Updated for 2025 – now includes information on dental internships abroad!
Calling all dentists, dental hygienists, or students aspiring to work in the dental health field who are interested in dental volunteer abroad and dental elective projects!
In some countries, a lack of access to oral healthcare and education puts children and adults at risk of developing serious medical problems. According to a World Health Organization report, oral diseases and conditions affect 3.58 billion people worldwide. As dental health is one of the most underserved healthcare fields, there are dental volunteer projects around the globe that need your expertise.
If you have a passion for helping others, why not put your dental skills and passion for dentistry to good use? Many great projects are mobilizing skilled volunteers like yourself to maintain smiles and promote good oral health.
In this article, we’ll give a comprehensive snapshot of what overseas dental volunteering abroad is like and give you advice from fellow volunteers. We’ll also point you towards reputable, high-quality dental volunteer projects and super affordable dentistry elective projects, such as those offered by International Volunteer HQ (over 145,000 volunteers to date!), Volunteering Solutions, and GoEco.
We’ll also highlight awesome intern abroad projects such as Intern Abroad HQ’s dentistry intern program, Maximo Nivel’s dental internship abroad programs in Latin America, and Projects Abroad’s six dental internships around the world!
Dental Volunteering and Interning Abroad
Dental volunteering and interning abroad encompasses a broad range of work and activities. Dental health volunteer experiences could vary based on location, the needs of the local population, the specific mission of the volunteer abroad project/internship, and the skills that you bring to the table.
Typical activities include:
- Preventative dental care
- Dental health education (brushing and flossing techniques, etc.)
- Common pediatric oral care procedures
- Dental health screenings
- Extractions
- Root canals and scaling
- Support to dental hygienists
- Maintenance of dental equipment
- Other support roles associated with running a mobile dental clinic
- Specialized oral health practices such as maxillofacial or orthodontics
Consider your preferences for location and project type, as well as your own expertise level. Know many programs can customize the program to fit your education and experience.
For instance, Projects Abroad’s dental volunteering program in Cordoba, Argentina, will arrange your daily work based on your skills and qualifications (though do note that intermediate Spanish is a requirement). It’s a great option for both pre-dental students and professional dentists. Those who’ve completed one year of dental school mostly observe and assist as needed. Those with two or more years of dental schooling and/or practical experience can perform hands-on dental care (at the discretion of the local professionals).
On the other hand, Projects Abroad’s dentistry internship in Mexico suits dental students but is mostly an observational role. It’s a great learning experience and will enhance your resume. The project is just designed for those not yet ready to perform more serious dental care.
Who can Serve as a Dental Health Volunteer or Intern?
Obviously, dental volunteer abroad projects suit established dentists and dental hygienists. But you don’t have to be an oral health professional to volunteer for dental care abroad.
Most organizations, such as affordably-priced Maximo Nivel (top-ranked on Volunteer Forever), accept pre-dental students as well as other volunteers who are able to donate their time, passion for helping others, and skills to a good cause. After all, maintaining a dental clinic requires more than a dental surgery team. Unskilled volunteers and volunteers coming from another occupation can serve in important support roles—and have a big impact if they’re enthusiastic and hard-working.
As example, check out who all Projects Abroad’s dental volunteer abroad projects are open to:
We offer a range of dental programs, including:
- Dental internships for high school students
- Internships for pre-dental students
- Dental internships for college students
- Dentistry volunteer opportunities for professionals
No matter which dental internship you choose, we can tailor the experience to fit your level. You can also trust in the Projects Abroad guarantee: that all of our programs are safe, flexible, and hassle-free. Once you arrive in-country, all you need to worry about is the wealth of knowledge there is for you to absorb!
However, there are some guidelines that dental students and other responsible volunteers should uphold when volunteering for oral health, such as these guidelines (PDF Download) recommended by the American Dental Education Association (ADEA). These guidelines not only establish professional standards for international volunteer work but also help volunteers build expectations of what they’ll reasonably be asked to do in a dental volunteer abroad project.
A few things to point out:
- You and your volunteer abroad organization may have noble intentions. However, underprepared and untrained dental volunteers can have a negative impact on local communities. This negative impact could include harm to the patients and legal issues with local authorities.
- Scam volunteer abroad placement organizations do exist. ADEA warns dental and pre-dental students that being involved with shady international dental work could damage the student’s future acceptance into dental schools. Do your due diligence, and only join programs with reputable volunteer abroad organizations (like those mentioned in this article).
