Poor oral health and limited access to care are the daily reality in the communities of El Rama, Muelle de los Bueyes, Bluefields and Kukra Hill in Nicaragua. California-based pediatrician Dr. Gina Johnson has participated in five mission trips to these communities under the auspices of International Ministries. On her most recent trip, Dr. Johnson brought 800 applications of Embrace Fluoride Varnish donated by Pulpdent.

The communities served by International Ministries suffer from severe dental caries, poor nutrition and a variety of other health concerns. Access to healthcare is extremely limited and community members travel for miles on foot and motorized bicycle to receive primary care, wellness exams, dental screenings and fluoride varnish treatments from Dr. Johnson and her team of clinicians. Community members were very receptive to receiving varnish treatment and expressed that Embrace had a much more pleasant taste than other varnishes they had used in the past.

The purpose of these mission trips is to educate community members about systemic health. Dr. Johnson addresses the root causes of disease and illness, and explains the connection between oral healthcare, good hygiene and overall health.