In a heartwarming initiative to bring smiles and improve oral health, the Davao Smiles humanitarian dental project unfolded in Davao City, Philippines, on November 1 and 2, 2024. The project provided essential dental care free of charge to 91 patients, predominantly children, from underserved communities who could not otherwise afford treatment. Timed to coincide with the National Children’s Month celebrations in the Philippines, this collaborative effort highlighted the transformative impact of international cooperation and local support.

Bringing Global Expertise to Local Needs

The Davao Smiles initiative was spearheaded by a diverse team of dental and academic professionals, including dentists from South Korea’s Chicago Dental Clinic and the Philippines’ Urbidontics. Alongside them, six University of Utah Asia Campus (UAC) students, enrolled in Dr. Paul S. Rose’s Communication 4560 course, documented the mission as part of their academic curriculum. The team worked tirelessly to ensure patients received high-quality care, from triage to treatment.

 

Key figures in the project included Dr. Rose, Professor Lecturer Emeritus at UAC, who initiated the collaboration, and Dr. Gamaliel Urbi of Urbidontics, who provided vital dental facilities. Dr. JeongWoo Lee, representing Chicago Dental Clinic, led a team of three dentists and 13 clinicians, contributing both expertise and resources to the effort.

Collaboration Across Borders

The project’s success was underpinned by the contributions of numerous organizations and volunteers:

• Chicago Dental Clinic: Based in Bupyeong, South Korea, the clinic covered travel expenses for its team of dentists and clinicians, emphasizing the importance of giving back to underserved communities.
• Urbidontics: Located in Davao City, this dental facility provided five dental chairs and logistical support, ensuring a smooth treatment process.
• University of Utah’s College of Humanities: Sponsored travel for six student documentarians, enabling them to capture the essence of the mission on film.
• Global Impact: This nonprofit played a crucial role in patient identification, transportation, and education, particularly for individuals from remote areas.
• 56th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army: Assisted in transporting patients from formerly rebel-held and indigenous regions, underscoring the mission’s reach and inclusivity.
• Mindanao Medical Foundation College: Supported the dental mission with five student clinicians, further enhancing the project’s impact.

A Broader Vision

Beyond delivering immediate dental care, Davao Smiles exemplified the power of education, cross-cultural collaboration, and compassion. The University of Utah Asia Campus’s involvement provided students with invaluable real-world experience, enriching their academic journey. The project also highlighted the potential for future collaborations to address healthcare gaps in vulnerable communities.

Adding to the spirit of giving, Dr. Jung-woo Lee, a participant in the dental mission, made a generous donation of 24 million KRW towards UAC student scholarships in April 2024. Inspired by Utah’s culture of donation and volunteerism, Dr. Lee’s contribution supports global talents dedicated to service.

After completing their work in Davao City, the team enjoyed a well-deserved day of cultural exploration in Cebu, a fitting conclusion to an initiative rooted in connection and shared purpose.