In the beginning you don't know what to expect, but after 7 years of returning yearly to perform free dental care, education, prevention, and providing dental supplies for 1000 children yearly you see the smiles and know you have made a difference in the world…
First year it was the assessment- Drinking coke was causing the decay. It was cheaper than milk and the children were addicted. So first order of business was Coke out, fluoride in and the education began.
Next year outfitted a two operatory dental clinic next to the school for direct care. In a three week period 3 teams of dentists, hygienists, and assistants work hard to provide the most service to the 1000 children ages 2-18. Some of the 4-6 year olds had 16-20 cavities from sweets and no brushing.
Dozens of toothbrushes and toothpaste were distributed with lessons & games on what to do with them. Companies including, Pulpdent, Oral B, GC America, Colgate, Hu-Friedy, Schein , Patterson, and other dental companies provide us with generous supplies.
A local villager was sent to dental school in Mexico to provide care when we were back in the States. Keeping dental care going year round.
The 35 American and Canadian families that vacation in retirement are the key to our success. It makes our work easy and focused because they do all the organizing and provide housing and meals. We provide dental care.
We do keep records and statistics. The success has been as the children grow, we are seeing healthier teeth due to reduction of sweets, sealants, education, prevention, fluoride, and providing dental supplies galore and the presence of the volunteers. You feel satisfied that you helped put your mark on the world by helping these children smile. Also you are a part of the progression and recognize some of the same children as they grow. I feel they give far more than I give to them. Project Stretch has made a small mark on the vast world with the dental care provided in Teacapan Mexico.
Over the years about 80 members have volunteered in Mexico . A lot of us have had the privilege to experience, the people, and beauty of this land back in time until next spring.
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