DENTAL HYGIENIST
Michelle
Michelle joined Smiles of Fort Myers in December 2023, bringing with her 7 years of experience as a dental hygienist. She chose a career in dentistry because she enjoys providing a relaxing and calming dental experience to nervous patients. Known for her gentle yet effective cleanings, Michelle is dedicated to building strong relationships with her patients and looks forward to seeing them at every visit.
Originally from Ohio, Michelle moved to Florida at the age of 12 and has lived in the area for 42 years. Outside of work, she enjoys sewing, DIY projects, dining out, and spending time with her family and friends. Michelle is married and the proud mother of two children. She also has two dogs, a black lab and a yorkie.
In addition to her professional work, Michelle is passionate about giving back to the community. She actively volunteers to ship care packages to US troops, demonstrating her commitment to supporting those who serve.
DENTAL HYGIENIST
Sal
Sal’s journey in dentistry began in 2022 when he graduated from Florida Southwestern State College with an AS in Dental Hygiene. He honed his skills at private practices in the area before joining our team in 2024.
Sal’s motivation to pursue a career in dental hygiene is deeply personal and inspiring. Born in Guatemala, Sal grew up witnessing significant access barriers to dental care. He shares, “Growing up, having my teeth cleaned was only a dream. A dream I never knew I’d end up fulfilling, but also work in making that a reality for others.” This profound connection to his roots and personal experiences drives Sal to excel in his field and help others achieve the dental care they deserve.
Dedication to being better every day is not just a personal mantra for Sal, but a professional commitment reflected in his work and interactions with patients. Patients consistently describe Sal as an excellent hygienist who is knowledgeable, thorough, warm, friendly, and possesses a great personality. These qualities make each visit a pleasant and reassuring experience, as Sal prioritizes patient comfort and satisfaction.
Sal is fluent in English and Spanish.
OFFICE MANAGER
Wendy
Inspired by the joy a smile restoration brings patients, Wendy was inspired to pursue a career in dentistry. Over the course of her career, which began in 2012, she gained experience in a range of positions, including Patient Care Coordinator, Sterilization Tech, and Dental Assistant. In addition to her professional experience, Wendy holds Associate of Arts degrees from Hodges University and Florida Southwestern State College.
Her hard work and leadership qualities led to her promotion to Lead Dental Assistant at our sister practice Lee Dental Care. Due to her exemplary performance in that role, Wendy was appointed Office Manager here at Smiles of Fort Myers. Wendy’s experience leading the Dental Assisting Team at our large and busy sister practice, Lee Dental Care, along with her comprehensive knowledge of front- and back-office operations, provides her with a solid foundation to help our office run smoothly.
Known for her friendly and enthusiastic demeanor, Wendy sets a tone of positivity and warmth throughout our office. She leads with integrity and a heartfelt commitment to treating every patient like a valued member of our family, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment. Because of her extensive clinical experience, she is keenly aware of the profound impact of dental care can have on patients’ lives. Her commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of her work, from patient interactions to team leadership.
Wendy was born in Cuba and moved to Florida along with her family as a young teen. A devoted wife and mother, she cherishes time spent traveling and going to the beach with her husband and two sons. Wendy is fluent in English and Spanish.
PATIENT CARE COORDINATOR
Kristina
Kristina started her career in dentistry in 2022, working as a Patient Care Coordinator at our sister practice Community Dental Care. She joined our team in 2024. Inspired by her mother, a Dental Assistant, Kristina originally trained as a Dental Assistant. Her friendly, social nature and excellent organizational skills soon led her to make a move into the Patient Care Coordinator role. Her understanding of both front- and back- office operations helps her seamlessly coordinate with the clinical team, providing a smoother patient experience.
Kristina’s sweet, kind demeanor makes patients feel welcome as soon as they step into our office. Whether on the phone or in person, Kristina treats each patient with warmth and compassion. Her sense of humor keeps our patients and her teammates smiling.
Originally from Michigan, Kristina left the cold behind and moved to Fort Myers in 2012. She lives with her fiancé and daughter. In her free time, Kristina enjoys singing and acting as a makeup artist for friends. She is fluent in both Spanish and English.
LEAD DENTAL ASSISTANT
Isaura
Isa brings a legacy of dental excellence to Smiles of Fort Myers, following in the footsteps of her mother who was also a Dental Assistant. Since starting her own career in 2009, Isa has approached her work with compassion, sensitivity, and a great sense of humor. Her positivity is infectious, making it hard not to smile when she’s around. Isa’s outstanding performance as a Dental Assistant made her the natural choice to be Lead DA at our office. In this role Isa mentors and guides her fellow Dental Assistants to ensure a superior experience for every patient.
Passionate about dentistry, Isa’s enthusiasm shines through in her interactions with patients. She excels at fabricating temporaries, ensuring patients can smile with confidence while awaiting their permanent dentures, bridges, or crowns. Isa takes great joy in connecting with patients through smile makeovers and loves witnessing their happiness when the transformation is complete.
Isa’s journey began in Cuba, and at the age of six, she and her family moved to Florida. When she’s not busy brightening smiles at the office, Isa enjoys spending quality time with her beautiful daughter, skating, dancing, and exploring new adventures. Isa is fluent in English and Spanish.
DENTAL ASSISTANT
Rosalba
Rosa was educated at the Institution of Medical and Dental Technology and began her career working here with Dr. Sanderford in 2021. We were delighted to have her continue as part of the Smile of Fort Myers team when we transitioned to our new name in 2023. Rosa continues to help ensure that our office continues to uphold the high standard of patient care Dr. Sanderford’s patients expect.
Rosa’s decision to pursue a career in dentistry was sparked by her curiosity about what goes on behind the scenes at the dental office. In her current role, she finds great satisfaction in assisting the doctor and keeping the office organized and running smoothly. Rosa’s team members know her as a highly motivated quick study who helps make our office a great place to work and for patients to visit.
Originally from Guatemala, Rosa was raised in Fort Myers, where she developed a love for both her community and her profession. Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and playing soccer. Rosa is married and the proud mother of two boys.