The main objective of the “Caring for Smiles, Changing Lives” project is to safeguard the health of those who need it most, while simultaneously fostering the comprehensive and humanistic training of future dentists. According to Dr Lluís Giner, dean of the Faculty of Dentistry at UIC Barcelona, "This project not only allows us to improve the health of vulnerable people, but it also trains students to be professionals committed to their community and to their patients."

The people treated have received full treatments at the University Dental Clinic (CUO) on the Sant Cugat campus, where a team of professionals and students have carried out procedures such as ultrasonic cleanings, fluoride treatments, extractions, fillings, and assessments for potential full rehabilitations.

To ensure maximum transparency in the selection of these patients, the Faculty has established a joint social dentistry committee responsible for evaluating each case.  According to Elisa Sanagustin, president of the Commission, “Equity and transparency are fundamental to this project.  This is why we assess each patient individually to ensure that the care reaches those who truly need it. We ensure that all treatments performed are supervised by social services and supported by the clinical team.”

The patients treated so far have presented complex dental issues and mainly come from the Vallès Occidental area. The care and follow-up of the patients has been supervised by the relevant social services to ensure safe and coordinated treatment with the healthcare and social environment.

This collaboration with the Banco Sabadell Foundation demonstrates UIC Barcelona's commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting actions that have a positive impact on the health and well-being of people in vulnerable situations. Furthermore, this initiative reinforces the educational commitment of the University to train professionals with a clear social vocation and a humanistic approach.