- Pre-dental students and other non-qualified volunteers should only accept clinical experiences in which they are asked to observe and support outside of the operating room, not assist with procedures. Pre-dental students should also look for programs that cater specifically to students. These programs feature more appropriate tasks for students and the organizations that run them have more experience with the educational facet of volunteering abroad. Additionally, some may have the proper qualifications and agreements with universities to exchange college credit for your volunteer time.
- All volunteers, regardless of skill level, should prioritize the welfare of the patient—not their own opportunity to gain experience or what they think may help the patient. Leave any decision-making to the professionals in charge. Sometimes volunteering abroad isn’t as hands-on as many volunteers imagine. But their work still greatly benefits the local community.
As you can see, volunteering abroad for dentistry is highly sophisticated. In many cases, projects work in conjunction with professional organizations and dental associations based locally. This ensures international dental projects are held to the highest standards for medical and dental care.
Ready to Volunteer or Intern Abroad for Dental Care?
Now that you’re all on board to volunteer / intern and understand what to expect, let’s discuss the programs. The projects listed here come highly recommended by our volunteers and interns, are committed to making the world a better place, and provide dental volunteers/interns with meaningful experiences.
For each organization, we’ll give you a basic breakdown of the organization itself, a look into specific dental volunteer projects and internships, and a few attributes that make each project shine. Keep reading to find the perfect dental volunteer abroad project/internship for you! Lastly, be sure to read through the whole article as we share travel scholarship opportunities and tips to fund your trip at the end!
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Founded in 2007, International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) provides more than 300 high-quality projects across 40+ destinations.
They partner with local NGOs to offer programs for skilled individuals to volunteer anywhere from one week to six months. In their 16 years, they’ve sent nearly 130,000 volunteers abroad.
With program fees starting from $20 a day, IVHQ is a trusted, low-cost organization to volunteer with. They thoroughly prepare volunteers through email and phone correspondence and free, online pre-departure training. IVHQ partners also provide orientation and training sessions, as well as 24/7 support, upon arrival at your destination.
Check out some of IVHQ’s international dental volunteering opportunities below:
Looking for hands-on experience as a dental student? Join other dental volunteers in Kerala, India, and work alongside general practice and cosmetic dentists. As a volunteer with IVHQ, you’ll work at a state-of-the-art local clinic and within local schools for dental check-ups. All work will be done under the guidance of trained local and international dental professionals. You’ll gain experience as a dental student as you support developing communities and improve the oral health of children and adults. Note your level of participation depends on your experience and qualifications.
When you’re not working on teeth, travel around Kerala, a state with majestic beaches and serene tea plantations. Learn more on IVHQ’s site!
Get a deeper understanding of a dental career, as well as hands-on experience working as a dental volunteer with IVHQ in Guatemala. For this project, volunteers do need to be in a dental school, a certified dental hygienist, or a dentist. You’ll work alongside local dental hygienists and dentists at local clinics or health clinics. Duties vary based on experience, qualifications, and Spanish level but may include assisting with teeth cleaning, dental checkups, promoting dental hygiene, and administrative tasks.
By providing basic dental care to low-income and rural communities in Guatemala, you can make a difference (and learn a lot about the country). Already packing your bags? Register here first!
This initiative invites dental students, hygienists, and professionals to collaborate with local experts in underfunded clinics, delivering essential dental care to underserved communities. Your contributions may encompass assisting with teeth cleaning, conducting dental checkups, educating patients on oral hygiene, and supporting administrative tasks. Beyond professional development, immerse yourself in Peru’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes, including the iconic Machu Picchu. Ready to make a meaningful impact while expanding your horizons? Secure your spot today!
This program is perfect for dental students, hygienists, and professionals eager to collaborate with local experts in underfunded clinics, providing essential dental care to underserved communities. Your contributions may include shadowing dentists, assisting with teeth cleaning, preparing materials, educating patients on oral hygiene, and supporting administrative tasks. Beyond professional development, immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. Find out more here!
Intern Abroad HQ offers a variety of dental internships across the globe, providing aspiring dentists with hands-on experience and cultural immersion.
These internships are designed to enhance clinical skills, cultural competence, and global awareness, preparing participants for successful careers in dentistry.
- In Cusco, Peru, interns assist local dentists in school-based clinics, conducting general check-ups for students aged 3 to 20. Responsibilities include preparing materials, assisting with surgeries, and organizing oral hygiene educational campaigns.
- In Athens, Greece, participants join private dental clinics, observing and assisting with procedures such as cleanings, fillings, and extractions. Interns also engage in patient consultations and learn about dental practices in a European context.
- The Arusha, Tanzania program places interns in local hospitals and clinics, where they support dental professionals in providing care to underserved communities. Tasks may involve assisting with examinations, and treatments, and promoting oral health education.
