Last weekend, the COPI dental team conducted clinics at two sites in the Lào Cai Province. Over the course of two days, the team served over 400 children. Our volunteer dentists provided hygiene education, preventative dental treatments, and care for tooth decay.

Day one had an eventful start when one of the transport vehicles broke down. The team had to move all equipment to several smaller vehicles in order to reach the school. Undeterred, our dentists went on to serve 211 patients that day, working twelve hours. Many patients travelled from remote areas to access the clinic, and those who travelled further were given priority.

The COPI dental team in good spirits after moving all of their supplies to a smaller vehicle.

Day two started bright and early with the team leaving the hotel at 6:30 a.m. The clinic was located at Nậm Sài Primary School, where most of the students belong to ethnic minority groups, including the Xá Phó people—one of the smallest ethnic groups in Vietnam.

COPI brings dental clinics to people who may not otherwise have access to dental care.
Waiting in a long line is always more fun with friends!
COPI dentists spend time with patients in a classroom during the clinic.

The need for the clinic was evident with many patients wearing worn out and stained clothing as well as suffering from a large number of dental problems. In fact, before the team departed, the Vice Principal at the school expressed his deep gratitude to the team. He shared that this was the first time any group had come to provide dental care services for the students in this area. He was also very emotional, mentioning that even at over 50 years old, he had never received such dental care himself.

This is why COPI places strong emphasis on personal hygiene education, focusing on simple yet essential daily practices such as proper handwashing, correct toothbrushing, and proper face washing techniques. We believe that teaching good personal hygiene practices is essential to preventing disease.

At the hygiene station, patients first learn to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water
Next up, they will learn proper brushing technique before they visit the dentist
After brushing, patients wash their face and take their hygiene kit!

Each patient at the clinics received a personal hygiene kit consisting of six items: a comb, hand soap, a nail clipper, a face towel, a toothbrush, and toothpaste. In addition to promoting healthy practices, these kits also serve as a daily reminder of the team people who are in their corner.

Children of Peace International is honored to partner with local dentists who volunteer their time for these missions. COPI covers the cost of travel, lodging, and food for the dentists. If you would like to help us continue to provide dental care to people who live in remote areas, please donate today!