Welcome to Gators Tooth Team
Meet our Gator Dentists
Team Member
oscar arevalo
DDS, ScD, MBA, MS
Dr. Arevalo is a highly respected pediatric dentist with a rich and diverse background. He started his dental journey at Javeriana University in Bogotá, Colombia, and went on to deepen his expertise through additional training at Boston University, Temple University, and the University of Puerto Rico.
He’s uniquely trained in both pediatric dentistry and public health, and he holds Diplomate status with both the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Board of Dental Public Health. His skills and knowledge make him a leading figure in his field, combining hands-on care with a deep understanding of public health.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Arevalo is also a passionate educator. He’s held leadership roles at respected institutions like the Kornberg School of Dentistry, the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry, and now at the Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Pediatric Dentistry Residency Program. Dr. Arevalo is actively involved in important dental organizations, such as the American Association of Public Health Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. He has published extensively on topics like health disparities and dental care, always striving to make a positive impact both in the dental office and in the broader community.
Dr. Arevalo is a strong advocate for children’s health, working on dental policy and advocacy at the state level. He has been involved with groups like Oral Health Florida and the Florida Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, helping to improve access to care and influence policy decisions. His work is supported by agencies like the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of his efforts.
Outside of his professional life, Dr. Arevalo, or “Dr. A” as his patients affectionately call him, enjoys the arts, reading, and finding creative ways to teach his young patients about math. He makes it a point to connect with them personally, creating a welcoming and fun atmosphere at every visit.
Team Member
Suheily Aponte Rodriguez
DMD
Dr. Aponte is a compassionate pediatric dentist who earned her dental degree from the University of Puerto Rico School of Dental Medicine in Bayamon, Puerto Rico.
She is an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and is board-certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
Dr. Aponte’s clinical interests focus on treating patients with developmental disabilities and special needs, utilizing both pharmacological and non-pharmacological behavior management techniques. Her bilingual fluency in English and Spanish allows her to connect with a diverse range of patients and families.
In addition to her clinical expertise, Dr. Aponte is known for her warm, patient-centered approach. During consultations, you may hear her singing to her patients—an enjoyable and comforting part of her routine that helps ease anxiety and build trust with children.
Team Member
Marianne cardenas
DMD
Dr. Cárdenas, DMD is a pediatric dentist dedicated to helping children build healthy, confident smiles in a fun and caring environment. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Florida (Go Gators!) before receiving her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. She then returned home to South Florida to complete her pediatric dental residency at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami.
In addition to her specialty training, Dr. Cárdenas holds a Master’s degree in Bioethics and is a proud member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). She is passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based care while making every child feel comfortable and excited about visiting the dentist.
Born and raised in Miami, Dr. Cárdenas is a proud Cuban American. She loves calling South Florida home, where she enjoys spending time with her husband, her two children, Carli and Tini, and their tiny 5-pound poodle, Sophie.
When she’s not caring for little smiles, you’ll likely find Dr. Cárdenas planning her family’s next adventure, exploring South Florida’s parks, museums, and splash pads, relaxing at the beach, or searching for the best dessert in town. (Don’t worry—she always reminds her patients to brush and floss for two minutes afterward!)
Team Member
SAMANTHA NOLTEDMD
Dr. Nolte is a compassionate and sweet pediatric dentist with extensive experience providing oral healthcare to children, adolescents, and patients with special needs.
She graduated from the Université de Montréal School of Dentistry in Montreal, Quebec, and completed her pediatric dental residency at the Montefiore Health System/Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. Known for her gentle and thoughtful approach, Dr. Nolte is dedicated to making her young patients feel at ease.
She takes the time to explain procedures in a way that is clear and simple, ensuring both children and parents fully understand the treatment process.
During consultations, you might even hear Dr. Nolte softly counting from 1 to 20 in a sweet and soothing voice—helping children feel relaxed and allowing them to focus on her calming words, which in turn reduces tension and anxiety.
She is committed to ensuring that children are not uncomfortable by avoiding prolonged treatment times and creating a swift and positive experience for every child. Dr. Nolte, who is multilingual in French, English, Creole, and Spanish, works to make all families feel comfortable and understood.
Team Member
EMILIA SMITH ALVAREZDMD
Dr. Emilia Smith-Alvarez, DMD is a dedicated, board-certified pediatric dentist with a patient- and family-centered approach that emphasizes individualized and compassionate care. Born and raised in Miami, FL, to Colombian parents, Dr. Smith graduated from Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart before earning her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a pre-dental focus from New York University. She graduated cum laude and received the Founders Day Award. She went on to complete her dental training at Boston University’s Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, graduating magna cum laude and ranked in the top 10% of her class.
After three and a half years of practicing general dentistry in Miami treating both adults and children, she discovered her true calling was working with the kids. She went on to complete her two-year pediatric specialty training at St. Barnabas Hospital in the Bronx, NY. Here she also received training in sedation dentistry allowing her to provide safe and effective care for children who may need additional support during treatment.
With over eight years of experience treating patients, Dr. Smith brings both clinical expertise and a compassionate approach to every appointment. In addition to her private practice work, she also serves part-time as an Attending in the Pediatric Dental Department at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital.
With a natural ability to connect with her young patients, Dr. Smith creates a warm and welcoming environment where children feel at ease. She is passionate about working with the special needs community, ensuring they receive the loving and customized care they deserve. She is committed to making dental visits a positive experience and helping children build a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Outside of dentistry, she enjoys beach days, dancing, singing, yoga, pilates, traveling, and spending time with her family, loved ones and her dog, Aluna