- In Zanzibar, interns work alongside experienced dentists in clinics, gaining exposure to a range of dental procedures and contributing to community outreach programs focused on oral hygiene awareness.
A top-rated volunteer abroad organization, GoEco has more than 150 initiatives around the globe. Founded by experienced volunteers in 2006, GoEco’s programs have been carefully crafted to ensure volunteers get the desired experience and the communities benefit as much as possible.
They’re also affordable. With GoEco’s 3rd Week Free Grant, enjoy the benefits of a third week free of charge when you sign up for two weeks or more on selected projects.
If you’re looking for dental volunteer abroad programs, GoEco has projects that suit your needs and experience. Read below!
Join a rewarding dental volunteer program in Cusco, Peru, where you’ll assist local dental clinics while gaining valuable hands-on experience. As a dental volunteer, you’ll support daily clinic operations, shadow professionals, and educate patients about oral hygiene. Tasks range from organizing paperwork to assisting with teeth cleaning and preparing dental materials, tailored to your skills and Spanish proficiency.
Beyond volunteering, immerse yourself in Peru’s vibrant culture by staying with a host family, savoring local cuisine, and exploring Cusco’s historical treasures. With weekends free, discover iconic sites like Machu Picchu. Make a lasting impact while advancing your professional development in this unique program!
This program offers an unparalleled opportunity to assist in dental clinics, providing essential care to underserved communities while gaining practical experience in the field. Volunteers support clinic operations, shadow skilled professionals, and educate patients on oral hygiene, fostering meaningful connections and cultural exchange. Stay with a welcoming host family, immerse yourself in vibrant local traditions, and enhance your professional and personal growth. Whether you’re assisting with dental tools, patient education, or routine check-ups, this program promises a fulfilling and career-enriching experience.
Founded in 2003, Maximo Nivel offers a variety of programs in Latin America for those who want to volunteer and intern abroad, as well as learn Spanish.
Having done a lot to create meaningful change in disadvantaged communities in Latin America, Maximo Nivel is recognized as a top-ranked volunteer program provider in the region. Serving more than 4,000 students, volunteers, and travelers each year, they offer very affordable placements in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru.
Maximo Nivel currently has several placements for students and professionals interested in dentistry. Read on for details!
Maximo Nivel offers an enriching opportunity to provide essential dental care to underserved communities in Latin America.
As a volunteer, you’ll assist local dentists and hygienists with consultations, cleanings, and treatments, while also educating patients on proper oral hygiene practices. This hands-on experience not only enhances your dental skills but also immerses you in the local culture. Volunteers typically work 3 to 4 hours per day, Monday through Friday, allowing ample time to explore the beauty and diversity of Latin America.
Maximo Nivel ensures a comprehensive program with accommodations, meals, and ongoing support, making your volunteer journey both impactful and memorable.
This immersive experience pairs you with local dental professionals, allowing you to assist in patient consultations, treatments, and community education on oral hygiene.
Interns engage in tasks such as preparing materials, sanitizing instruments, and performing administrative duties, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings. Intermediate Spanish proficiency is required to effectively communicate and contribute during the internship. If needed, Maximo Nivel offers online Spanish classes and in-person Spanish immersion programs to help build your language skills.
Beyond professional development, you’ll immerse yourself in the rich cultures of Latin America, making a meaningful impact on communities in need.
Projects Abroad is one of the largest volunteer abroad organizations in the world.
Established in 1992, it has hosted over 135,000 participants across 190 projects in 20 destinations around the world. The organization’s mission is to make a real impact in the communities it serves by carefully planning and monitoring its projects.
The organization’s hassle-free approach includes airport pickups, local transportation, and safe, clean accommodation, all included in the price. In addition to volunteering, it offers a variety of internships and teaching abroad opportunities, as well as programs for families, groups, and high school students.
Its minimum age requirements are 16 for Flexi trips and 15 for High School Specials. It also offers a lot of flexibility for volunteers, including accommodating dietary requirements, accommodation preferences, accessibility needs, and interpreter services at no additional cost wherever possible.
Get your dentistry career off to the best possible start by gaining international experience on a Projects Abroad Dentistry Internship. Before you know it, you can be observing and working alongside some of the best dentists in another country.
Projects Abroad offers six dental internships abroad that provide individuals with the clinical skills necessary to take the next step in their future careers as dentists.
Not only will you learn from qualified dentists and gain global experience, but you will also have the opportunity to work in professional medical facilities, such as a hospital dental ward or a specialist dental clinic. You will gain insight into how dental practices differ in developing countries and how dentists cope with fewer resources. You will observe oral diseases and conditions much more advanced than what you would see at home, as well as routine and complex procedures, such as root canals or maxillo-facial surgery. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on dental outreaches and raise awareness of oral hygiene.
