By Dr. Hetienne Macedo
For Dwayne, a Florida resident with a long-standing dread of dental visits, the idea of willingly sitting in a dentist’s chair seemed almost laughable—until his wife, Caroline, encouraged him to visit Park Family & Cosmetic Dentistry (PFCD).
“My wife went in first,” Dwayne explains. “She had some work done and came home raving about how gentle and professional the staff were. I thought, ‘Why would anyone like going to the dentist?’ That just means pain, right?”
Despite his hesitation, Dwayne agreed to give it a try. What happened next completely transformed his perception of dental care.
A Deeper Problem—and a Real Solution
Dwayne assumed he needed crowns for some broken teeth. But after reviewing scans, Dr. Hetienne Macedo discovered he had severe gum disease and bone loss caused by earlier failed dental work. Crowns alone wouldn’t be enough.
“Dr. Macedo explained everything clearly, and she brought in Dr. Long, right away. Within minutes, they had a long-term treatment plan designed specifically for me. I was immediately impressed by the way the entire staff communicated and collaborated.”
“For patients like Dwayne, it’s never just about fixing a tooth—it’s about restoring trust,” says Dr. Macedo. “That’s why we take the time to listen, plan, and deliver results that last.”
The treatment involved bone grafting to replace infected and deteriorated tissue, followed by the placement of zirconia dental implants—a modern solution built for durability, function, and aesthetics.
A Gentle Touch That Made the Difference
After his consultation and treatment planning with Dr. Macedo, Dwayne returned for a deep cleaning with Victoria Baffa, RDH, a hygienist at PFCD. Known by patients and staff for her exceptionally gentle technique, Victoria was a game-changer for Dwayne.
“She’s the only hygienist who has never made me flinch—even with a deep scaling. No pain relief needed, before or after. She’s just that gentle,” he says with admiration. “Most people avoid the dentist because it hurts, and then your teeth get worse because you keep putting it off. But not here.”
After his cleaning, Dwayne met again with Dr. Macedo, who is known for her patient-centered approach and clinical excellence. From the very beginning, her focus was not just on fixing the visible issues, but on creating a healthy, lasting foundation. That’s where zirconia implants came into the picture—a solution that would do more than restore Dwayne’s smile; it would rebuild his confidence.
Why Zirconia Implants Make All the Difference
Unlike traditional titanium implants or older restorative materials, zirconia implants are crafted from a type of high-strength ceramic known for its exceptional biocompatibility, stability, and esthetics. They’re also metal-free, making them ideal for patients with allergies or sensitivities.
“The equipment at PFCD is like something out of a sci-fi movie,” Dwayne jokes. “Everything is computer-generated, and every step of the process was spot-on. The fit of my new teeth is perfect.”
Zirconia implants are also resistant to corrosion, promote healthy gum response, and offer long-term durability. For Dwayne—who had experienced discomfort and bite issues with prior dental work—the difference was life-changing.
“I’ve had crowns before from another dentist, and the bite was never right—it actually hurt to chew. These implants? No pain. No adjustments needed. They just fit.”
A New Smile and a New Outlook
Following his procedure, Dwayne’s transformation wasn’t just physical—it was emotional.
“I can’t stop talking about my new teeth. I don’t know if dental work is supposed to be party conversation, but it is for me!” he laughs. “I tell everyone: Dr. Macedo, Dr. Long, Victoria, the office staff, and Dr. Macedo’s assistant—they’re all top-notch. I don’t think Dr. Macedo would stop her work unless everything was absolutely perfect. That’s just who she is.”
Dwayne and his wife Caroline, who own a cleaning business in Golden Gables, Florida, have seen firsthand how poor dental work can impact quality of life. Dwayne’s brother has struggled for years with faulty veneers from another provider. That made them both determined to find a better path.
“We went with the zirconia implants Dr. Macedo recommended because we wanted something that would last a lifetime. And now? My smile is perfect, and I actually like going to the dentist.”
The PFCD Difference
PFCD isn’t just a dental office—it’s a center of innovation, compassion, and excellence. From the latest digital imaging technology to a team that works seamlessly across specialties, it’s a place where patients like Dwayne rediscover confidence and health—one tooth at a time.
“They gave me more than a new smile—they gave me a reason to smile again,” Dwayne says. “I’ll never go anywhere else.”
About Dr. Hetienne Macedo
Originally from Brazil, Dr. Hetienne Macedo managed her own dental practice in Fortaleza for 15 years before relocating to the United States with her husband to provide their children with unique cultural and linguistic opportunities. She completed a dual DDS/AEGD Residency at the University of Rochester, where her outstanding clinical work earned her the prestigious Gerald N. Graser Award from the Eastman Institute for Oral Health. Fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, Dr. Macedo connects with diverse patients through open communication and shared treatment decisions. She finds fulfillment in positively impacting patients’ lives by resolving pain and boosting confidence through improved oral health. Outside the office, she enjoys family time with her husband and three sons while staying active through gym workouts, yoga, and running.
Park Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
239-330-4208