Dental Mission Trip *Thanksgiving 2023*

Katrina Barnard Start Date: Apr 25, 2023 - End Date: Nov 30, 2023
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Professional Development
  • Volunteer Trip
  • Cusco, Peru

My Travel Story

by: Katrina Barnard Start Date: Apr 25, 2023 - End Date: Nov 30, 2023
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Professional Development
  • Volunteer Trip
Hello, World! My name is Katrina and I am a Registered Dental Hygienist in Charleston, SC. I have been given the fantastic opportunity through International Volunteer HQ to travel to Cusco, Peru in the Fall of 2023. There, I will volunteer my dental knowledge and skills to aid the local community in achieving overall oral health!

It wasn’t until I was in school for Dental Hygiene that the importance of flossing clicked for me. I knew I was supposed to do it, but just didn’t understand why. Once I was explained “the why” behind it, I was able to make the connection of how instrumental oral hygiene education can be in preventing many painful oral health issues. Since graduating in 2019, it has been my privilege to serve my community through providing detailed cleanings, as well as an earful of relevant dental tips and information to promote their overall health.

Many indigenous Peruvians suffer from untreated dental disease and limited knowledge of good dental hygiene habits. Preventive care and water fluoridation are non-existent in parts of Peru. In a study from the Annals of Global health it was revealed that 85.6% of children from ages 6–11 years have active carious lesions. Much of the dental treatment sought out is primarily for emergency extractions. In turn, there is a very negative stigma/fear that surrounds the dental field. It is my goal to slowly but surely change this stigma through providing exceptional cleanings, educating the community on useful tools to prevent disease and maintain health, and advocating for regular preventive care.

I would love to raise enough money to cover the overall cost of this trip, as well as donate any additional proceeds to the local community. I appreciate the support!


  • Cusco, Peru

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