Sunny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric Dentist in St. Petersburg, FL

 
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About

Sunny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is proud to provide expert, child-centered dental care for families throughout St. Petersburg, FL. From your child’s very first visit to specialized treatments that protect developing smiles, we deliver thoughtful, individualized care in a bright, welcoming space.

Sunny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry

8525 Dr MLK Jr St N
St Petersburg, FL 33702

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Hours of operation

Monday – Thursday: 8:00AM to 4:30PM
Friday: Closed

Sunny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry

Why Families Choose Us

Our goal is to create a positive experience that sets the stage for lifelong oral health.

We are more than just a dental office. We are a team of women-led professionals, including a Spanish-speaking pediatric dentist and bilingual staff, who are passionate about helping children thrive. Families in St. Petersburg trust us for our:

Friendly, knowledgeable team

Expertise in treating autistic and special needs children

Personalized approach to dental care

Sedation dentistry options (nitrous oxide and IV sedation)

Emphasis on education, prevention, and comfort

Sunny Smiles

Meet Dr. Marai Vales

Dr. Vales and her team provide care for children across all stages of development, including those with sensory challenges or special needs. The clinic offers both private and semi-private rooms, takes a calm and attentive approach, and provides sedation options such as nitrous oxide and IV sedation, ensuring each child is treated in a way that suits their individual needs and personality.

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Dr. Marai Vales

St. Petersburg Location

Services Offered

Sunny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry offers comprehensive services tailored to each child’s age and developmental needs, including:

Pediatric dental exams and teeth cleanings

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Digital dental X-rays with low radiation

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Tooth-colored dental fillings and crowns

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Space maintainers after early tooth loss

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Baby root canal treatment (pulpotomy)

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Dental sealants and fluoride treatments

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Laser frenectomies using the LightScalpel CO₂ laser

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Safe and comfortable tooth extractions

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What To Expect as a New Patient

From the moment you walk in, our front-desk team will guide you through the new patient process. Expect:

Easy check-in and assistance with forms

A warm welcome and tour for your child

A thorough dental exam and professional cleaning

Honest conversations about your child’s oral health and treatment options

We accept most PPO dental plans, offer financing through CareCredit, and have an in-house discount plan in development. Self-pay specials are available for new patients.

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A Safe and Supportive Environment for Every Child

We know the dental office can be intimidating for young patients. That is why we have created a space that supports calm, cooperative visits. Our team has specialized training in working with children who have sensory sensitivities or developmental conditions.

With flexible scheduling, clear communication, and plenty of patience, we make every dental visit a positive one.

