Taiwanese dentists provide vital care to Cambodian children with rampant cavities

For 13 years, a dental team from Taiwan's Chung Shan Medical University has traveled to Cambodia, bringing much-needed dental care to underserved communities. This year, nearly 600 residents in the rural Siem Reap province received free check-ups, fillings, extractions, and fluoride treatments.

The mission focused on remote areas, including the impoverished floating villages of Tonle Sap Lake. Many residents there lack formal identification and access to healthcare, making the annual visit from the Taiwanese dentists a highly anticipated event. Some traveled for up to an hour and a half by boat to receive treatment.

Local children often suffer from severe tooth decay due to poor hygiene and lack of regular dental check-ups. "Some children had such severe cavities, we don't know how long they endured the pain, yet they lay quietly on the chair and accepted treatment, which was heartbreaking," said Cai Xin-yun, the mission's coordinator.

Beyond treatment, the team emphasized oral hygiene education, using translated materials and interactive activities to teach proper brushing techniques. They also organized hygiene camps and competitions, with students demonstrating good habits and showing no plaque buildup after years of consistent education. The group also donated 400 kilograms of clothing, shoes, stationery, and toys, bringing warmth and care to the villagers.

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Some children had such severe cavities, we don't know how long they endured the pain, yet they lay quietly on the chair and accepted treatment, which was heartbreaking.