Anne Contreras, CDA, COA, RDA, OA, M.Ed.
Dental Assisting Professor. Program Director and Department Chair.

E-mail Anne Contreras

Professor Contreras has been in the dental profession for approximately 29 years. She received her Associates of Science Degree in Dental Assisting from Cypress College, CTE Teaching Credential from University of San Diego, earned her Baccalaureate Degree in Sociology from Chapman University and was awarded her Master's Degree in Education from the University of San Diego. 

Ms. Contreras has taught at several private colleges, high schools, adult education and community college dental assisting programs for over 19 years and brings best practices in her classroom. She teaches engaging courses in dental materials, introduction and advanced chairside techniques, orthodontic assisting, coronal polishing, infection control, pit and fissure sealants, and ultrasonic scaling. In addition to her passion of teaching students, she is also a volunteer chairside orthodontic assistant at a private practice and BLS Health Care Provider CPR Instructor for the American Heart Association. She is a member of several dental and teacher associations and gives back to the community by participating at free clinics.

She is a previous Subject Matter Expert, writing and editing the written portion of the Registered Dental Assisting examination and served her final term as Chair on the Dental Board of California, representing dental assistants. Currently, Professor Contreras is a Subject Matter Expert in Orthodontics with the Dental Assisting National Board and a program site visitor for the Commission on Dental Accreditation.

"Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today. Also, investment in knowledge pays the best interest." 

Marisol Saucedo, R.D.A., C.D.A., B.S. 
Dental Assisting Instructor

E-mail Marisol Saucedo

Marisol Saucedo is a highly experienced Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) and Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) with 32 years of experience in the field. She is also certified as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant.

Marisol has earned an AA degree in Dental Assisting from Cerritos College and a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Studies: Vocational Arts from CSULB. She has been teaching part-time at Cerritos College for 23 years.

Teresa Hurtado, R.D.A., C.D.A., B.A.
Dental Assisting Instructor

E-mail Teresa Hurtado

Mrs. Hurtado has been a Registered Dental Assistant for 20+ years. She has worked in General practices, orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry offices, in addition to 16+ years of teaching experience. She received her Teaching Credential in Career Technical Education from The Commission on Teaching Credentials of California in Health Science and Medical Terminology. Mrs. Hurtado earned her Bachelor's of Arts degree in Career and Technical Education from California State University, San Bernardino. Mrs. Hurtado enjoys teaching Dental Assisting to her students and inspiring others to enjoy their dental careers.

Jessica Kelly, RDH, RDA, CDA

Jessica Kelly has dedicated over a decade to dentistry. She began her journey as a dental assistant in 2013 and later completed her Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene in 2018. Jessica’s career revolves around guiding patients toward optimal oral health through preventive dentistry. Her passion extends beyond patient care—she actively educates and inspires future dental health professionals. Jessica Kelly remains committed to supporting students on their dental field journey.

Ernesto Dominguez, R.D.A, C.D.A., B.A

Mr. Dominguez has been in the dental field for 11 year performing various roles such as dental administrator and chairside assisting. He has an Associates Degree from Fullerton College and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from California State University Fullerton.

Mr. Dominguez enjoys the opportunity to help students achieve their career goals and become a professional.

Vanessa Aguilar

Mrs. Aguilar has been a Registered Dental Assistant for 25+ years. She has worked in General practices, orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry offices. Mrs. Aguilar has 14+ years of teaching experience; in addition she is also a Certified Dental Assistant through DANB and a licensed CPR Instructor through the American Heart Association. Mrs. Aguilar received her Teaching Credential in Career Technical Education from The Commission on Teaching Credentials of California in Health Science and Medical Terminology. She has earned her bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Westcliff University, Irvine. Mrs. Aguilar is a member of the California Association of Dental Assisting Teachers, and the American Dental Assistant Association, she has a passion for teaching and is committed to creating a supportive learning environment for her students.

Theresa Burk, CDA, RDA, BS
Dental Assisting Instructor

Ms. Burk has been part of the dental profession for over 30 years. She earned her Associate of Science Degree in Dental Assisting from Chaffey College and later completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Grand Canyon University. In addition to teaching, she continues to work in pediatric dentistry, maintaining her connection to clinical practice.

She is proud to serve at Cerritos College and enjoys mentoring future dental professionals as they begin their journey into the field. 

Erin Valdez
Dental Programs Assistant

Erin is our dental assisting programs assistant for both dental assisting and dental hygiene departments. She has several years of experience as a dental assistant and front office managing; as well as insurance billing. Combined with her experience, rapport with our students, and her positive personality, Erin is a wonderful addition to our team.