Sunny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry
Meet the Team
Meet the caring team at Sunny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry in St. Petersburg, FL. Bilingual, kid-friendly, and experts in creating happy, healthy smiles.
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Our Team
At Sunny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, our team is the heart of our practice. From the moment you walk through the door to the final high-five after treatment, you will meet a group of friendly professionals who love what they do.
We are proud to be a women-led team with bilingual staff and a shared passion for pediatric care that is inclusive, gentle, and joyful. Whether we are helping your child feel comfortable in the chair or celebrating a no-cavity visit, we treat every family like our own.
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St. Petersburg Location
The Team
Every smile we care for starts with a strong team. From the front desk to the treatment chair, you can count on us for expert care, cheerful energy, and a kid-friendly experience that makes going to the dentist something to smile about.
Dr. Marai Vales
Dr. Vales earned her dental degree from the University of Connecticut and completed her pediatric dentistry residency at the University of Pittsburgh and Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. Originally from Puerto Rico, she moved to Florida in 1997 to be closer to family and continue her passion for pediatric care.
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Michele
Office Manager
With 17 years in dentistry, Michele keeps our office running smoothly and our families well cared for. When she is not at Sunny Smiles, she is soaking up time with her children and her two dogs, Zara (a German Shepherd) and Oreo (a Lab mix).
Shawn
Assistant Manager
Shawn has spent 4 years making pediatric dental visits easier and more enjoyable. Outside the office, you can find Shawn exploring St. Pete’s local markets, gardening, or spending time with two miniature dachshunds, Teddy and Gus.
Alissa
Front Desk Administrator
Alissa has been helping families feel welcome at the front desk for 3 years. She loves rollerblading, spending time outdoors, and hanging out with her family. Her sidekick is Ember, a playful pit bull/boxer mix.
Julia
Dental Assistant
With 16 years of experience, Julia brings skill and dedication to every appointment. She enjoys spending time with her daughters, riding her bike, going to music events, and getting involved in anything art-related. At home, she has two cats named Zen and Frida.
Dana
Dental Assistant
Dana has been working in pediatric dentistry for 11 years and brings a spark of fun to every appointment. She enjoys riding her motorcycle, crafting sparkly creations, and spending time with her grandkids. Her pets include Tucker the collie mix and two cats, Matti and Dyna.
Yuly
Dental Assistant
Yuly brings 10 years of dental experience to the team and loves helping kids feel comfortable during their visits. Outside the office, she enjoys spending time with her son, reading, and trying new food spots around town. Her pet crew includes a Catahoula dog named Earl and six lively goldfish.
Cherylynn
Dental Assistant
Cherylynn has been in dentistry for 29 years and graduated from Vocational Health in Metairie, Louisiana in 1997. She enjoys spending time with her family and is a proud mom of five boys and grandmother to nine grandchildren.
