Kelly Bird of David Cox Dental Volunteers In Vietnam

I volunteered for one week at the Long Tan Dental Clinic in Vietnam. The team consisted of one Dentist two Hygienists and two dental assistants. The Journey began with a two hour bus ride which lead to the province of Ba Ria a large town situated 90 kilometers south east of Ho Chi Minh City . I was transported each day to the Long Tan Dental Clinic by bus which is about ten kilometers out of Ba Ria. At the clinic approximately 130 three to five year olds and 20 adults were treated in the clinic.

During my time at Long Tan it was very challenging as factors such as the language barrier, humidity and high temperatures affected the materials so setting times were different and also the power failures made it difficult. The children in the clinic presented with very carious teeth and asymptomatic pulp exposures. I saw caries unlike anything I have seen in Australia.

Some reasons why the decay rate is so high is the introduction of foods rich in sugar, lack of access to dental care, and the focus on more urgent health issues such as Hepatitis and Malaria. The aim of the visit was to to place glass ionomer restorations using the Atraumatic Restorative Technique (ART), teeth cleaning and oral hygiene instruction . Also the Dentist was able to do some fillings and extractions.

Being a Dental Hygiene volunteer at the Long Tan Dental clinic was a fantastic experience, and very satisfying knowing that the treament I provided has made a difference to their community. I have memories that will last a lifetime and will volunteer at the clinic in the future. I would also like to thank David Cox Dental, Colgate and Gunz for donating materials for my trip.

Kelly Bird

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