A group of about 75 individuals from the Opportunity Center for the Homeless experienced a transformation that could alter their lives.
On Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024, the Texas Tech Dental Oral Health Clinic hosted Hopeful Smiles, a cost-free dental screening and cleaning event cosponsored by the Hunt School of Dental Medicine and the Paso del Norte Health Foundation. Made possible by a $15,000 grant from Freeport-McMoRan, the initiative provided empowering oral health care to individuals who often lack access to these services.
Students from the dental school delivered essential dental care to residents who, in many cases, had never visited a dentist before. The Texas Tech Dental Oral Health Clinic, located in the Paso del Norte Health Foundation building, made for a welcoming environment.
For Jose, an Opportunity Center resident, the impact was deeply personal.
“This is my first visit to the clinic, and I’m thankful for the care I’ve received,” Jose said. “The staff has been welcoming and attentive, making me feel comfortable. I’m definitely coming back for my dental cleanings from now on!”
For individuals facing homelessness, oral health is not just about aesthetics; it’s often a barrier to employment and self-esteem. This event not only offered clinical care but also gave patients a renewed sense of hope as they worked toward reintegrating into the workforce and community.
“Oral health is about more than just a smile, it’s about giving someone the confidence to move forward, to interview for a job, or even to look in the mirror and feel proud of who they are,” said Richard Black, dean of the Hunt School of Dental Medicine. “Today, we accomplished something beyond dentistry; we helped restore dignity and hope.”
Community collaboration for a healthier future
The event helped address the unmet health care needs of underserved communities in the El Paso region. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, 34% of adults lack dental insurance. Many low-income individuals and families forgo basic oral care, leading to preventable health issues.
Through a collaborative effort, the Hunt School of Dental Medicine and the Paso del Norte Health Foundation leveraged the grant from Freeport-McMoRan to provide care while training the next generation of dentists to serve low-income communities. The event also addressed long-term challenges in dental care access by connecting aspiring dental professionals with populations in need.
Hopeful Smiles participants came from the Opportunity Center’s Men’s Resource Center, Women’s Resource Center, Willie Sanchez Rosales Family Center and La Casa de Las Abuelitas.
John Martin, deputy director of the Opportunity Center, said he has seen oral health care have an impact beyond a bright smile. He’s witnessed individuals regain their appetites, ambition and confidence.
“One direct result of this program is how it prepares individuals to transition out of homelessness,” Martin said. “A large number of the individuals who stay with us have a large desire to move forward. And together we’re making that possible. We’re incredibly grateful to the Hunt School of Dental Medicine and to Freeport-McMoRan because it’s a shared responsibility.”
Martin Soltero, environmental director at Freeport’s El Paso operations, and engineer Victor Aragon were invited to see Hunt School of Dental Medicine students in action, as they toured the Oral Health Clinic during the event.
“We’re proud to partner with Texas Tech Health El Paso and bring this valuable program to our El Paso community,” Soltero said. “The clinic has done an excellent job helping those who are in need and encouraging them to continue their oral health care which opens the door to employment, education and so many other opportunities.”
Building a foundation for empowerment
The partnership between the Hunt School of Dental Medicine, the Paso del Norte Health Foundation, and the Opportunity Center showcases how collaboration can deliver results for populations that often fall through the cracks. By focusing on preventative care and education, they empower individuals to take charge of their health and future.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of adults over 30 have some form of gum disease, which is preventable with proper care and resources. As the Hunt School of Dental Medicine continues its work in underserved communities, it reinforces its role as a catalyst for change, empowering both patients and providers.
Through the Texas Tech Dental Oral Health Clinic, you can help put hopeful smiles on members of our community who need it the most. Give today or visit ttuhscepimpact.org to learn how you can make an impact with Texas Tech Health El Paso.
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