Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Guinea smiles

The dental program off-ship has seen over 6,000 patients as of the end of February.

That's a lot of teeth!

Every weekday the dental team travels a short distance to the Mercy Ships dental clinic.  It's not far, but my friend Roses has gotten very good at steering the Land Rover around all the people waiting in line.

Mercy Ships has a generator for the dental clinic, because the power often cuts out.  They use the generator for the sterilizers and other equipment, so it's pretty hot when the power goes out and they can't use the fans


While people wait, they are taught dental hygiene.  It seems like a lot of sugar is consumed here.  Children come to the clinic with all of their teeth rotted.



We've had a good number of dentists and hygienists during this outreach. We have a friend who was visiting the dental clinic today. He said that today they saw over 80 patients, filled about 80 cavities, and pulled over 200 teeth. People here can't afford dentures, so when their teeth are gone, they're gone!

 Before we left home, we made dental appointments.  I'm so thankful for my dental care.  I think I need to bring my dentist a plate of cookies!


Debbie

1 comment:

  1. Just catching up with your blog! You're in my thoughts and prayers...when do you get home? Can't believe it's March already..a few signs of spring with the bulbs starting to come up and birds returning, but we have snow predicted for later today. Thanks again for these posts...wonderful to hear what's happening. God bless!

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