Last week, I worked with a group of volunteers that held 5 days of dental clinics to serve over 1400 kids. It was a busy week! The kids passed through stations where they received a toothbrush and learned how to brush their teeth, visited a dental hygienist to get their teeth cleaned, and then those who had serious issues were referred to a dentist for extractions. (Everyone also received a prize bag at the end).
The week a huge learning experience for me, because it was the first time I had ever really examined anyone's teeth besides my own. I never realized how lucky I am to have always owned a toothbrush and have grown up with regular dentist visits. It was heartbreaking to see young kids with so few teeth left, largely due to a high-sugar diet and lack of dental care -- a handful of kids we worked with mentioned that it was the first toothbrush they had owned, and for most, it was the first time their teeth had ever been cleaned!
It's pretty amazing how something so crucial that seems so routine to us back in the US can be so inaccessible here, but it was great to have a group here focusing on the needs of the kids for a full week.
It was great working with you for the week Kristi. And, Yes, we are so blessed to have the little things here in America, as a toothbrush and toothpaste. Hopefully, each visit will inspire just one child to understand the importance of good oral care.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to 2014.
Carol Martin