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Fantastic 4.56rating (55)

Dental Healthcare

location
2 - 50 weeks  ·  Age 16 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Experience the Dominican style of live and chill by the rhythm of Caribbean music!
  • Gain Spanish fluency with the help of our free Spanish classes and share daily life with locals!
  • Become more passionate about your studies and propel your career with international experience!

Highlights

  • Experience the Dominican style of live and chill by the rhythm of Caribbean music!
  • Gain Spanish fluency with the help of our free Spanish classes and share daily life with locals!
  • Become more passionate about your studies and propel your career with international experience!
  • Make memories you never forget during weekend excursions with your fellow participants!
  • Enjoy the gorgeous beaches of Samana, climb the mountain peaks of pico Duarte and visit historical sites in Santo Domingos' colonial town!

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 16+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+
    Wheel Chairs

    About the program

    Work side by side with Dentists at neighborhoods dental health clinics and learn by practicing

    DENTAL HEALTHCARE - Dentistry observation and experience opportunity

    Program Description 

    This Dentistry observation and experience opportunity is designed for current professionals and aspiring dentists. You'll gain hands-on work experience in a local hospital-based dental clinic or neighborhood ...

    About the program

    DENTAL HEALTHCARE - Dentistry observation and experience opportunity

    Program Description 

    This Dentistry observation and experience opportunity is designed for current professionals and aspiring dentists. You'll gain hands-on work experience in a local hospital-based dental clinic or neighborhood health clinic, witnessing the contrast between Western dentistry practice and the realities of dentistry in a developing country. Your involvement level will depend on your professional and Spanish language skills, motivation, and willingness to engage. Your work schedule will be discussed in a meeting with the departmental director, volunteer coordinator, and supervisor, but please note that schedules may be subject to sudden changes based on patients' needs. During the program, you'll shadow doctors and nurses and have the chance for hands-on experience according to your qualifications and language skills. To make the most of your involvement or if you have specific healthcare goals, please reach out to us promptly to discuss your options in detail.


    Volunteer placement or internship

    Our program offers flexible commitment options for volunteers, ranging from a minimum of 4 hours daily up to to 40 hours per week - you decide! If you're joining as an intern, we understand that your school or university may have specific requirements. Please inform us in advance about your internship criteria, enabling us to tailor a personalized work plan to suit your needs. Share your expectations and goals with us, and we'll work together to ensure you achieve them. We are happy to give students academic credit or provide a report outlining the learning outcomes and deliverables achieved during the internship.

    Requirements 

    We warmly welcome students and professionals from diverse backgrounds, including pre-university students aspiring for a dental career. Dental care volunteers should possess initiative, enthusiasm, and adaptability. Specialized skills enable engagement in more focused activities. While B1 Spanish skills are necessary, advanced proficiency opens up additional opportunities. Complimentary Spanish lessons are provided to enhance the experience of our valued dental care volunteers and interns. The program is open to elective students, dentistry students with available holiday time, pre-university students, and individuals pursuing specialized dentistry courses. Kindly bring easy-to-clean scrubs and closed shoes for clinic work, as they are mandatory.


    Typical day

    What to expect
    You have the opportunity to join this program at any time of the year. The working hours are primarily in the morning, aligning with the presence of doctors at the dental clinic. However, please be aware that as with any medical service, schedules may be subject to sudden changes, and ...

    Typical day

    What to expect
    You have the opportunity to join this program at any time of the year. The working hours are primarily in the morning, aligning with the presence of doctors at the dental clinic. However, please be aware that as with any medical service, schedules may be subject to sudden changes, and this is due to the priority of addressing patients' immediate needs. The flexibility of the program allows volunteers to make a significant impact, as they play a crucial role in supporting dental services. While the schedule might vary, it also provides a dynamic and immersive experience, allowing you to witness the diverse cases and challenges that arise in a dental clinic within a developing country setting. Rest assured that your dedication and willingness to adapt to changing circumstances will greatly contribute to the program's success and the overall well-being of the patients you serve. As you embrace this opportunity, you'll not only gain valuable hands-on experience but also make a positive difference in the lives of those in need of dental care.

