The University of Malta’s School of Dentistry celebrated the tenth anniversary of its mobile dental clinic, highlighting that tooth decay and erosion remain the most common dental problems among adults in Malta. The clinic provides dental examinations, oral health guidance, and overall health advice.
The mobile service, launched ten years ago, reaches villages, schools, and community events across Malta and Gozo, offering free dental care.
Over the years, dental students have treated over 20,000 patients, including approximately 20 cases requiring emergency intervention.
Professor Nicola Attard, Dean of the School of Dentistry, explained that the clinic visits the community at least twice a week. “Some schools invite us regularly; we don’t even need to reach out—they remind us almost every year,” he said.
This well-equipped mobile clinic offers more than just examinations. “We discuss balanced diets, offer smoking cessation tips, and encourage moderate eating in children and adults,” Professor Attard added.
The program also provides practical training for dental students. “We develop social skills, especially with anxious patients,” said dental student Nicholas Vella Russo.
Fellow students Yan Camilleri and Amy Gauws emphasized the importance of teaching oral hygiene, providing free exams, and helping patients feel at ease.
To commemorate this milestone, the School of Dentistry held a special event at the university, celebrating 10 years of community service and dental education.