An international dental internship is perfect to expand your medical horizons. Check out the programs in:
Projects Abroad set itself apart from other internship programs by focusing on benefiting the communities in which they work. They track the positive impact their projects have through a secure and anonymous Global Impact Database, which allows them to use data to shape medical outreaches and health awareness programs. They also work alongside real healthcare professionals, providing individuals with the opportunity to observe them in their everyday work, ask questions, and hear more about their experiences.
Additionally, they often have the ability to tailor the internship to their interests, allowing them to work in more than one department or focus on one particular area.
Involvement Volunteers International (IVI), established in 1989, is a non-profit charity that beckons individuals to be part of 25,000 volunteers who’ve positively impacted 112 projects in 23 countries.
They have an excellent safety record, in-country 24/7 support & emergency assistance. IVI currently offers one dental internship program located in Kathmandu, Nepal.
This internship is open to dental students and licensed professionals in the dental field. Since this is a comprehensive internship, the minimum duration of the program is 4 weeks. You will spend your time shadowing dentists and nurses in dental hospitals, as well as assisting doctors and nurses as needed.
What is really interesting about this program is the chance to see different departments such as the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Department of Prosthodontics, the Department of Community Dentistry, etc, to expand your dental knowledge. You will work a minimum of 25 hours a week. There will also be an English-speaking coordinator to assist you as needed. And to start the internship, you will have an introduction week to Nepalese culture to help you settle. Your accommodation will be located in the heart of the city of Kathmandu, and close by to the hospital. For more details on how to start this amazing internship, click here!
The Basics of Volunteering Solutions: Volunteering Solutions (VolSol) is an international volunteer organization that was started in 2006. Since 2007, they have hosted over 10,000 volunteers in projects across 20+ countries, including popular destinations such as Nepal, India, Thailand, South Africa, Peru, and Costa Rica.
Volunteering Solution’s volunteer projects are among the most affordably priced in the world, starting at $200 USD for one week. In addition to their 120+ volunteer projects, Volunteering Solutions also offers intern abroad opportunities, the highlight of which are their dental and medical internships. To learn more about Volunteering Solutions and apply to their program, visit their website here.
Project Details: Volunteering Solutions is a good choice for pre-dental and dental students looking for exciting volunteer and internship opportunities abroad at an affordable price. Depending on the location, Volunteering Solutions places students anywhere from the dental departments of large urban hospitals to a rural dental clinic at a village school. Dental students get a wonderful opportunity to work with and learn from dental professionals while learning to provide care in situations very different from their home environments. This can be a huge boost to the dental careers of many students as they get unique and differentiating hands-on work experience in an international environment.
This program offers dental students and professionals the opportunity to shadow experienced English-speaking dentists, gaining firsthand exposure to various specialties such as endodontics, orthodontics, and maxillofacial surgery. Interns can observe up to 40 hours per week, aligning with the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) guidelines for medical shadowing.
Beyond professional development, participants immerse themselves in Greek culture, with weekends free to explore ancient ruins, art, and philosophy. Accommodation is provided in fully furnished shared apartments, conveniently located near public transportation, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience throughout the internship.
As part of Volunteering Solutions’ medical volunteer program in Tanzania, dentistry students and professionals are welcome to sign up to work in the dental department of a large hospital in Arusha. You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside local professionals and learn about dental practices in Africa while gaining hands-on experience to help further your studies and career. You’re invited to stay eight weeks or longer to learn the most from your experience in Tanzania.
Another excellent internship you can take on as a dental student is Volunteering Solutions’ dental elective in Peru. Similar to the elective in India, this internship invites you to shadow a local professional and assist with tasks such as sterilization of supplies and assisting with hands-on tasks such as cleanings, extractions, and more, depending on your background experience. As an intern, you’ll also have the chance to visit public schools and kindergartens to teach about oral hygiene practices. You’re invited to stay eight weeks or longer.
Love Volunteers began in 2009 with a focus on transparency, affordability, and creating lasting change in communities around the world.
Established in 2009, they’ve quickly become a well-respected name in volunteering abroad. Within their first decade, they sent more than 20,000 volunteers abroad. Love Volunteers’ popularity continues to rise, with more than 4,000 volunteers choosing them in the past year.
Love Volunteers has volunteer and internship programs for dentists and dentistry students in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Depending on your level of experience and whether you have certifications, you may shadow a local dentist, prepare and sterilize equipment, carry out maintenance duties in the clinic or hospital, visit schools and community centers to educate about oral hygiene, and even directly assist dentists with their work.