    Holidays 

    Summer School Holidays: Youth Care & Community Volunteers are welcome to stay during Dominican Summer School Holidays and help out at our Children Summer Camp from July 1 to 31 , 2026. No Youth care & Community activities are planned during Christmas and New Year Holidays from December 18 to January 09, 2027.

    Christmas and New Year Holidays: Volunteers and Interns who participate in Multi Media, NGO Management, Medicine & Healthcare, Dental Care, Animal Rescue are welcome to work throughout the whole year except the Christmas and New Year Holidays December 24,25, 31 and January 01, 2027. 

    Attention: Volunteers are welcome to stay at our Volunteer Guesthouse during Dominican Christmas and new year holidays! Even though working and business life comes to a halt through this two week period when the whole country is celebrating Christmas, our volunteers are welcome to celebrate Christmas and new year together with us and the Dominican people!

    Activities can include but are not limited to

    • Observing, shadowing and assisting the dentist

    • Encouraging and teaching prevention of oral diseases through proper hygiene and regular check-ups for professional cleaning and evaluation (special prevention program for pregnant women)

    • Providing oral health services support when needed, including dental assistance, dental hygiene and dental therapy

    • Assisting the dentist according to your skills and experience with dental treatments: dental restorations, crowns, bridges, dentures, root canal therapy, periodontal therapy and extraction of teeth as well as dental examinations and diagnosis

    Guidelines on medical Issues of the Dominican Republic:

    • WHO report on health care reform in Dominican Republic, 2010

    • Health System of the Dominican Republic, 2011. The website provides an excellent overview of common medical issues in the DR and the government health system. Only available in Spanish.


    Free-time activities

    Program Highlights
    • Experience the Dominican style of live and chill by the rhythm of Caribbean music!
    • Gain Spanish fluency with the help of our free Spanish classes and share daily life with locals
    • Become more passionate about your studies and propel your career with international experience!
    • Make ...

    Free-time activities

    Program Highlights
    • Experience the Dominican style of live and chill by the rhythm of Caribbean music!
    • Gain Spanish fluency with the help of our free Spanish classes and share daily life with locals
    • Become more passionate about your studies and propel your career with international experience!
    • Make memories you never forget during weekend excursions with your fellow participants!
    • Enjoy the gorgeous beaches of Samana, climb the mountain peaks of pico Duarte and visit historical sites in Santo Domingos' colonial town!

    What makes the Dominican Republic and Samana such a special destiny?
    Samana is the name of both the peninsula and its biggest town located at Samana bay in the northeastern part of the Dominican Republic. It is a dramatically beautiful peninsula, like an island unto itself, of coconut trees stretching into the sea. The town of Samana is a scenic, beautiful and peaceful port, with friendly and easy-going Dominicans, living their life with tourism, agriculture and fishing activities, all set to the beat and rhythms of Merengue, Bachata and Salsa music. The Malecon (seaside promenade) of two kilometers length is perfect for strolling by day and night. It is the perfect place to while away the evening in a relaxing atmosphere in one of the many surrounding restaurants and bars. Hundreds of fantastic beaches surround the peninsula of Samana, which can be explored during a day trip or for the whole weekend. Experience the Dominican style of live and chill by the rhythm of Caribbean music!
    Other highlights nearby are:

    • Las Galeras y El Rincon - A small fisherman's town with beautiful beaches surrounded by nature. Travel by Bus (45 minutes / US$ 2,-)
    • El Limón - Famous waterfall and swimming. Travel by Bus (20 minutes / US$ 1,50,-)
    • Cayo Levantado - Small Island with beautiful beaches just of the coastline in Samana. Travel by Boat (15 minutes / US$ 2,-)
    • Parque National de los Haiteses - Park made of mangroves, caves with ancient paintings and beautiful bays with pristine beaches. Magnificent limestone caves to explore. Travel by Boat 60 minutes / US$ 10,-
    • Playa El Valle - A small fisherman's settlement with a beautiful beach surrounded by pristine nature. Travel by Moto Concho (MotoTaxi) (20 Minutes / US$ 3,-)
    • Great Kitesurfing beaches near Las Terrenas only an hour from Samana! The whole Peninsula of Samana is a wild and precious natural gem! People are extremely friendly and nature is gorgeous! 
    • Whale-Watching - From mid-January to late March the bay is home to some of the world's best whale-watching


