Basic Dental Care for Disadvantaged Children and Adults in and around Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Supported by New Zealand and Australian Embassies

The project has focused on vulnerable and disadvantaged people within the community, namely orphans, children and adults with HIV or disabilities, homeless and slum-dwelling children and adults. 

The disadvantaged children and adults referred by NGOs under this project were treated primarily by dental students in years 3, 4 and 5 (under supervision).  Where appropriate, they were provided with a toothbrush and all were given oral health education, so they could take action to improve their oral health and prevent future disease. The care provided at IU was overseen by Dr Callum Durward and other staff at the Faculty of Dentistry.  They provided oversight and monitoring for the treatment provided by KAD staff and visiting IU dental students at Tak Kmao.  There were intermittent visits from volunteer dentists and dental therapists from Australia (and other countries) who also provided treatment and supervised students. 

International University and KAD contacted NGOs and other groups which worked with disadvantaged groups in and around Phnom Penh.  Arrangements were made to bring groups of patients to the clinic at IU and Tak Kmao at particular times for treatment.  The university has a van which can be used for this purpose when necessary.  Patients were assessed, and an appropriate treatment plan made.  Over one or more visits, treatment was carried out. Some children and adults received toothbrushes, as well as oral health education and preventive measures.  Careful records of the treatment provided have been kept.  Standard guidelines for cross-infection control were strictly adhered to.  All instruments were autoclaved after use. 

Immediate Results

• Each month approximately 100 disadvantaged adults and children referred by NGOs were seen in one of the clinics and receive dental treatment
• Clients had less pain, were able to eat better, had improved oral health, and benefited from an improved appearance. 

Long-term Benefits

• Improved knowledge and ability to have life-long good oral health both for themselves and their families.
• The dental clinics become known as places where good quality dental care can be obtained at low cost for those in need. 

Direct Beneficiaries

• The direct beneficiaries were disadvantaged children and adults referred by NGOs.

Indirect Beneficiaries

• The dental students (both male and female) from International University, who benefited greatly from the clinical experience, and gained an understanding of the oral health needs within the community and how they  played a role in caring for vulnerable groups.