Jongsung Kim: Healing Beyond the Tooth: Integrating Endodontics, Dental Technology, and Mission Dentistry

Objectives:1. Recognize the role of dentistry as part of Christ’s comprehensive healing ministry and describe how oral healthcare can restore physical function, dignity, and hope.2. Describe how collaboration among dentists, endodontists, dental assistants, hygienists, and dental laboratory professionals can enhance the quality and sustainability of dental care in mission settings.3. Discuss practical methods for integrating endodontic treatment and dental laboratory support to provide comprehensive restorative care in resource-limited communities.4. Identify essential steps in preparing for successful dental mission trips, including spiritual preparation, team organization, equipment planning, case selection, infection control, cultural awareness, and coordination with local healthcare partners.5. Apply principles of servant leadership, mentorship, and teamwork, flowing from a heart surrendered to Christ, to develop sustainable dental ministries that continue beyond short-term mission trips and strengthen lo