Images released this Saturday by independent journalist José Luis Tan Estrada expose the severe deterioration of the Garrido Dental Clinic in Camagüey. The photographs reveal rusted dental units, severely stained trays, instruments on corroded surfaces, and a sink drain destroyed by corrosion.
Shared on his Facebook profile under the series #TanteandoCuba, the images depict an antiquated dental unit covered in grime, with barely recognizable control panels and neglected instrument hoses.
Another photo shows gloves, dental tools, and materials placed on a tray marked by dark stains and clear signs of corrosion, in what should be a strictly aseptic environment.
The sink in the facility is shown with a drain that is completely corroded, exhibiting reddish-brown rust, a detached piece, and accumulated dirt in the central hole.
What worsens the situation is that, according to several commenters on the post, the Garrido Clinic is reputed to be one of the best in the province and the only one with a stable electrical supply, making it the sole location for nighttime dental emergencies in the city.
"But that clinic is among the best, the professors are excellent, and they have electricity to work, unfortunately, that's not the case elsewhere," a user commented.
Tan Estrada responded firmly: "But one fact does not negate the other."
A citizen who visited the emergency services about two months ago described a chaotic experience: "The light bulb didn't work, so I had to use my phone... The dental drill's water pressure couldn't be adjusted and was maxed out, so every half second, it had to be stopped, quite an ordeal."
Another user who worked at the clinic attempted to provide context by explaining that the stains on the chairs are caused by solutions and medications like eugenol, and that "some stains can't be removed, not even with bleach." Nonetheless, she acknowledged that daily cleaning is a responsibility not being fulfilled.
Several commenters warned that Garrido's case isn't the worst. "If you see the one in Ciego de Ávila," one wrote. Another was more direct: "That's just the dental clinic; go to the provincial hospital, and you'll see things."
This complaint adds to a series of reports on the sanitary deterioration of the Provincial Hospital of Camagüey, which in recent months has been criticized for rodents, stagnant water, flooded basements, and mold-covered walls in the Observation Room.
In May, the Perinatal Care Room of the Maternal Hospital was documented being used as a parking area for electric motorcycles.
Nationally, dental care faces a structural crisis involving out-of-service compressors without replacement parts, essential for supporting dozens of dental chairs, and the closure of 45 dental clinics between 2010 and 2024.
The Minister of Public Health, José Ángel Portal Miranda, admitted in February to the Associated Press that the Cuban healthcare system was "on the brink of collapse" and that the situation could endanger lives.
Understanding the Crisis in Cuban Dental Clinics
What issues were highlighted by the photos of the Garrido Dental Clinic?
The photos revealed rusted dental units, severely stained trays, instruments on corroded surfaces, and a sink drain destroyed by corrosion.
Why is the Garrido Clinic considered important despite its condition?
The Garrido Clinic is considered one of the best in the province due to its stable electricity supply, making it the only facility for nighttime dental emergencies in the city.
What broader issues does the Cuban healthcare system face?
Cuba's healthcare system is facing a structural crisis with out-of-service compressors lacking replacement parts, affecting dental clinics, and the closure of multiple clinics over recent years.