Dr. Rosemarie Marquez, owner of St. Pete Oral Health Center, is giving her patients something to smile about! This dedicated dentist is on a mission to transform the way people perceive oral health. With a focus on the mouth-body connection and a commitment to providing comprehensive dental care, Dr. Marquez's small private practice is making a significant impact in the local area. She is also bilingual and caters to clients from all walks of life.

The Mouth-Body Connection

“I focus on the whole-body connection,” explains Dr. Marquez. She strongly believes that oral health is intricately connected to systemic health. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining optimal oral hygiene to prevent the spread of oral pathogens throughout the body. Research has shown that neglecting oral health can lead to various health issues, with studies indicating that 50 percent of heart attacks and strokes are precipitated by oral pathogens. Additionally, a staggering 70 percent of Alzheimer's patients had a periodontal condition for ten years before the onset of the disease. Understanding the profound impact of oral health on overall well-being, Dr. Marquez encourages everyone to prioritize their oral health.

“When you neglect your oral health, it can cause issues in the rest of the body,” she cautions.

Innovative Treatments

To combat the bacteria causing major oral health issues, Dr. Marquez is implementing innovative treatments using hydrogen peroxide. By introducing oxygen into the deeper pockets affected by anaerobic bacteria, Dr. Marquez aims to improve patients' oral health. This includes using trays with hydrogen peroxide that are applied to the gum tissue, effectively fighting against the bacteria causing significant problems.

Comprehensive Dental Care: A Small Practice with a Big Heart

As a general dentist, Dr. Marquez handles everything from simple procedures to complex cases. However, for procedures such as root canals, she refers patients to specialists to ensure the highest level of care. Driven by a patient-centric approach, Dr. Marquez sees patients of all ages, starting from the age of 3. “If a child is comfortable, I am comfortable,” she explains. 

Understanding that dental anxiety is a common concern, Dr. Marquez and her team employ various strategies to create a comfortable environment for their patients. For those who fear the needle, Dr. Marquez uses a device called the DentalVibe, which disrupts the pain pathway during injections, significantly reducing discomfort for 50 percent of patients. Additionally, compounded topical anesthetics are used for patients who require stronger numbing agents, especially for gum tissue around the front of the upper arch, which has more nerve endings. The practice ensures that patient comfort is prioritized throughout every procedure.

By implementing cutting-edge technology, Dr. Marquez can cater to all patients. Consider Carivu, a radiation-free imaging system that provides a different dimension of tooth imaging, allowing for the detection of decay alongside existing fillings. This technology enables a more comprehensive examination and benefits patients, including pregnant individuals who may be concerned about radiation exposure.

Giving Back 

Dr. Marquez and her team actively participate in an organization called Donated Dental Services, through the Dental Lifeline Network. This organization screens medically compromised individuals who lack the financial means for dental care and refers them to St. Pete Oral Health Center. She and her team work diligently to restore these patients' oral health, providing necessary treatments, such as oral surgery or restorative work. In the process, they improve people’s oral health.

Loving Life in Tierra Verde 

Outside of her dental practice, Dr. Marquez leads a fulfilling life. She cherishes her close-knit community in Tierra Verde, where she enjoys walks on the beach and spending quality time with her husband, John. Dr. Marquez is also a proud parent and grandparent, enjoying opportunities to be with her children and grandchildren whenever possible. As she says, “I’m never happier than when my house is full.” Her son, a pilot, and her youngest daughter, in medical school, come home for Sunday dinner as often as possible. Their other 2 daughters live out of state.  

To relax, she is an avid reader and reads every night. Crafting is another pastime that she enjoys when she finds the time, which isn’t much as a busy entrepreneur, mother, and grandmother. 

We are honored to feature Dr. Marquez in this month’s issue. For more information on her practice, check out her website, www.stpeteoralhealthcenter.com. She would be happy to help you with all of your dental needs!