Access to dental care is a key component to a good health. In most cases, tooth decay and gum disease left untreated can have serious implications for long-term health and well being. Many school and work hours per year are lost due to dental-related illness. Unfortunately, many families don’t have dental health coverage or the means to pay for it. This is where PADA's community clinics come into play. PADA, as well as other nonprofits, often find themselves filling in the gaps where government and private enterprises cannot.
Peru
Since its inception, PADA has conducted annual dental missions in some of the most remote and underserved communities in Peru, providing thousands of needy families with dental prevention education and treatment services. Some of the specific communities we have served in Peru include the following: Ayacucho in 2006 and 2007, Cuzco in 2007, Caraz in 2008, Calca in 2010, Pruno in 2011, Huama in 2012-2013. Through our Dental Health USA Initiative, we plan to use our mobile clinic to provide high quality, culturally competent and low-cost services to underserved communities in Santa Ana, CA.
On August 22, 2011, PADA also established a community clinic in Cusco, which is managed by Dr. Mely Mayorga and Marianela Tueros, Clinic Coordinator. The treatment rendered at the Cusco PADA Community Dental Clinic includes extractions, dental cleaning, fluoride applications, and fillings. Additionally, oral hygiene education is provided.
U.S.A.