Excellent rating
Based on 622 reviews
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Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Hands down amazing experience every visit. I have 3 daughters and have been coming to this wonderful place for 4 years or so. Just coming to appointments makes me want to work there!! Would highly recommend.
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Maura McLean
30 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
My son might be their biggest patient! He has loved going to Sunny Smiles for years!!! Dr. Vales and her staff take great care of their patients! I've only seen smiles coming in and out, and that's on the littlest patients too!
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Aimee Matsko
25 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
They’re not only professional with taking care of all my daughters dental needs, they’re thoughtful and caring to me too. Their thoughtfulness exceeds because they are truly ALL great people!!!
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Amanda Lynch
22 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Staff is friendly, hygienist are great, and love Dr. Marai. The kids do not mind going to the dentist. Highly recommend.
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Deborah Olinger
6 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Love this place! Dr Vales always answers all your questions and the staff is so friendly and amazing with scheduling and insurance! My grandson loves going there, I highly recommend them!
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Bobbi Banks
4 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Our first visit today was a wonderful experience ! My kids have some situational anxiety and the staff was so understanding and communicative with the kids so they felt “included” in their experience and what was going on ! I 100% recommend this office, especially if you have babes with anxiety 💕
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Heather Brown
12 August 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Amazing experience!!! Quick and easy!!! Everyone is very friendly.we loved Dr. V and her closeness through the treatment. She answered our questions and treated us with kindness and respect.
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Amanda Aquino
5 August 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
We love the Lady’s working there, they are always happy and welcoming. With a great atmosphere!!! Oh yes, also always clean!
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Stephanie Ludwig
30 July 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
My son loves his visits to the dentist—something people are usually terrified of. The service at the reception is incredible—say goodbye to those stressful wait times—and as for the appointment with the dentist itself, what can I say? My son constantly asks me, "When is the next appointment?"
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Jorge Lemagne
29 July 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
We took our little girl to Sunny Smiles after we took her somewhere else for her first dental appointment. In the appointment at the first place, we had a terrible, highly anxious experience. Not the case with Sunny Smiles. She was put at ease and I as her parent was put at ease. Such a friendly staff and there was no tension in the air, only care and sensitivity towards our situation. I highly recommend Sunny Smiles!
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Amber Porter
17 July 2026
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The team does a great job and is very friendly.My son feels comfortable there And now actually looks forward to getting his teeth cleaned
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mom good
9 July 2026
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Dr Maria and her team are outstanding! They are so good with my son and make it easy to come in for cleanings. He says he LOVES the dentist and gets excited when he has to go. Definitely a dentist office I recommend to all parents with children.
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Alicia Fish
8 July 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
The team at Sunny Smiles was amazing! My kids felt comfortable from the moment they walked in, they even invited the staff to join our family vacation! 😅 Thank you for making a trip to the dentist such a fun and positive experience. We truly appreciate you!
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Leah Griffith
4 July 2026
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The staff here I can’t say enough is absolutely amazing! Today was my first visit with them and it was such a great environment to be in from the beginning. Everyone is so sweet and welcoming. Nothing but absolute great things to say!!
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Juliana Garcia
2 July 2026
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I am not one to typically leave reviews, but Dr. Vales and the Sunny Smiles office has done such an amazing job with my 4 kids I wanted to share with others. They are incredibly professional and flexible when I’ve had to move appointments. My kids actually like going to the dentist because of them. I would ABSOLUTELY recommend her to anyone looking for a dentist for their children.
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Michelle Werr
19 June 2026
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We had a great experience at Sunny Smiles! The hygienist and doctor were both so friendly and wonderful with my 18 month old daughter. It was her first time at the dentist and they were so great to ease my worries. I highly recommend them for any child. I wrote that review a while back and my daughter is now almost 4. We still love it at Sunny Smiles.
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Emily Chavie
22 May 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Best pediatric dentist in St. Pete. Dr. Maria and her staff go above and beyond making the appointments as easy and pleasant as possible. We can’t recommend them enough!
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Amanda Henderson
6 April 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Feliz con la atención que dieron a mi hija en la clínica , todo el personal fueron amables y con un trato muy profesional agradecida con todos es una excelente clínica dental.
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Elizabeth valdes
30 March 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
We LOVE sunny smiles! It’s a bit of a drive from us but it is 100% worth it. The staff is incredible, quick on getting you back. My daughter is terrified of the dentist, to the point of crying and almost throwing up and the hygienist was beyond kind and patient with her. It means so much! HIGHLY recommend!
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Lindsay Bruce
24 March 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Warm environment with kind and caring staff. My kids are long time patients and love Dr V. She is very good at what she does and super gentle.
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Maria C
7 February 2026
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The staff here is always so caring and compassionate. They see all three of my young children in the same appointment and make it so easy! Office is always clean, calm, organized, and timely. Staff is kind and helpful. The dentist is very knowledgeable and truly knows what’s best for your child.
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Brenna Toussaint
29 January 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Love the atmosphere. Very well maintained and clean appearance.Welcoming professional environment. My son enjoys going to the dentist. Thank you for always being so kind. You and your team engage in conversation with us which makes us feel important and valued.
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magdelene palacios
22 January 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Our kids had an excellent experience with their dental cleaning! The hygienist was gentle, thorough, and took the time to explain everything she was doing, which made them feel completely at ease. Their teeth feel incredibly clean and fresh, without feeling rushed. The office was spotless, the staff was friendly and professional, and we truly felt cared for from start to finish. Highly recommend this practice to anyone looking for top-notch dental care!
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Crystal Batista
19 December 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Staff is friendly and competent! Dr is very good at working with even very young kids. Both daughters go here and we very much enjoy our visits.
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Laura Menicucci
14 November 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I am seeing Dr. Vales for more than 3 years now for my Daughter and all staff and a doctor are awesome and they go above and beyond. Great doctor and staff. I will 100% recommended them.
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Pooja Patel
30 October 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
My daughter used to be really scared of the dentist, but over the past few years of coming here, it’s gotten better each time. Today, she didn’t even cry! We really appreciate how friendly the staff is and how they always remember the little things—like the fact that she only likes the mint flavor. Those small details make a big difference. I truly enjoy bringing her here because every visit is such a positive experience. Thank you!
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Jeneveive Esperanza
21 October 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Great people friendly attitude. Some of the best dental workers I've come across. They're quick to get you in and out without any problems. Two thumbs up for that company
