The week of April 5–11, 2025, Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside helped Global Dental Relief (GDR) bring smiles—and vital dental care—to underserved children in our community. From a temporary clinic set up in the Akumal Community Center, GDR’s volunteer team of dentists—including Seaside Rotarian Julia Buttermore—hygienists, dental assistants, and general volunteers provided free treatment and preventative care to local children and parents, many of whom were receiving professional dental attention for the very first time.
Thanks to careful planning and support from community leaders and our own Seaside Rotarians Lynn Luchs and Vicky Moro, over 250 children from villages and settlements such as Torres de la Paz, El Sauce, and the Puerto Aventuras poblado were transported to the clinic. These communities are part of our ongoing outreach programs, and we were thrilled to help connect them with this life-changing service.
During their visit, each child received a comprehensive exam, a fluoride treatment, oral health education—including essential hygiene lessons—and a brand-new toothbrush to take home. When needed, they also received cleanings, sealants, restorations, and extractions.
Dental issues like infection and chronic pain, which can interfere with sleep, nutrition, classroom learning, and self-esteem, were treated with care and compassion. GDR’s goal is to not only address immediate needs but also to restore children to full, healthy smiles—and to return every two years to continue their care.
The results of the 5-day clinic speak volumes:
- Patients Served: 722
- Exams: 384
- Cleanings: 357
- Fluoride Treatments: 315
- Sealants Applied: 62
- Fillings Completed: 176
- Extractions: 55
Total Value of Care Provided: $145,255 USD
This tremendous effort would not have been possible without the incredible teamwork of community leaders and volunteers. Special thanks go to Carlos and Jade Ventura from El Sauce, Xiomara Jiménez from the Alcaldía of Puerto Aventuras, and Honorina from Torres de la Paz, along with the many parent volunteers who traveled with the children.
Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside is proud to have played a role in this project, aligning with our mission to improve the daily lives of children in our service area. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Global Dental Relief and expanding access to health services across our communities.
