A team of volunteer dentists from the United States returned to San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, from January 12 to 16 to provide free dental services to local residents through the Belize Mission Project (BMP).
Working alongside local volunteers and specialists, the team treated hundreds of patients at the San Pedro Lions Den. Services included dental cleanings, fillings and extractions, with a focus on saving teeth and treating infections whenever possible.
The annual dental clinics have been held for more than 30 years. Founded by Dr. Frank Whipps, the Belize Mission Project has delivered dental care to thousands of Belizeans. Organizers confirmed that a second clinic is planned for San Pedro in October.
BMP Director Courtney McFarlin said many specialists were eager to return to the island and support residents who rely on the program. Dr. Keith Paukner noted that the clinic remained busy throughout the week, serving walk-in patients each day.
While partial dentures were not available during this visit, they are expected to be offered during the group’s October return. Paukner also highlighted that several team members have volunteered with BMP for more than two decades, reflecting the group’s long-standing commitment to Belize.
Clinics operated Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a lunch break, and on Friday from 8 a.m. to noon.
The initiative was again supported by former Miss San Pedro 2022–2023 Faith Edgar and local dentist Jorge Mauricio Pleitez, both of whom continue to volunteer their time and expertise.
Beyond dental treatment, BMP volunteers carried out community outreach, distributing items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, T-shirts and toys, and providing brief education sessions on oral hygiene and preventive care. During this trip, the team also extended services to residents in Caye Caulker and Mahogany Heights.
Patients were encouraged to brush twice daily and seek dental checkups twice a year when possible. The Belize Mission Project thanked supporters and confirmed preparations are underway for its return to San Pedro later this year.
