Global Dental Relief

Why Dental Care?

Many children around the world live without access to dental care, since local dentists are few and the cost of care is financially beyond reach. A child with a healthy mouth is more likely to have a healthy life. Without dental care, small cavities grow into serious decay and if untreated, becomes infected and inflamed.

This infection and chronic pain affect a child’s ability to sleep at night, eat properly, or focus in class. Over time, they lose their smiles, self-esteem and ability to thrive.

For many children, Global Dental Relief volunteers provide the first dental care and oral health education of their young lives.

At Global Dental Relief, our mission is to bring free dental care to children around the globe, in Nepal, Guatemala, Mexico, Kenya, and Cambodia. Teams of volunteer dentists, hygienists, assistants and general volunteers deliver treatment and preventive care in dental clinics that serve children in schools and remote villages.

Our Model of Care

GDR works with local schools to bring children to clinic class by class. Each child receives an exam, all necessary dental care, oral health instruction, a fluoride treatment and a new toothbrush. Once dental health is restored, children return to the clinic every two years to ensure a childhood of healthy smiles.

Global Dental Relief programs extend this reach by delivering toothbrushes and oral health education in schools between clinics and by providing critical nutrition to children in high-need situations.