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 16 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 16 years old on the program start date.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level) or Spanish (basic level)

    Education Requirements

    preferably medicine or dentistry at High school graduate or pre-university student with focus on Medicine or Dentistry level

    Required Documents

    CV

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Other Skills

    The key requirements for a dental care volunteer/intern are initiative, enthusiasm and readiness to work in unfamiliar circumstances. The dentistry program is available for elective students, dentistry students with free holiday time, and pre-university students, as well as students taking, or planning to take, specialist dentistry courses. Basic Spanish skills are needed, but an advanced level of Spanish experience will open up more opportunities. We offer free Spanish language lessons.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Costs & Benefits
    At Aldeas de Paz, we are committed to affordability and financial transparency with our open book policy. Our minimum contribution starts at just €155 per week (after the second week). This inclusive package covers Spanish language classes, comfortable accommodation in fully equipped guesthouse apartments, a dedicated program donation, personal welcome service, airport pick-up, bus transfer, bus fare, and a free transfer to your placement location.

    This is included:

    • Airport welcome service & transfer to your placement location

    • Fully equipped Accommodation in Las Terrenas or Samana depending where you will be placed

    • Free WiFi & access to washing machine

    • Free regular Spanish lessons throughout your placement

    • Placement introduction, certificate & student credit

    • Full support and 24/7 backup from local staff

    • Information about adventure packages & in-country travel

    Special Offer
    Enjoy free Spanish language classes for volunteers and interns, emphasizing practical communication skills. Develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing abilities naturally, similar to learning one's mother tongue. From day one, you'll use Spanish in real-life situations with role-plays, situational dialogues, and work projects complementing the basic syllabus. Beyond the classroom, immerse yourself in the Spanish language and Dominican culture for a continuous learning experience.

    Airport Pickup at Las Americas International Airport

    Travel Logistics
    Volunteer safety is our top priority. Upon your arrival at the airport, our friendly English-speaking driver will be there to greet you and help with your transit to the bus terminal. They'll ensure you have a direct and comfortable bus ticket to Samana, your placement location (approximately 2 hours). Once you arrive, our dedicated staff and fellow volunteers will warmly welcome you and escort you to your accommodation.

    Accommodation

    Accommodation
    Discover our sought-after volunteer guesthouse apartments in Samaná and Las Terrenas, offering convenience, safety, and scenic beauty. Standard accommodation includes shared rooms for bonding with fellow volunteers from diverse backgrounds. Choose from double, single, or homestay options to immerse in local culture. Enjoy free wifi and access to a washing machine. Collaborate with volunteers worldwide for a rich cultural exchange and lifelong friendships. Join us in creating a respectful and supportive community, ensuring a personally rewarding volunteering experience. Be part of this meaningful journey and leave with unforgettable memories and lasting friendships.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Food & Beverages

    Food, snacks or beverages are at extra costs.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Las Americas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo. We assist you to find cheap flights to Dominican Republic. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Dominican Republic provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Dominican Republic you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Dominican Republic. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Availability
    This program is ongoing throughout the whole year and is not paused even through holidays!


    Time Commitment
    A minimum time commitment of 2 weeks is required and can be extended up to one year 


    Placement Location
    Las Terrenas


    About your Placement Location
    The Aldeas de Paz Foundation is based in the charming coastal villages of Samana and Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic. Samana, in the north-eastern corner, has about 15,000 inhabitants and is renowned for its safety, tranquil atmosphere, and beautiful beaches. The community values social responsibility and exudes a secure, small European town vibe. The Dominican Republic's countryside is widely recognized for its peacefulness, making it one of the safest regions in the Caribbean. When you join our program, you'll experience a welcoming and secure environment while contributing to meaningful projects in this picturesque part of the world.
    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $583 per week 2 - 50 weeks Age 16 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    2 - 50 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.


    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.6
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers

    Location


    Meet your project coordinator

    Nilaya
    55
    reviews
    4.56
    Fantastic
    2001
    Founded

    Verified

      Very high response rate
    Spoken languages: Portuguese, English, German, Spanish
    Travel safely by using Volunteer World for your communication and bookings. This way, you can benefit from the Flex Option, Refund Guarantee, and Resolution Support.

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    Contact Nilaya
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    Portuguese, English, German, Spanish

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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