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At TrueCare Vista Way Dental, Dr. David Vasquez doesn’t just provide dental care; he helps restore dignity, confidence, and comfort to every patient who walks through the door. His journey from a childhood spent shadowing his mother in a Medi-Cal dental clinic to his current role at one of TrueCare’s newest, state-of-the-art facilities is one rooted in compassion, family legacy, and a calling to serve.
In this spotlight, Dr. Vasquez shares how his upbringing shaped his professional path, why he returned to community health, and what makes San Diego dental careers at a non-profit organization like TrueCare both meaningful and fulfilling.
Dental Jobs in San Diego: Dr. David Vasquez’s Journey
Dr. Vasquez’s story is more than a résumé; it’s a return to purpose. His path winds through private practice, personal growth, and, ultimately, a decision to serve where he’s needed most. For him, community dentistry isn’t just a career; it’s a calling shaped by experience, empathy, and a deep understanding of the people behind each smile.
So, what drew him back to community dental care, and why does it continue to inspire his work every day? Find out below in his own words!
What Inspired You to Work in Community Dental Care?
For Dr. David Vasquez, his high chair was practically a dental chair. His mother was a Medi-Cal dentist, and he got his first glimpse into the profession by working alongside her.
“I come from generations of dentists in my family, and the first thing that got me into dentistry was working with my mom in a Medi-Cal office,” Dr. Vasquez said. “But I transitioned to a private clinic and just realized that my passion was serving communities that are too often underprivileged. It kind of brought me full circle back to my youth, and now I’m here at a community dental clinic with TrueCare, where I have the opportunity to change lives and make a difference in those communities,” he said.
Those early experiences exposed him to both the technical skills of dentistry and the emotional weight of helping underserved patients.
“I developed a great deal of compassion for these people,” Dr. Vasquez said, reflecting on what resonated with him about doing this kind of work. “I just felt the gratitude that they had for dental treatment. There’s something special about it. When people are that thankful, they radiate it, and it almost becomes palpable. It just felt really good to help people,” he said.
Though he spent time in private practice, the sense that something was missing eventually pulled him back to his roots. “I needed to provide care for the underserved. That brought me back to community dentistry,” he explains.
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Why Is Dental Care Important in Underserved Communities?
According to Dr. Vasquez, one of the biggest barriers to oral health in vulnerable populations is a lack of awareness.
“Dental care is not often seen as a priority,” Dr. Vasquez noted. “It’s important to really teach people how crucial this care is to the quality of their life,” he said.
That’s where patient education becomes just as important as treatment. Through outreach and education, he empowers patients with the knowledge to improve their health long after they leave the exam room.
“When you work with these communities, you see where education plays a huge part in trying to improve your patients’ oral health,” Dr. Vasquez said. “I’ve seen firsthand how teaching patients what good oral hygiene is can affect their overall well-being,” he said.
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What’s it Like to Work as a Dentist at TrueCare?
When Dr. Vasquez joined TrueCare full-time in 2023, he immediately recognized something special.
“There’s so much care in helping us grow,” Dr. Vasquez said. “You really feel like they’re as invested in your personal and professional development as you are,” he added.
He was also thrilled to be placed at the brand-new Vista Way Dental office, which is a modern community dental clinic equipped with advanced technology.
“I feel so lucky to work here because, in our field, the tools you have the chance to work with can really impact how much you learn and develop,” Dr. Vasquez shared. “We’re offering state-of-the-art care, and all patients deserve that. They deserve the best, and we can only provide them with that if we have the best equipment,” he explained.
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How Does TrueCare Foster a Supportive Dental Team Culture?
For Dr. Vasquez, what truly sets TrueCare apart is the sense of family among the staff.
“We’re not just coworkers; we’re team players,” Dr. Vasquez said. “If someone’s behind, we help each other out. One thing that’s really remarkable here is that you always have support, no matter what you need,” he said.
One story that sticks with him is the willingness of front office staff like Isabel to jump in and lend a hand.
“It truly feels like a family here – that’s the kind of support everyone is willing to offer,” Dr. Vasquez shared. “If someone’s behind, no one hesitates to jump in to help. Isabel’s a great example of that. She always goes above and beyond and shows up early to make sure things are done because she knows we’re working toward the same goal and pursuing the same mission. That’s the kind of support we have here – support that’s strengthened by a common cause,” he explained.
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What Professional Resources and Benefits Do TrueCare Dentists Receive?
