EL PASO, Texas—El Paso Community College (EPCC) and Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso (TTUHSC El Paso) have formed an innovative partnership that brings together dental hygiene and dental students to provide comprehensive oral health care.
During a clinic held yesterday in El Paso, dental hygiene students provided preventive care, including screenings and cleanings. This was followed by more advanced evaluations and restorative treatments from third-year dental students from TTUHSC El Paso.
EPCC Dental Hygiene Instructor Kathryn Villapana highlighted the benefits of this collaboration, emphasizing that it ensures patient care goes beyond prevention.
“It’s wonderful to be able to provide comprehensive dental care,” Villapana told EPCC News, noting that many patients might otherwise miss out on necessary follow-up treatments.
The project also provides valuable learning opportunities for students. Blanca Castillo, a former EPCC instructor and current third-year dental student at TTUHSC, explained that the collaboration helps bridge the gap between preventive and restorative care. “This collaboration has enhanced the learning experience and deepened understanding of the various roles that contribute to oral health,” Castillo said.
This program demonstrates how academic collaboration can improve patient outcomes while providing students with practical, comprehensive oral health training.
