Success story from Aleppo: For the past 10 years, the Green Helmets’ mobile dental clinics have been providing free treatments in and around the city of Aleppo in Syria. It is an offer that many people gratefully accept — one that relieves pain and brings so much more positive change. For too long, necessary dental treatments were postponed amid the turmoil of war. But read for yourself.
By Yvonne Neudeck
Bonn, April 20, 2026 – Hadeel, a 10‑year‑old girl, came to the mobile dental clinic accompanied by her mother. The clinic is run by our Syrian partner, the Independent Doctors Association (IDA), together with the Green Helmets. She brought with her a problem that went far beyond physical health. Hadeel had been bullied at school because of her smile, especially her front teeth. This had caused significant psychological distress. She withdrew more and more, avoided smiling, and eventually no longer wanted to attend school due to shame and low self‑confidence.
Her mother explained that the situation was the result of an earlier trauma to her front teeth caused by a fall that had broken the dental crown. This affected not only her appearance but also the function of the tooth. Due to difficult financial circumstances, the family could not afford treatment in a private clinic and was forced to postpone the necessary care, even though Hadeel continued to suffer.
In search of help, her mother brought Hadeel to the mobile dental clinic, hoping that her daughter could regain her smile and her confidence. The medical team immediately began treatment. On 16 February 2026, a comprehensive clinical examination was carried out, followed by the reconstruction of the broken tooth using modern filling materials. The next day, the treatment was completed with final aesthetic restorations and an adjustment of her bite. Hadeel also received guidance on how to maintain the results.
This case shows how a seemingly simple dental problem can have profound emotional and social consequences. A timely and relatively straightforward treatment has fundamentally changed Hadeel’s life — giving her not only her bright smile back, but also her confidence and the chance to return to school with dignity and joy.
The Green Helmets now operate three mobile dental clinics in northern Syria, in close cooperation with IDA.
