Sebastián J. Lugo Pizarro

Research Project: Animal Assisted Therapy as a Behavior Management Technique During Dental Treatment in Pediatric Patients: A Crossover Design

• Assisted the principal investigator and dentist during pediatric dental procedures.
• Prepared treatment rooms, instruments, and materials according to study protocols.
• Provided four-handed chairside assistance throughout clinical treatment.
• Ensured compliance with infection prevention and sterilization standards.
• Prepared and positioned pediatric participants for dental treatment.
• Monitored and documented patient behavior and comfort during appointments, as directed by the research protocol.
• Assisted in maintaining patient confidentiality and adherence to research ethics and institutional protocols.
• Collaborated with the research team to ensure consistent implementation of the crossover study procedures.

Volunteer Dental Assistant
Dentistas Misioneros de Puerto Rico – Chimachoy, Guatemala

• Participated in a 3-day humanitarian dental mission providing free dental services to underserved communities in Chimachoy, Guatemala.

Dental Assistant – Pediatric Dental Emergency Service
Hospital Pediátrico Universitario

• Assisted dental residents in the evaluation and management of pediatric dental emergencies.
• Provided chairside assistance during emergency dental procedures using four-handed dentistry techniques.
• Prepared treatment rooms, instruments, and dental materials while maintaining strict infection control and sterilization protocols.
• Assisted with patient assessment, radiographs (if applicable), and clinical documentation.
• Provided support and education to pediatric patients and their families during urgent dental care.

Operating Room Dental Assistant
Hospital Pediátrico Universitario

• Assisted dentists and residents during dental procedures performed in the operating room under general anesthesia.
• Supported the care of medically compromised pediatric patients requiring comprehensive dental treatment.
• Prepared and maintained a sterile surgical field, including instrument setup and sterilization.
• Prepared dental materials and equipment for operative cases.
• Collaborated with dentists, anesthesiologists, nurses, and operating room staff to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care.
• Maintained compliance with hospital infection control and patient safety protocols.

Historian/Webmaster

Functions Dental Assisting Program – University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus
Class of 2021–2022

• Elected to serve on the student executive board as Historian/Webmaster.
• Documented program activities and maintained visual records of class events.
• Assisted with communication and dissemination of information through digital platforms.
• Collaborated with executive board members to support student activities and program initiatives.

University of Puerto Rico, Carolina Campus

• Delivered a virtual presentation to university students about the Dental Assisting Program.
• Discussed the scope of practice, clinical responsibilities, and career opportunities in dental assisting.
• Shared personal experiences and insights to help students understand the profession and educational pathway.
• Answered participant questions and promoted awareness of careers in oral healthcare.

Preventive Clinic Excellence Award 2022 Expanded Functions Dental Assisting

Puerto Rico Pre-dental Association Recognition for commitment, discipline, and excellence.

Certificate of Recognition – University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, School of Health Professions (June 2022)

• Awarded for voluntary participation in an interprofessional activity and educational video representing the Expanded Functions Dental Assisting Program.

• Certified Dental Assistant
• BLS Provider

Puerto Rico Pre-dental Association