Dental Hygiene Students Aid Children During Nicaraguan Visit

Published 04.01.2013

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Dental hygiene students prepare to board their plane.Kristan S. Delbo (left) and Kathrine E. Dixon, with children during a study-abroad trip to Nicaragua over Spring Break.Dixon with her first patient in NicaraguaBrandie L. Pate (left) and Karlee A. Smith await their patients' arrival.Over Spring Break, six Penn College students enrolled in the four-year dental hygiene: health policy and administration concentration went on a study abroad trip to Managua, Nicaragua, to provide dental work to those who cannot afford such care. Rhonda J. Seebold, part-time instructor of dental hygiene, accompanied students Kathrine E. Dixon, of Houtzdale; Sara E. Larson, of South Williamsport; Brandie L. Pate, of McSherrystown; Helen K. Houdeshell, of Lansdale; Karlee A. Smith, of Mineral Point; and Kristan S. Delbo, of Marion Heights. A valuable learning experience, the seven-day trip presented students with a language barrier and a completely different environment than they are used to in the United States. With the help of Nicaraguan dentists, they provided cleanings, extractions and restorations for more than 150 children.
Photos provided by Kathrine E. Dixon