Dental Hygiene Education in Mexico

A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health in 2023 reported that Mexico is in the higher frequency range in dental cavities and decay, especially within disadvantaged populations. More than 84% of the Mexican population has some form of tooth decay and more than 55% of adults aged 65-74 lack the ability to close their upper teeth correctly upon the lower teeth. They found that there were more than two untreated cavities per individual and a higher prevalence in rural areas.

The researchers concluded it is crucial to generate prevention and treatment strategies and collaborative projects to promote better oral health conditions across the Mexican population.

Our work with the community of Cozumel is not moving as rapidly as we would like, but this article shows we are needed!

We will keep on offering our presentations to the youth of Cozumel until all have been trained and understand the importance of proper oral hygiene.

We appreciate the 25 sets of dental materials and useful coloring diagrams provided by America’s Toothfairy Foundation. Our students enjoyed them!

• Coloring Sheet in Spanish (PDF)
  
• Coloring Sheet in English (PDF)
  

Thanks to you, our donors, we are continuing to provide workshops to students in Cozumel, Mexico.

We redirected our efforts to the local CETMAR high schools for now. These are the schools that students can attend and learn a trade as they finish their high school education. Usually these students come from low-income families where the parents and students are aware that they will not afford the university tuition.

The response has been fantastic. These students know now that with prevention now it will save them both money and physical pain in the future.

With Coca-Cola being the beverage of choice for all Mexicans, female and male, it is critical that they brush to prevent the decay caused from the sugar.

From the beginning of this program every attendee to our workshops has been given top-of-the-line toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss. These products will last them months and allow them to develop the habits we want them to carry forward for a lifetime. it is more expensive per student, but we know it is worth it.

We appreciate you as look forward to 2024!