Book excerpt: This book is an important companion to Hesperian's classic book Where There Is No Doctor. All Hesperian books are regularly updated and reprinted to reflect accurate medical information. Community health workers, educators and individuals from around the world use Where There Is No Dentist to help people care for their teeth and gums. This book's broad focus makes it an invaluable resource. The author uses straightforward language and careful instructions to explain how to examine patients diagnose common dental problems make and use dental equipment use local anesthetics place fillings and remove teeth There is also a special chapter on oral health and HIV/AIDS, which provides the dental worker with a detailed, well-illustrated discussion of the special problems faced by people living with HIV/AIDS, and appropriate treatment.