Wenchuan earthquake: response of Chinese dental professionals

On 12 May 2008, an earthquake with a magnitude of 8.0 on the Richter scale hit Wenchuan, China. In the aftermath of this natural disaster, Chinese dental professionals actively participated in the first emergency medical response team, definitive dental treatment, oral health services and education, and the recovery of local oral care infrastructure and resources. Learning from the experience and first-hand data of the Wenchuan earthquake, dental professionals can increase their awareness of the importance of collaborative emergency response health services in mass casualty events. Further research and emphasis is needed to encourage the participation of dental professionals in disaster preparation training and practice.