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Meet Ralph V., a specialty lead dental assistant (DA) who provides compassionate care every day in his role at . After moving to the United States from the Philippines in 2019, a visit to the dentist inspired Ralph to pursue dental assisting, setting him on a path toward a rewarding career in oral healthcare that now includes serving patients locally and abroad in Guatemala.

A graduate of the Dental Assistant (DA) program at �鶹��ý Career College - San Antonio, Ralph’s journey shows how determination and passion helped him see new possibilities for himself. 

“I’ve learned to always take any opportunity, be confident, and not be afraid of the choices I make, because you never know. They could lead to a brighter future.”

A New Beginning in a New Country

Originally from the Philippines Ralph moved to the U.S. in 2019 and started working in a hospital as a diet clerk, managing patient meals and dietary orders. Not long after his move, the COVID-19 pandemic began, and Ralph found himself navigating life in a new country during an uncertain time. 

He decided to turn this uncertainty into opportunity by exploring his passions and thinking seriously about his future career path.

“I really started to think about what I was going to do during that time,” Ralph says. “This is my new life, this is my new home, and I wanted to be successful. I wanted to be someone.”

It wasn’t until he found himself in a dentist’s chair that he began considering career options in the dental field. He became intrigued by the people who helped support patient care and kept the office running smoothly.

“I knew I didn’t want to be a dentist, so I thought that being one of these people assisting the dentist sounded like a good fit for me,” Ralph says. “I asked some of the people in the office about their roles, and they told me that they went to school for dental assisting."

Ralph researched dental assisting further and discovered the DA program at �鶹��ý San Antonio. Though nervous about taking the next step, he reminded himself that he would never know if it was the right choice unless he tried. 

“After talking with admissions, I decided that dental assisting would be the right fit for me and my lifestyle. I applied, got accepted, and not long after that my journey in dental assisting began,” Ralph says.

Finding His Path at �鶹��ý

Ralph enrolled in the Dental Assistant program at �鶹��ý’s San Antonio campus, during the height of the pandemic. Classes were online at first, but eventually students transitioned to in-person learning and labs. 

The hands-on experience Ralph gained through the program proved invaluable. By the time he reached his externship, he felt prepared for the realities of working as a dental assistant, from handling instruments to patient interaction.

"I'm so lucky that I went to �鶹��ý because they taught me how to be a great dental assistant,” Ralph says. “They pushed me to do more and get experience so that one day when I’m in the field, I could apply what I learned and feel ready.”

While in the program, Ralph learned about the  opportunity from the . He invested time in the scholarship application, went through an interview process with the foundation, and was excited when he was selected. 

Through the scholarship program, he gained financial support, mentorship, on-the-job training, and confidence in his decision to pursue dental assisting.

“�鶹��ý gave me a great opportunity to start new career in the United States, and the scholarship helped open the door as well,” Ralph explains. “It was motivating for me because out of all the applicants, I was one of the few students who were selected to be scholars. It made me feel like I was on the right path and was right where I was supposed to be.”

From the Classroom to the Clinic

Today, Ralph serves as a traveling orthodontic dental assistant with , where he helps deliver patient-centered care. He supports clinicians by preparing and sterilizing instruments, capturing digital X-rays and scans, and assisting with orthodontic procedures such as bracket bonding, wire changes, and appliance adjustments.

Ralph also helps patients understand the connection between oral health and overall health through the Mouth-Body Connection®, educating them on how conditions in the mouth can impact the rest of the body. Through both clinical support and patient education, Ralph contributes to creating a positive patient experience and helping patients commit to the best possible treatment outcomes.

“I chose orthodontics as a specialty because I love seeing the transformation and working with the patients from the beginning to end of their journey,” Ralph says. “It’s heartwarming to see the patient become so happy with their smile, and that’s what gives me passion to do this job.”

One of the most meaningful parts of Ralph’s career has been the opportunity to serve beyond the practice. Through volunteer opportunities organized by PDS Health, he traveled to Guatemala to support efforts focused on expanding access to care.

During these trips, Ralph worked alongside integrated teams at the PDS Health Foundation Clínica Dental in Xenacoj to provide donated dental treatment to patients in underserved communities, many of whom face significant barriers to oral healthcare. The clinic’s efforts help deliver immediate care and ongoing support through year-round services and education centered on the Mouth-Body Connection®. 

“I’ve helped educate people about oral health and assisted with treatments like extractions and restorations. It’s amazing to be a part of,” says Ralph.

Growing up in a country where dental care isn’t always accessible, he understands what it means to receive treatment that might otherwise be out of reach. 

“In the Philippines dental care is a luxury, not a necessity,” Ralph explains. “That’s why I want to help in this way, because I can see myself one day going back to the Philippines and helping to improve oral health the same way we do in Guatemala.”

Beyond the Chair: Soft Skills Make Great Dental Assistants

Dental assistants do more than support dental procedures; they create comfort, ease anxiety, and help each patient feel cared for during every step of the visit. Having these soft skills as a DA can elevate both patient experiences and team efficiency:

• Empathy: Recognizing and responding to patients’ fears or discomfort with compassion.
• Communication: Explaining procedures clearly and ensuring patients understand aftercare instructions.
• Attention to Detail: Maintaining accuracy in charting, instrument prep, and infection control to support quality care.
• Teamwork: Collaborating seamlessly with dentists, hygienists, and office staff to keep the practice running smoothly.
• Organization: Balancing patient flow, scheduling, and equipment readiness to create a calm, efficient environment.
• Professionalism: Projecting confidence and respect to help patients feel safe and supported during treatment.

A Journey Defined by Determination

From an uncertain start in a new country to a rewarding career as a dental assistant, Ralph’s story serves as a reminder that taking chances can help you find your purpose. His journey shows how determination, education and mentorship helped him see new possibilities for himself. Ralph’s experience is his own, and career outcomes can vary based on individual circumstances, location, and employer needs.

Picturing yourself training for a career like Ralph's where you can make an impact? Consider taking the next step by exploring our Dental Assistant program at �鶹��ý, where you'll learn from experienced faculty and gain hands-on career training. Contact our admissions team or schedule a tour to learn more and begin your journey.