An amazing opportunity that allows those interested in the dental field to gain hands on experience with experienced dental practitioners in Ecuador. Students will also be able to learn about dental care in Quito and come away with an incredible cultural experience.

Our dental program combines in-class learning with practical volunteer work in dental clinics. The duration of the program is one month. Students will spend their 4 weeks in the program rotating through various dental clinics in Quito (4 hours per day, Monday – Friday). The student will receive 40 hours of Spanish lessons throughout the month; however, additional hours can be arranged at an extra cost. These lessons will have a dental vocabulary focus in order to assist students with necessary terminology for the clinical placement. Spanish lessons will be arranged to accommodate clinical volunteer placements.

The clinics have experienced dentists who enjoy sharing their knowledge with students. Most clinics have experience in teaching students. Students will be able to observe and assist, allowing for a unique learning experience.  The following specialties are available:

• General dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Extractions
• Prophylaxis
• Dental surgery
• Extractions
• Cavity treatments
• Maxillofacial surgery
• Implants
• Oral rehabilitation
• Implants and prosthesis

We also offer students the opportunity to spend two weeks in Quito and two weeks in the Amazonian Jungle city of Puyo. Clinical placements are available in Puyo and offer similar services to the surrounding rural communities.

Eligibility

No prior dental training is required, but an interest in the dental field is recommended. Those with prior dental experience or studies may be able to assist with procedures during their placement. We recommend that volunteers be 18 years or older to participate in this program, however exceptions can be made. The program runs all year and begins at the start of each month.

Homestay

Participating families are chosen for their friendliness and helpfulness. They all have experience with hosting foreign students, and live in a very safe residential neighbourhood in the North of Quito. Living with an Ecuadorian family helps the students learn about the culture, customs, and food of the country, while at the same giving them the opportunity to practice their Spanish.  Each student will have their own private room, shared bathroom, 2 meals per day (breakfast and dinner Monday to Saturday), and laundry service once a week. Students will be with the same family for the duration of the program.  All the families usually have two or more students in the house. Generally students share the same interests and enjoy having someone to travel with, not only to different areas around Ecuador, but while in Quito as well.

Program Costs

The cost per month is $1,800.00 (USD).  Please see our Program Fees page for a list of what this price includes.