying:

“We filled some cavities, we extracted some teeth, and that is a really hands-on experience for me, which is why I think it’s my favorite station.”

Exposure to Different Aspects of Dentistry

When volunteering with Smiles Movement, you will get a broad view of the field of dentistry. You won’t just be learning about dental procedures, you’ll also be introduced to the healthcare challenges faced by underserved communities. You'll observe the social and environmental factors affecting access to care, and see firsthand how oral health impacts overall well-being.

Zoe, another volunteer, shares:

“Through this exposure, I gained not only technical insight but also cultural awareness, empathy for patients, and a recognition of how access to dental care impacts overall health.”

Learn from Experienced Professionals

Smiles Movement volunteer trips give high school students the opportunity to learn from licensed dental professionals. Volunteers have the chance to shadow these professionals, assist them during dental procedures, and support patient intake and care. This experience gives students a realistic look at what working as a dentist entails. It also allows you to interact with professionals in the field who can answer your questions and give advice about what it takes to succeed in dentistry.

Make a Positive Impact While Gaining Experience

Aside from gaining technical skills, volunteering with dental care abroad programs allows you to give back to communities in need. By assisting in mobile dental clinics and participating in health education workshops, you’re making a meaningful impact on individuals who might not otherwise have access to dental care and education. This experience will not only shape your perspective on healthcare but also help you develop strong interpersonal skills, which are crucial in any healthcare profession.

A Step Toward Your Dental Career

By participating in dental care abroad programs, you’ll gain experience that will help you build your resume, prepare for college, and begin your journey toward becoming a dentist. Volunteering abroad gives you the opportunity to stand out on college applications and shows a commitment to service and social impact that is highly valued by admissions committees.

If you're interested in helping provide dental care abroad, volunteering with Smiles Movement is a great way to get started. 

If you’re interested in exploring dental volunteer opportunities and want to learn more about upcoming volunteer trips, download our brochure here!