Going to Honduras on a dental service trip was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to impact the lives of those in need while fostering global compassion and service. By providing essential dental care to underserved communities, we aim to address immediate oral health concerns and encourage the community to practice good oral hygiene. Throughout the week, my dental hygiene classmates and I got many opportunities to expand our dental knowledge and improve our clinical skills. While my passion is dental hygiene, we were also able to provide sealants and SDF and assist the dentists with many restorative treatments and extractions.
On the first day at the clinic, I was amazed by the sight of so many children eagerly waiting for us to arrive. At that moment, I realized this would be a week I would never forget. The children greeted us with warmth and enthusiasm each day, often running up to hug us. Our time there was marked by exceptional teamwork as we communicated and collaborated to provide the best care possible. While I had the privilege of assisting the dentists, much of my time was spent doing what I love most: performing dental hygiene procedures.
As I worked with each patient, I was deeply moved by the strength and resilience of these children. Their courage and spirit were truly inspiring. Reflecting on this experience, I noticed a newfound confidence in my ability to deliver dental care compassionately and precisely. Not only did my clinical skills improve, but my dental health knowledge also expanded significantly. I enjoyed learning how to work with a great team and understanding the efficiency of an organized dental team. Throughout the week, the community's unwavering kindness and support left a lasting impact on me. The ability to interact and enjoy the Honduran culture was very impactful. I feel incredibly blessed to have had the opportunity to meet so many remarkable people and create memories that will stay with me forever.