Cuban dentists grace the cover of a prestigious medical magazine in the United States

Cuban dentists are highlighted in an article from Dentaltown for their study on intraoral lipoma. They studied in Cuba, validated their degrees in Puerto Rico, and are now working in Florida, demonstrating talent and perseverance.

Cuban dentists at a scientific event in the healthcare sectorPhoto © Courtesy for CiberCuba

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Cuban dentists Adrián Estopinales Paredes and Aarón Ávila López have been featured on the cover of the renowned American scientific journal Dentaltown.

The study, titled “Clinical Case of Lipoma in the Lower Lip,” was conducted by a team consisting of Cuban doctors and dentists Uzkelia Uzcátegui Moncada and Alice Arroyo-Juliá. All were affiliated with the General Practice Residency (GPR) program at the University of Puerto Rico.

Cover of the magazine Dentaltown, July 2025

Scientific article highlights the talent of Cuban dentists in the United States

The study documents an uncommon case of intraoral lipoma and details its diagnosis, surgical treatment, and histopathological analysis. This publication not only highlights the academic quality of the group of dentists but also places these two Cuban professionals on the radar of the dental medical community in the United States.

The article was selected for the cover of Dentaltown, one of the most influential publications among dentists, healthcare service providers, and manufacturers in the industry.

Access to this editorial space represents a significant achievement for a professional, especially for those who have trained outside of the United States and have succeeded in having their degrees recognized within the American system.

Dr. Adrián Estopinales Paredes

From Cuba to Puerto Rico and now Florida

Adrián Estopinales Paredes graduated from the University of Medical Sciences of Cienfuegos in 2013. He worked as a dental hygienist in Florida and completed his dental residency in Puerto Rico, where he served as chief resident.

Aarón Ávila López, originally from Havana, began his studies at the Faculty of Dentistry in the Cuban capital. He later moved to Mexico, where he completed his degree and specialized in Endodontics before emigrating to the United States. In 2023, he joined the GPR program in Puerto Rico and is also the chief resident.

Both professionals are now getting ready to advance their careers as dental practitioners in the state of Florida, bringing their experience and training to a constantly growing healthcare system.

Dr. Aarón Ávila

The inspiring story of Aarón and his family

CiberCuba had already reported in June on the personal story of dentist Aarón Ávila and his wife, the Mexican doctor Vianeth Velarde, whose family photo celebrating her graduation went viral on social media.

Both managed to revalidate their dental degrees in Puerto Rico, balancing studies, jobs, and raising their children without family support, as they are immigrants.

Dr. Aarón Ávila and his wife, Dr. Vianeth Velarde, along with their children

"The myth that you cannot study to validate your degree while having children or working is just that, a myth. It is possible," Aarón shared in an interview with this outlet.

Despite the challenges, Cubans continue to show that talent, discipline, and the will to succeed know no boundaries. The small achievements outside the island are a testament to what we are capable of when we fight with passion and dignity to transform the future.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Recognition of Cuban Dentists Abroad

Who are the prominent Cuban dentists featured on the cover of Dentaltown magazine?

Cuban dentists Aarón Ávila López and Adrián Estopinales Paredes have been featured on the cover of Dentaltown magazine for their involvement as co-authors in a clinical article regarding an unusual case of intraoral lipoma.

What is the achievement of Aarón Ávila López and Adrián Estopinales Paredes in the field of dentistry?

The achievement of Aarón Ávila López and Adrián Estopinales Paredes is having been co-authors of a clinical article that was featured on the cover of the magazine Dentaltown, highlighting its academic quality and positioning them on the radar of the dental medical community in the United States.

How have these Cuban dentists validated their degrees and practiced in the United States?

Adrián Estopinales Paredes and Aarón Ávila López reaffirmed their titles in Puerto Rico after completing their studies and specializations in other countries. Both participated in the General Practice Residency (GPR) program at the University of Puerto Rico, which allowed them to practice in the United States.

What challenges do Cuban dentists face when trying to practice their profession abroad?

Cuban dentists face the challenge of revalidating their professional qualifications in a foreign system, which entails additional studies and adaptation to a new academic and professional environment, as well as overcoming personal and family obstacles as migrants.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.