Students from Bellavista and San Lorenzo de Coya schools will be the first to access, free of charge, top-level dental care thanks to the voluntary work of dentists at the Santa María Committee Dental Clinic, located in El Teniente Stadium.

The clinic, which is supported by mothers and wives of El Teniente executives, offers free dental care to people who have financial limitations to access dental services.

In a joint effort, Codelco El Teniente Division supports the clinic with the supply of essential materials and supplies. From instruments, anesthesia and hygiene materials, this support guarantees the quality of care for the community.

Esonka Alfonso, the Committee's president, explained that "dental care is expensive and any procedure means a significant amount of money to be spent. It fills us with satisfaction to see people leave with their new prosthesis and a smile."

Mabel Caroca, Rafaela's mother, expressed her gratitude to the clinic for giving her daughter the opportunity to correct her bite with braces. “All this effort contributes to the health of children, free of charge, for people in nearby towns,” she said.

Today, with the support of 15 volunteer specialists, the clinic offers a wide range of services, including dental surgery, orthodontics, speech therapy, maxillofacial surgery, rehabilitation and X-rays.

Daniela Contreras, a volunteer and orthodontic specialist, said that “it is a great support for the community, because it finances treatment, but it also helps to restore people's smiles and self-esteem.”

Nicole Ascencio, a volunteer dental surgeon, added that “it is important that it is free care for those who really need it. In addition, we support them, because they are people who do not have access. With this, we generate a change in their future.”

Commitment to community health

During 2023, more than 1,000 people from Coya, Chacayes, Machalí and Rancagua benefited from this initiative, thus marking a significant impact on the health of the region.

María Amalia Silva, clinic manager and Committee member, explained that “the most important thing for us, the members who have been on this committee for years, is to contribute to those who need it most.” Cristián Sanhueza, Community Development Director, thanked “the invaluable work of the volunteers and specialists at the dental clinic. Their joint commitment directly contributes to strengthening the health and bond with our communities, adding significant value to our work.”