Prosthodontics alums reconnect at ACP Houston Chapter event
Published: October 02, 2025 by Kyle Rogers
More than 30 alumni, residents, faculty, and Houston-area prosthodontists gathered for the Prosthodontic Advanced Education Alumni Reunion and American College of Prosthodontists (ACP) Houston Chapter Affinity Continuing Dental Education Program, hosted by UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry on Sept. 25 at The ‘401 in Bellaire, Texas.
The evening featured networking, dinner, and professional development, beginning with a reception from 6 to 7:15 p.m., followed by educational presentations from 7:15 to 9:30 p.m.
The program featured three sessions highlighting mentorship, resident education, and professional growth within the field of prosthodontics.
Professor Donald Belles, DDS, MS, who directed the Advanced Education in Prosthodontics Program from 2009 to 2022, opened with “American Board of Prosthodontics and Mentoring,” a 45-minute session outlining the value of board certification and pathways toward achieving it. He discussed current criteria and the mentorship model designed to support candidates preparing for the American Board of Prosthodontics examination.
The second presentation, “A Day in the Life of a Current Resident,” was led by Yi-Chen (Jesse) Chen, DDS, and Shih-Wei (Jennifer) Wang, DDS. The two third-year residents shared insights into the advanced prosthodontics training experience at the School of Dentistry, emphasizing the integration of new technologies, board preparation, and post-graduation opportunities.
The program concluded with “Practice with Purpose: My Path from UTSD to Private Prosthodontics in Puerto Rico,” presented by alumnus Victor Rivera Mendez, DMD, MS ’18. Rivera Mendez reflected on his transition from residency to private practice, offering candid lessons on establishing a practice, building a patient base, and balancing clinical and business responsibilities.
In addition to the continuing education sessions, attendees participated in a brief organizational meeting. Ruben Sauceda, DDS, MS, was introduced as the incoming director of the ACP Houston Chapter, with his tenure beginning in January 2026. Johanna Yepez, DDS, MS ’13, volunteered to serve as president of the alumni organization, with plans to reconnect alumni and organize future gatherings in 2026.
The event, held in conjunction with Generations Conference 2025, offered participants continuing education credit and an opportunity to strengthen professional and personal connections within the prosthodontic community.