Meet an Alum: Dr. Mark Ortega, Class of 2015
Dr. Mark Ortega, Class of 2015, is a Southern California native who was born and raised in Montebello. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from UCLA and went on to receive his doctorate of dental surgery at the UCLA School of Dentistry, where he graduated with honors. During dental school, Dr. Ortega found he enjoyed the interaction and unique experience of treating children. His passion of working with kids led him to choose to further his knowledge by completing a pediatric dentistry residency at the University of Washington and Seattle Children’s Hospital where he received extensive training in hospital dentistry, sedation, and patients with special needs.
Dr. Ortega strives to provide the best care, while building trusting relationships with patients and their families. Away from the office, he has provided care for underserved children on mission trips to Mexico, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic.
UCLA Dentistry recently caught up with Dr. Ortega who shared with us some of his favorite memories while at UCLA:
Q: Why did you choose dentistry & what do you most enjoy about being a dentist?
A: “The combination of the ability to help people and build social relationships first drew me to the profession. After volunteering at community clinics and spending a month shadowing my aunt who is a dentist in Mexico, my decision to pursue a career in dentistry was solidified. In practicing pediatric dentistry, I most enjoy having a positive impact on children’s oral health, all while high-fiving my way through the day.”
Q: In what ways did UCLA Dentistry prepare you for your professional practice and endeavors?
A: “The UCLA School of Dentistry is a world-class institution. Aside from the incredible education, it provided me with great mentors who, to this day, still guide me through my professional career. I always had the desire to teach and with the encouragement from my mentors, became a volunteer clinical faculty member at the dental school. Additionally, I was put in contact with many future colleagues through UCLA. In fact, my first and most recent associateships came from those special connections I made while I was a dental student.”
Q: What do you do when you aren’t practicing dentistry?
A: “My favorite thing to do away from dentistry is scuba diving. I received my license three years ago in Thailand and I try to dive in tropical waters whenever I can. I also enjoy gardening, golfing, and going to sporting events. Go Bruins!”
Q: If you could share one piece of advice to current dental students, what would it be?
A: “Clinic days and exams will fly by and dental school will be done before you know it. Be proactive and take advantage of opportunities to improve yourself both professionally and personally along the way. I also recommend finding ways to help people whenever you can. You will find it rewarding to both yourself and those you help. Always remember that we have the incredible ability to heal and change lives for the better.”
Q: What is one of your fondest memories while you trained at UCLA Dentistry?
A: “I really enjoyed my time at UCLA. One highlight that comes to mind is the Meikai/Asahi University Cultural Student Exchange Program with Japanese dental students. A few friends and I had the opportunity to meet amazing individuals through this program, all while getting to know two outstanding UCLA faculty personally. The relationships with my Japanese friends have lasted to this day and I have had a couple of them stay with me over the past few years. It is a great reminder that dentistry has no borders.”