Another key difference Dr. Vasquez noticed was the emphasis on professional standards and education.
“At TrueCare, we’re meticulous with record-keeping,” Dr. Vasquez said. “That wasn’t something I always saw in private practice – I’ve really learned that comprehensive records result in more comprehensive care,” he added.
He’s also grateful for the comprehensive benefits package—resources that aren’t always available in the private sector.
“One of the things I’ve noticed working here is that they definitely offer a lot more benefits,” Dr. Vasquez said. “They offer paid time off, a stipend for professional development, they help with retirement – it makes you feel like you’re more than just an employee,” he said.
From benefits to support from leadership, Dr. Vasquez believes that it all translates to a rare environment where everyone, from staff to patients, feels valued and heard.
“I joined TrueCare last year, and it’s incredible how much they care and help us grow to provide great care to our patients – I mean, it’s in the name. They truly care,” Dr. Vasquez said. “There’s so much guidance, and you will have support in all aspects,” he said.
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How Can Dentists Carry On a Legacy of Compassionate Care?
Ultimately, Dr. Vasquez’s drive and aspirations are informed by his experiences working with underserved populations from the outset.
“When I started my journey as a dentist, the patients I helped first were Medi-Cal patients, and that’s where I think my passion lies,” Dr. Vasquez said. “I’m just really excited to continue my journey, and this is where my heart feels best,” he said.
However, his journey is also a deeply personal one. After his mother passed away, he felt compelled to carry on her mission of caring for underserved patients.
“My mom recently passed away, and I feel like I’m carrying the torch and continuing her legacy in helping people who need it. She always reminded me that patients aren’t just objects in a chair; they’re people,” Dr. Vasquez reflected. “Treating them with empathy and making them feel welcome is just as important as the clinical care,” he said.
His commitment to human-centered public health dentistry is part of the reason he feels so connected to TrueCare’s mission. “This is where my heart feels the best,” Dr. Vasquez said. “That’s the best way to put it,” he said.
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What Makes the Team Dynamic at TrueCare Vista Way Special?
Every great team has someone who keeps it all together, and for Dr. Vasquez, that person is Areseli, the Vista Way clinic manager.
“She’s the glue,” Dr. Vasquez said with a smile. “She keeps things in check and balances efficiency with making work fun. That’s important in a workplace – it makes it feel less like work when you enjoy coming in every day,” he added.
He said that the team also bonds over shared culture and traditions, especially potlucks.
“We’ve got strong Filipino and Mexican influences,” Dr. Vasquez said. “Food is a big part of how we connect – food is a great way that our whole team bonds. If you like to eat good food and change lives, this is a great place to work,” he smiled.
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How Do TrueCare Dentists Bring Positivity and Joy to Patient Care?
If you ask Dr. Vasquez about his “superpower,” he’ll tell you it’s his energy.
“I bring the positive vibes!” Dr. Vasquez laughed.
That spirit of joy is contagious. One of his favorite examples is Rosie, who sings to pediatric patients to help calm their nerves.
“It’s those extra touches that make a difference,” Dr. Vasquez said.
How Do Community Dentists Make a Meaningful Impact?
From alleviating dental pain to watching patients smile with confidence again, Dr. Vasquez finds pride in every moment.
“This isn’t just cosmetic work,” Dr. Vasquez said. “It’s real care. We’re helping people who need it most. Seeing a patient who is in pain and, by the end of their appointment, no longer feels that pain is extremely rewarding. Sometimes, it’s almost like you can literally watch that discomfort and pain melt off them,” he said.
Why Should You Consider a Career in Community Dentistry?
For those considering a move into community health, Dr. Vasquez has simple advice: “Do it if you truly want to help people.”
And with TrueCare, he says, the rewards are both personal and professional. “You get great benefits, a supportive team, and the chance to make a real difference,” Dr. Vasquez said.
Are You Inspired by Dr. David Vasquez’s Words and Journey? Apply for Dental Jobs in San Diego at TrueCare Ramona Today!
Dr. David Vasquez’s path to TrueCare was paved by family, faith, and a fierce dedication to serving others. Today, he brings that legacy to life every day at Vista Way Dental, where compassion meets innovation and teamwork drives impact. Whether you are looking for a dental hygienist job, dental assistant position, or dentist role, we may have the opportunity you’ve been waiting for to instill your career with newfound purpose.
Interested in joining a community where your work truly matters? Learn more about San Diego dental careers and care at TrueCare.