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Emile Wisdom
7 October 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I absolutely love Sunny Smiles . The staff is amazing and the establishment is very clean. My daughter has been going here for over 5 years and I wouldn’t change it for the world.
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Uriah Blanks
8 September 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
My children have been going to Sunny Smiles for their routine dental care for years. We have always had a good experience. I am not normally a person who gives reviews, but… Today my special needs son had an accident and needed immediate care. He was in a treatment chair less than an hour after I called. The front office ran our insurance quickly, gave me our options, and handled the paperwork. My son’s favorite hygienist greeted him. She took time to explain the procedure and comfort him. She even popped out to the waiting room to give me an update. He looks like nothing ever happened. The entire staff at Sunny Smiles 11 out of 10.
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Robin Nascimento
2 September 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
We love Dr. Vales and her staff! She and her hygienists are always so gentle and patient with my kiddos. It's a welcoming, clean, friendly environment every time. The kids get a prize token at the end, they really enjoy coming to their cleanings and check ups! Highly recommend Sunny Smiles!
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Kinga Jakubowski
29 August 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
We absolutely love this office! The staff always goes above and beyond, and my kids truly enjoy coming here. In fact, they actually get excited for their dentist visits—which says it all!
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Bethanne Redford
29 August 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
The team at Sunny smiles is amazing! My daughter hated going to the dentist due to some experiences she had when she was younger. Now she has no concern whatsoever. Highly recommend sunny smiles
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Kelly Crawford
28 August 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I have always had the most professional and caring experience at Sunny Smiles. The staff is incredibly professional and kind. Dr Vales is so communicative and most importantly takes so much care of my kids emotional well being. It is nothing new that going to the dentist can be traumatic and she always chooses what’s best for them while taking care of their smiles. Very very happy with my appointment today and every time we visit.
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Blanca Brande
28 August 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Excellent experience! Dr Lee is a wonderful pediatric dentist and her team is professional and kind. I highly recommend this place.
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Yenima Ramirez
21 August 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
The dental hygienist was very personable and made my daughter feel comfortable. The facility was clean. She also got a token to put in a machine for a prize after the visit.
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Sydney Karrer
20 August 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Both My Kids have been going here a few years and we absolutely love it . The staff is nice, gentle and knowledgeable, Highly recommended!!
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Melissa Harris
6 August 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
We had a great experience here. It was the first time my kids had been to a dentist since Covid. I was worried about shame and embarrassment (in addition to the condition of their teeth, obviously) but they were so kind and my kids felt comfortable and at ease. I drive by the office going to work every day so when I finally got dental insurance for the kids, I decided to try this office first. And Alyssa is who I spoke to on the phone. She is what sold me on this office. She was so nice and it really seemed like she cared about her job. Thank you!
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Jessica Chassereau
27 July 2025
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My daughter looks forward to going to the dentist! She loves the games they have in the front while you wait and all the decorations inside! Also all the staff ladies are great!
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Elise Small
27 July 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Every time we go, it’s wonderful experience at Sunny Smiles! The entire staff is warm, welcoming, and incredibly patient with my kiddos. From the moment we walk in, the environment is kid-friendly and calming, which helps ease any nerves. The dentist takes the time to explain everything in a gentle and reassuring way, making sure my children feels safe and comfortable throughout the visit. I truly appreciate their care and professionalism. Highly recommend to any parent looking for a great pediatric dental team!
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Yasmin Moya
10 July 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
We took our 2 daughters here for a cleaning. The whole family enjoyed their visit. The staff was wonderful! We will be returning.
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Valarie Brown
7 July 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Always a pleasant experience. Scheduling is typically very easy and they are accommodating. Office and patient rooms are clean and maintained staff is always pleasant and works very well with my children.
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reuben ortiz
2 July 2025
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My trip was AMAZING today!! My family has always been going here but this was the first time I went on my own and they treated me so well. Sharolyn (sorry if I’m spelling this wrong!) was my dental hygienist and she was so kind and chatted with me while we waited for the dentist and it was so fun! Not only that but the office was so well-decorated for Halloween and was so comfortable before, during, and after the appointment! So glad I went - and remember not to neglect your teeth!! EDIT: Yuli was so amazing this time!
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Bells Croteau
9 June 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Competent & caring dental work in a clean, nurturing environment! The staff is very patient-centered and Dr. Valdez is very knowledgeable and understanding with the children.
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Caryle Johnson
21 May 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Great experience getting my kids first appointments. We loved our previous dentist but insurance changes forced us to move. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience transitioning. My kids enjoyed the visit and were greeted with excitement and encouragement which goes a long way when making new changes with little ones. Looking forward to this as our new dentist!
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Caylen Holmes
21 May 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
My 4 year old was nervous about his first appointment but everyone here was wonderful! The hygienist really took her time to explain everything to him and make sure that he wasn’t uncomfortable, she was really amazing. He was smiling out the door, thanks sunny smiles!
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Kaylee Palomino
1 May 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
My son has enjoyed going to this dentist from day. Everyone is always making sure he is calm. They explain to him what is going to happen so nothing is a surprise. Whenever he comes from the back he is all smiles.
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Andrea Bryant
21 April 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
It was only our first visit, but we couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Everyone was very kind and knowledgeable. So happy we found Sunny Smiles!
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Joanna Zarzycki
12 April 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Iam so glade I was recommended to this practice. From the front desk, to the assistant and Dr Maria, I was very very pleased. They are amazing and made sure my daughter was comfortable and ok at all times. Thank you guys so much for everything ❤️ so glade I found you guys!
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Ashely McKenzie
26 March 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I took my daughter here after she had a bad experience at a past dentist. The people at Sunny Smiles were really understanding and were patient with her. The last time I took her here she was fine to be alone which is something that she hasn't been comfortable doing on her own before.
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Lydia Hvozdarova
23 March 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I've been taking my kids to sunny smiles pediatric dentistry for a few years now. It's a bit out of our way, but so worth the drive. The customer service and work ethic is hard to find these days. I'm very pleased with everything they do. I would highly recommend.
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Kim Turnbull
11 March 2025

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Visit Our Pediatric Dental Office in St. Petersburg, FL

Whether your child is due for a routine checkup or needs gentle treatment for a cavity, we are here to help them smile with confidence. If you are searching for a trusted pediatric dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, you are in the right place.

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