Last month, a group of eight dental education students embarked on a transformative mission trip to Comayagua, Honduras with the non-profit organization, Sonrisas Siempre. Founded with the mission of serving the underserved, the non-profit partnered with the Lions Club of Comayagua to provide much-needed dental care to those in need.

For many students, the decision to join the dental mission trip was fueled by a desire to make a difference. Driven by a passion for travel and a calling to serve others, they seized the opportunity to use their clinical skills to provide care to underserved communities in Comayagua.

"I have always had an affinity for traveling and immersing myself in different cultures," Kaitlynn Siemons, Senior Dental Hygiene student, said. "When I found out that I had an opportunity to go, I could not pass it up. I knew it would be an incredible experience where I would get to use my clinical skills to help others who need it."

Throughout the week-long trip, the students along with dental professionals, served over 350 patients providing a range of dental services to orphanages and adults including cleanings, fillings, sealants, SDS, extractions, and endodontics.

“These students are very prepared before going on this trip,” Dr. Steve Ellinwood, Director of the IU Fort Wayne Clinic and Co-Founder of Sonrisas Siempre, said. “The trip just offers them a different environment from what they are accustomed to. It taught them to be flexible and expand upon their knowledge.”

Reflecting on their past clinic experience, the students felt well-equipped to assist patients in Honduras. Their years of clinical practice has allowed students to hone their skills, enabling them to provide comprehensive care to patients.

 “Without my past clinical experience, I would not have had any confidence while doing what we did in Honduras,” Lexi Parker, Senior Dental Hygiene student, said. “Observing and learning from so many doctors on the trip deepened my knowledge.”

For the participants, the trip was not just about providing dental care; it was about personal and professional growth. It taught them valuable lessons in adaptability, empathy, and the true meaning of service.

Interacting with the children really brightened everyone’s day, Payton Warfield, Senior Dental Hygiene student, said, said.” “My favorite part of the trip was when young patients started the appointment nervous [about] what was to come but by the end, we would receive a hug from them because they were so grateful for the care we were able to give them.”

In the end, it wasn't just about the number of patients treated or the procedures performed; it was about the care that was given and the impact left on the patients.

"I would recommend this trip to other dental students because it will teach you so much," Siemons said. "It showed me that there is a world outside of the clinic in school, a world where our profession is needed and greatly appreciated."