A Tribute to My Dental Mentor: Dr. Ray Moncada
May 2nd, 2026
It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of the untimely passing of Dr. Ray Moncada, a mentor whose impact on my life and career was profound.
Not many people know this, but I first met Ray when I was 21 years old—a college senior and pre-dental student. My mom encouraged me to shadow someone outside the family before applying to dental school and introduced me to Ray’s office.
From the very beginning, something just clicked. He was easygoing, quick with a joke, but when it was time to work, he was completely locked in—focused, thorough, and precise. He had this way about him: incredibly smart, sharp, but never intimidating.
I sat across from him for two years, just watching and learning. Not just dentistry, but how to treat people. How to talk to patients. How to carry yourself. How to make the hard decisions that come with running a practice.
This year marks my 21st year as a general dentist. It’s been 26 years since I first walked into his office. And when I look back at who I am as a dentist today—how I speak to patients, how I treat my team, how I approach my work—it all traces back to those early days with Ray.
The truth is, growing up in my mom’s office, I didn’t pay much attention. I was the dentist's kid in the back eating snacks. Don’t get me wrong—my mom was my biggest inspiration to becoming a dentist—but it was Ray who was the one who gave me my first real look at what dentistry actually is.
Even in dental school, when I had questions—especially about gum health and how it connects to everything we do—I would reach out to him. He always made time. Always. He didn’t have to, but he did.
After I graduated, I opened my practice just a block away from his. Over the years, I referred patients to many specialists. But when someone was unsure about a perio referral, when they really wanted to make sure they were doing the right thing, I would tell them: go see Ray.
Because I trusted him completely.
We’d run into each other every few months—CE courses, CPR trainings, different dental events. And every time, it felt the same. No ego, no distance—just the same Ray. Kind, approachable, and genuine.
A few years ago, he invited me to give a continuing education lecture for the Filipino Dental Practioners of California Inc. (FDPCI). That moment meant a lot to me. After all those years of learning from him, I got to stand in front of him and teach. It felt like everything had come full circle.
Ray loved golf. Every year, he’d invite me to play in the FDPCI's annual tournament.
And every year, I’d tell him the same thing—that I’d practice, fix my slice, and join him next time. If you know me, you know I’m terrible at golf. He’d laugh, give me a few tips, and never once made me feel bad about it.
Playing a round of golf with him was always on my list.
But work, the office, my kids, life… it all got in the way.
I really thought we had more time.
His passing truly broke me.
I won’t wait any longer, Ray.
If his life taught me anything, it’s this: don’t assume there’s always more time.
My last lesson from my mentor is simple—do what matters, while you still can.
I’ll miss you.
Rest in peace - Andrew
