From 7–10 April, lecturer Judith Roger and four fifth-year students from the Bachelor’s Degree in Dentistry provided dental care to people in vulnerable situations, helping to improve their oral health and quality of life while applying the knowledge acquired in the Social Dentistry module. During their stay in Melilla, participants carried out treatments of varying complexity, including dental cleanings, periodontal scaling, fillings, root canal treatments and extractions. They also delivered health education activities aimed at encouraging healthy oral hygiene habits.

The initiative also represented a significant clinical and human challenge. In many cases, treatments had to be carried out under conditions different from those usually encountered and with limited resources. This required students to draw on their adaptability and problem-solving skills to provide the best possible care using the materials available at the centre’s clinic.

As the participating students explained, “We treated people who had been through extreme situations, often with very limited access to healthcare. We carried out restorative treatments, extractions and hygiene procedures, but the most important thing was the human connection. The gratitude and trust shown by the patients, despite cultural and language barriers, prompted us to reflect on the role of dentists as agents of public and social health.”

The experience left a lasting impression on the students, who highlighted both the clinical learning and the personal growth gained during the mission. “We are grateful to the Faculty for giving us this opportunity. Not only have we learned a great deal and gained professional confidence, but we have also been able to make a meaningful contribution,” they noted.

Dr Judith Roger, lecturer on the programme and coordinator of the outreach initiative, speaks very highly of its impact, which has now become a well-established part of the Faculty of Dentistry’s cooperation and learning activities at UIC Barcelona.

“This is now the fourth time the Faculty has organised a trip to Melilla to support the project, and I must say it never ceases to impress me. I see it as a learning opportunity on both a personal and professional level for students and staff alike. Stepping outside our comfort zone to provide this kind of service to those who need it most is immensely valuable.”

Through initiatives such as this, the Faculty of Dentistry reaffirms its commitment to a well-rounded education grounded in academic excellence, social responsibility and responsiveness to people’s real needs. The “Caring for Smiles, Changing Lives” programme gives students and teaching staff the opportunity to place their knowledge at the service of the community and make a positive impact on society.