DENTAL CARE IN AN EXTENSIVE PROJECT IN THE FORM OF VOLUNTEERING ABROAD: EXPERIENCE REPORT

• DOI: 10.22533/at.ed.15927422241110

• Palavras-chave: Volunteering; Dental care; Comprehensive Health; needy population; Health Promotion; Africa.

• Keywords: Volunteering; Dental care; Comprehensive Health; needy population; Health Promotion; Africa.

• Abstract:

  The consolidation and strengthening of the relationship between dentists and the community brings benefits to both those involved, both for the more humane training of professionals and for society in general, which is so lacking in dental care. It is noted that health care in underdeveloped countries is a reality far from what could be called ideal. However, despite the limitations, quality activities can be carried out that contribute to the quality of life of those involved, considering that the focus is on health promotion and prevention of diseases and injuries. Therefore, the article emphasizes the importance of professional experience in dentistry in extramural activities and voluntary work experiences for the acquisition of important knowledge and skills, showing the benefits generated for both participants. This is a descriptive study of the experience report type, composed of information acquired by the experience in assistance in humanitarian aid to needy children, in Kenya North Africa in the years 2013 to 2014. It is noteworthy that the current job market requires a professional with knowledge of both the technique and the sociocultural characteristics of the community in the development of their dental practice, since the human being needs to be understood in its biopsychosocial aspects to be treated in an integral way.