Interns have the unique chance to collaborate with experienced medical teams in hospitals that are often short on resources. Depending on your placement, you might find yourself in a bustling facility that cares for over 250 outpatients daily, houses 250 beds, and completes more than 1,500 surgeries each year. Alternatively, you could be stationed at a government-run health center with a 45-bed capacity, typically treating between 150 and 200 outpatients per day and performing upwards of 500 surgeries annually.
Both locations address a wide spectrum of healthcare needs, including pediatrics, HIV/AIDS management, malaria and tuberculosis care, eye and dental services, mental health support, and maternity wards. Volunteers take on tasks aligned with their personal interests and level of experience, all with the shared goal of enhancing medical services for the surrounding community.
Understanding the Costs for Dental Volunteer Abroad Projects
As you’re researching medical mission trip opportunities, keep in mind all the expenses. You may be responsible for:
- Program Fees (From $180 up to $3,000+)
- Airfare (Up to $1,000+)
- Necessary expenses: travel insurance, medications, vaccinations, visa fees, etc (up to $500+)
- Miscellaneous in-country expenses: shopping, sightseeing, etc (varies)
When you add it all up, a medical mission trip could cost you anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over $4,000.
Costs vary based on the program, plane ticket prices, and other factors, like visa fees and the amount of medical care required before departure.
To keep your costs down, consider an affordable, high-quality program. Furthermore, most organizations offer discounts the longer you stay. So, an eight-week dentistry internship abroad may cost 25% less per week than a four-week placement.
Some other money-saving strategies include:
- Applying for volunteer abroad scholarship and grants: The Volunteer Forever Travel Scholarship can get you up to $500 or $1000 for your volunteer or intern abroad trip.
- Fundraising: Medical mission trip participants can be very successful when it comes to fundraising for their trip.
- Looking for cheap flights: Airfare can sometimes account for over half of your volunteer abroad expenses, especially if you’re flying across the world (like from Canada to Thailand). Book well in advance, use miles or points, and/or fly during non-peak season. Some organizations, such as International Volunteer HQ, work with a team of humanitarian flight agents to get volunteers cheap tickets.
So, while volunteering abroad for dental care can seem expensive, you can offset the cost by planning ahead, employing smart strategies, and utilizing your resources!
Let’s Recap! Dental Volunteering and Medical Mission Trips Abroad
Dental volunteering abroad presents a unique opportunity to make a positive impact and grow as a person and medical professional.
Whether you’re trained in the oral healthcare field or not, you can find a suitable program and make a difference in the oral health needs of children and families across the globe.
Depending on where you are in your studies or occupation, volunteering abroad for dental care can have a variety of benefits.
If you’re an established dental professional, you can spread your valuable skills and knowledge to local communities. You can utilize your skills to treat those who don’t have adequate access to oral healthcare. And you get to work in a new environment and possibly even in a different field of expertise. That can be very exciting.
For dental and pre-dental students, dentistry volunteering and internships enable you to observe your field in its most basic role—helping people. Since oral healthcare is so difficult to obtain in many parts of the world, many communities rely on dental volunteers and students to fill in the gaps. Furthermore, you’ll gain crucial real-world experience when you volunteer abroad for dental care, which can not only boost your resume but also help you figure out what you want to do in dentistry.
In short, dental volunteering abroad means the chance to make a tangible impact as a skilled volunteer. Like with unskilled volunteer abroad opportunities, the most beautiful benefits come from serving and helping people. You can improve health outcomes and lives. And you’ll make lasting connections with those you serve.
Just remember: The patients that you serve must be the primary beneficiaries of your volunteer abroad service! Thoroughly research programs and make certain they abide by ADEA guidelines (like those listed here).
Ready for Your Dental Volunteer Adventure?
Now that you’re informed, start planning your dental or pre-dental volunteer abroad journey. Consider your dentistry experience and qualifications, as well as your goals, budget, and preferences for location.
To streamline your search, and cut expenses, set up your Volunteer Forever profile. Apply to your project and begin fundraising on our platform. Other volunteers have raised thousands for their trip—and you can too!
For even more help in finding and applying for a dental volunteer program, check out the following Volunteer Forever resources:
- Our list of the best volunteer abroad programs
- Our guide on how to volunteer abroad ethically
- Our articles on volunteer abroad opportunities for nurses and medical volunteer abroad programs
- Our overview of affordable volunteer programs
Nick Callos ยท Writer
With a BA in English Literature & Writing from Boston College, Nick researches and writes about volunteer, intern, and teach abroad programs worldwide. He has studied abroad and taught English in Chengdu, China, and aims to help fellow travelers make a lasting impact on the communities they visit.