07 April 2026

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Dental Assistants Recognition Week: Q&A with Aldo Becerra

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Dental Assistants Recognition Week is being celebrated from March 1 to 7, 2026, to recognize the important role dental assistants play in providing high-quality patient care. Established by the American Dental Assistants Association, during the first week of March each year – and beyond – we salute their dedication, skills, and contributions to patient care and the dental clinic operations.

Aldo Becerra, a dental assistant supervisor in the UCLA School of Dentistry's Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) Clinic, is among the more than 30 standout DAs working in our School. Aldo took time out of his busy schedule to provide some insights into this dynamic profession.

Q: Can you describe your role as a dental assistant?

A: Dental assistants work chairside with dentists to support patient care and make sure treatments run smoothly. We help maintain infection control standards, prepare instruments, and assist during procedures. We also work with anxious patients to make them feel comfortable and support different departments within the clinic. At UCLA, we also assist residents in programs like AEGD as they complete their training.

Q: How long have you been working as a dental assistant, and what has your career path looked like?

A: I’ve been a dental assistant for about 25 years. Before coming to UCLA, I worked in private practice and also spent five years at the USC School of Dentistry. I’ve been at UCLA for nearly 13 years now, and it’s been a great experience working in an academic setting. 

Q: What training is required to become a dental assistant?

A: Dental assistants go through DA school and receive training in the clinic. We learn about dental instruments, procedures, and radiology. We also maintain certifications such as CPR and Basic Life Support (BLS). There is constant training to keep our skills up to date.

Q: What is one of the most rewarding moments you’ve experienced in your career?

A: One of the most rewarding moments was helping a patient who couldn’t afford a full denture case. Through the clinic, they were able to receive treatment and leave with a better smile. It allowed them to speak more clearly, eat comfortably, and feel less stressed. Seeing how much their self-esteem improved was really meaningful.

Q: What is it like working with residents at UCLA?

A: It’s great to watch residents grow over the year [they spend in the AEGD Clinic]. They come from dental schools all over the United States, and by the time they finish their residency, they’ve gained a lot of experience and confidence. You can really see their speed and skills develop over time. 

Q: Have mentors played a role in your career?

A: Yes, mentors helped guide me early in my career, and that made a big difference. Now I try to do the same for others by helping train new assistants or students in the clinic and taking them under my wing. 

Q: What message would you share with people interested in becoming a dental assistant?

A: You have to love what you do. Dental assisting is about helping patients and supporting the dental team. If you enjoy helping people and improving someone’s oral health and confidence, it can be a very rewarding career.

Author: Rima Ettouri

Source: https://dentistry.ucla.edu/