Father-son duo performs mercy dental work in Honduras

Metro Wire Staff

Local endodontist Dr. Thomas Westrick and his son, Benjamin, spent July 15-23 volunteering with the Medical Eye and Dental International Care Organization (MEDICO) in Copan Ruinas, Honduras.

The father-son duo primarily performed extractions but also provided restorations and dental hygiene services.

Many of the patients had never seen a dentist or a toothbrush before, according to Dr. Westrick.

Despite the challenging rainy season weather, which included nighttime temperatures of 85 degrees with 80-90 percent humidity, the Westricks found the experience fulfilling.

An unexpected visitor, a scorpion, was spotted on the clinic wall, adding a bit of excitement to the week. he said.

MEDICO deploys short-term medical and dental teams consisting of volunteers and local healthcare professionals. It provides primary health care in poor, remote communities where such care would otherwise be unavailable.