Chihuauwa, Mexico

Dr. Maria’s first mission trip was to Copper Canyon in Chihuauwa, Mexico in 2008. There, she joined a team of one other dentists, a hygienist, and a volunteer who was briefed by Dr. Maria in dental assisting. The trip focused on aiding the children of the orphanage and school in the area. Many of the children had to travel by foot, there was a dormitory set up by volunteers to assist the children for the week. Most of the procedures performed that week were cleanings, sealants, and extractions.

The mission took place in Copper Canyon, Mexico. The team traveled to the rural town in the mountains to aid the children of the surrounding towns and local orphanage.

The mission team had to make due with available resources and portable equipment, setting up their own clinic at the orphanage.

Children lined up at the clinic daily for a week to have cleanings, sealants, extractions, and any other dental work needed.

Some children had never visited a dentist before the mission team visited Copper Canyon. The were often nervous and apprehensive.

Although the clinic primarily served children, they opened there doors to anyone who needed dental services.

Many of the children warmed up to the team and Dr. Maria by the end of the trip. They were very grateful and happy the team came so far to help them.

The dental mission team included two dentists, two hygienists, and one volunteer and nurse turned dental assistants.