The dental needs of the people in many third world nations are unimaginable.   Even the basics of dental hygiene such as toothbrushes and toothpaste are a seldom seen luxury - and floss is an unknown.  The water has no fluoride to prevent decay and malnutrition fosters dental disease.   The diet is loaded with refined sugar in the form of sugar cane and cheap soft drinks.   Dental caries are rampant at an early age causing most children and adults to have teeth that have decayed at the gums with acute and chronic oral infections.   Often is care is rarely available but, even then, it is out of reach due to the lack of financial resources for most of this area.

Usual treatment was extraction, not the preferred remedy, however.With the generous support of donors modern clinics are often available.   .  Modern equipment is available including lights, suction, air compressors, high speed drills, modern filling materials and local anesthesia.  As well, there is a fluoride program in the schools.   The potential to help in the area of Santa Lucia is now limited only by the financial support available and by the volunteerism of the dentists and dental assistants who make the trip to provide care. An effort is underway to staff our dental clinic full time and to spread the success to other villages.

One of the best sources for finding a mission is / .  Here you can search by specialty, region and duration of trip.

A participating dentist, of any specialty, can expect a tremendously rewarding experience . The brigades last about 2 weeks and all incidental travel arrangements are taken care of - the dentists and staff have only to concentrate on dentistry.   As with the medical brigade, supplies are always in need and donations to be used on the brigade are always welcome.   They are typically carried in the participants' suitcases from the States to Honduras.   If you are interested in participating, please complete an application form and return it to the address provided on the form.The dental program has been such a great success that plans are underway to expand to other communities.  Dental treatment, prevention, education, hygiene and fluoride programs are all included in this vision.   Please take a moment to consider how you can be part of this extremely important and much needed effort.  Your contribution of time or funds will truly make a difference in the lives of some who are most in need.