With health problems or toothache, it is difficult to go to school and learn. Usthi aims to provide access to education for as many children in need as possible. Health and its promotion play a crucial role in this.

Dental diseases are widespread in India, with every second person suffering from caries. A large proportion of these diseases can be attributed to poor dental hygiene since childhood (Journal of International Society of Preventive & Community Dentistry, 2021).

To prevent this and to create awareness for the topic of dental health, a Dental Camp was held at Penthakata School in October. In cooperation with the dental institute of a local university in Bhubaneswar, a temporary dental clinic was set up on the school grounds. Students, teachers and staff of the Penthakata School, as well as residents of a neighbouring home for the elderly, were able to get free dental check-ups and treatment at the clinic. General check-ups, dental cleanings and fillings were offered. The mobile dental clinic was very popular, with almost 300 patients coming in for an appointment.

Low-threshold services and local collaborations such as the Dental Camp combine two central focal points of our work: health and education. Whenever possible, we use synergies in the Usthi projects to achieve the greatest possible impact in offering people in need prospects for a life of dignity and self-determination.