Joel Silva BS-CTE, RDA, CDA

Joel Silva serves as the Program Director of the Dental Assisting Program at Cypress College, where he is dedicated to preparing future dental professionals through excellence in education, mentorship, and clinical training. With more than 14 years of experience in general dentistry, oral surgery, and periodontics, he brings extensive industry knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom.

Mr. Silva’s journey into dental assisting began during high school through the Regional Occupational Program (ROP) Dental Assisting Program. Recognizing the life-changing impact that Career Technical Education can have on students, he has become a passionate advocate for workforce education and student success.

After graduating from Cypress College, Mr. Silva transferred to California State University, Long Beach, where he earned a Designated Subjects Teaching Credential in Dental Services in 2002. He continued his professional development through advanced coursework and educational leadership training, later earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Career and Technical Education from California State University, Sacramento in 2016.

Mr. Silva began his teaching career in 2001 as a dental assisting instructor for the Santa Ana Unified School District while also teaching part-time for various Regional Occupational Programs throughout Southern California. In 2005, he returned to Cypress College as an adjunct instructor and continued teaching at multiple community colleges across Orange County and the Inland Empire. In 2016, he joined Cypress College as a full-time faculty member, and in 2020, he was appointed Program Director of the Dental Assisting Program.

As an educator and lifelong learner, Mr. Silva is committed to fostering a learning environment that emphasizes technical excellence, ethical practice, professionalism, and compassionate patient care. He works closely with industry partners, advisory board members, and the dental community to ensure that students are prepared to meet the evolving demands of the profession and to utilize the latest advancements in dental technology.

Under his leadership, the Cypress College Dental Assisting Program strives to develop highly skilled graduates who demonstrate integrity, clinical competence, effective communication, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Mr. Silva remains dedicated to empowering students to achieve their educational goals and to become exceptional members of the dental profession and the communities they serve.