Dr. Menendez was born in Havana, Cuba. His family immigrated to the United States when he was 1 year old, moved to Lake City Florida where he, his 2 brothers and sister grew up. Homegrown in Lake City, he later graduated from Columbia High School.
Dr. Menendez had a desire for dentistry as long as he can remember. After receiving his Bachelors degree from the University of Florida, Dr. Menendez graduated from the Colombian School of Dentistry. He began practicing Dentistry in Pinellas County in 1983, while continuing his studies with a two-year Comprehensive Dentistry Program at the University of Florida School of Dentistry, which he completed in 1988.
Today, Dr. Menendez is an active member of the American Dental Association (ADA), the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), American Academy of Facial Esthetics (AAFE), International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI) and the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) where he has earned the status of Master of the Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD). The status of MAGD is bestowed to those individuals who have completed a requisite of 1100 hours of continuing education in determined disciplines above the requirement of Fellowship. Mastership reflects his ongoing commitment to provide quality care through continuing education.
Dr. Menendez was inducted in 2014 as a Fellow of the American College of Dentist. This is an honorary recognition for leadership by serving dentistry and community through Excellence, Ethics, Professionalism and Leadership. He also proudly served as the 2012 President of the Upper Pinellas County Dental Association and in 2018 as the President of the West Coast District Dental Association.
Dr. Menendez is passionate about continuing his advanced dental courses to be at the forefront of dental technology. He recently graduated from the Implant Continuum course through the University of Florida and is a Fellow in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He is also very passionate about giving back to his community through organized dentistry. He is actively involved with philanthropic works for Gulf Coast Dental Outreach, Homeless Empowerment Program, Clearwater Community Dental Clinic and Give Kids a Smile. He was Co-Clinical coordinator for the first Mission of Mercy event in the state of Florida, held at the Tampa Fairgrounds in 2014. Dr. Menendez is currently serving as FDA Foundation statewide coordinator for this event.
Dr. Menendez married the love of his life, Denise in 1984, and together they have two children, Kevin and Ashley. Dr. Menendez and Denise have lived and raised their family in the Palm Harbor area since they were married in 1984. Outside of work, Dr. Menendez enjoys fishing, spear-fishing, scuba diving, boating, golfing, skeet & trap shooting and snow skiing. He is also a strong supporter of the Tampa Bay Rays and the University of Florida Go Gators!
I consulted with several dentists looking for a way to correct my crooked teeth without wearing braces. Finally I met Dr. Menendez and my wishes came true. He was able to reposition my teeth with porcelain veneers and gave me the smile I always dreamed of. Now I smile all of the time and couldnt be happier!
Dr. Menendez looked at my complete mouth and planned for 20 years from now. He explained to me that I should consider my dental condition in terms of my overall health. As a gospel singer, I am in front of people all the time. Now I can smile big. My new smile has completely changed my life.'
Dr. Menendez is so knowledgeable and caring. Hes not pushy, and lets the patient make the decision about their own treatment. The office is a pleasure to come to everyone is very personable. Its the kind of place where everyone knows your name. I love the look of my new teeth, its made a big difference in my self-esteem. I no longer cover my smile with my hand.'
Due to grinding my teeth, my front teeth were worn with fracture lines. Porcelain veneers were used to restore my teeth and the outcome was an outstanding smile - Dr. Menendez is quite an artist! He and his team provided me the finest care imaginable and I cant imagine going any where else. After all, I have been a patient in the practice for 20 years.'
Laura joined the Dr. Menendez team in 2019. Although being the newest team member, Laura brings over two decades of experience to the office and to her patients. Laura started her career in dentistry in 1996 as a general dental assistant before moving on to become an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant. She then graduated from St. Petersburg College in 2005 as a Registered Dental Hygienist.
In addition to starting her dental career, Laura also met her husband Mark in 1996. Together they enjoy their time off soaking up the Florida sun on their boat. If the sun is shining, they will definitely be on the boat! Laura and Mark are proud parents of two fur babies a loving German Shepard and a playful cat who they rescued and has now become a part of the family.
Lauras favorite aspect of dentistry isThe relationships and trust you build with patients over the years. Nothing is more gratifying than seeing a fearful patient change over time into a patient that no longer fears going to the dentist. I have actually had patients tell me that they were looking forward to their dental visit! That is a huge accomplishment in my book and I am so thrilled to be a part of that!
Catherine is a graduate of Concordia University, River Forest/Chicago, where she earned her degree in Education and a minor in Psychology. She has had many years of experience as a dental assistant and office manager in her dental career. Catherine loves being part of this knowledgeable, professional and caring team. She is excellent at greeting patients, assisting with scheduling and creating a warm and relaxing environment.
During her free time, Catherine takes joy in spending time with family & friends and volunteering for local school and community functions and events. Along with her husband Scott and daughter Natalie, Catherine loves traveling to discover and learn about new places, culinary delights and culture.