Municipal law creates the “Resgatando Sorrisos” program, which guarantees free and priority dental care to women victims of domestic violence in Rio de Janeiro
The town hall of Rio de Janeiro sanctioned, this Tuesday (21st), law n. 9.107/2025, which creates the “Resgatando Sorrisos” program. The program is designed to provide priority dental care to women who are victims of domestic violence. The initiative, unprecedented in the country, aims to reconstruct the oral and dental region of these women, giving them back not only their smile, but also part of their self-esteem and identity.
Rebuild your smile, restore self-esteem
According to Federal Government data, over 60% of women attacked suffer facial injuries, one of the regions most affected by episodes of violence. This is why the new program goes beyond aesthetic recovery: it represents an act of profound care and acceptance.
The proposal is from the councilor Gigi Castillo (Republicanos/RJ), who underlined the symbolic and emotional impact of the provision. “When a woman’s face is injured by violence, she doesn’t just lose her teeth or features. She loses part of her identity, her confidence and her desire to smile”he stated. “This law was created to restore something that the attacker tried to steal: the dignity reflected in the mirror.”
Service through SUS and partnerships with private clinics
Under the new legislation, care will be provided throughout the municipal public health network, including hospitals and basic units, with priority given to women who have suffered attacks. The network’s professionals will undergo specific training to deal with this type of trauma, which goes beyond physical pain and requires emotional sensitivity in treatment.
The law also authorizes the Municipality to establish partnerships with private dental clinics, which will be able to offer free treatment through agreements with public bodies, expanding the scope and agility of the service.
A gesture that symbolizes a new beginning
The face, as the councilor recalls, is one of the first areas affected in cases of aggression. “It’s where expressions, identity and communication are found. Reaching it is a way to nullify women”he underlined. Resgatando Sorrisos therefore aims to close the cycle of violence with acceptance, reconstruction and humanity, offering each woman the possibility of finding her own new beginning in the mirror. More than a public health policy, the initiative is an act of symbolic reparation: restoring a smile means restoring power, voice and dignity.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
