After growing up in South Florida, Dr. Michael Abufaris graduated from FTU (now UCF) with a B.S. degree in Mathematics and Science. He attended Emory University School of Dentistry for both his Doctorate of Dental Surgery and specialty training in Periodontology/Dental Implants.
With emphasis on grafting and regenerative procedures to replace problem tissue with healthy tissue, Dr. Abufaris blends the latest treatment ideas with extensive knowledge and years of professional experience. His chairside manner and attention to detail motivates him to provide ideal and realistic treatment for each and every patient.
He, his wife Patrice, and daughter Caroline, have been residents of Winter Park since 1983, where he also established his periodontal practice. Prior to this, Dr. Abufaris had a general dentistry practice in the Central Florida area. This provided a good basis to understand the important relationship between periodontal, implant and restorative dentistry.
When Dr. Abufaris is not in the office, you can find him at the beach, either surfing or reading a good book. He also enjoys all outdoor activities to include running, swimming, biking, snow skiing and golf.
Dr. Richardson grew up in Tavares, FL. He has a Bachelor’s in Chemistry from Wichita State University. He acquired his dental degree, periodontics specialty certificate and a master’s degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry in 2010
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He currently owns two private practices in Eustis and Winter Park, FL. Dr. Richardson maintains a courtesy teaching appointment at UFCD in the graduate periodontics department and teaches three lectures per year to the undergraduate dental students.
He plays several roles in organized dentistry as part of both the FDA and ADA delegations.
He currently lives in Eustis, FL with his wife of 20 years and twin 7-year-olds Thomas and Sydney.
Dr. Alejandro J. Baez-Gutierrez is a board-eligible periodontist with a passion for delivering high-quality, patient-centered periodontal and implant care. Originally from Puerto Rico, Dr. Baez-Gutierrez earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) degree from the University of Puerto Rico in 2018, graduating at the top of his class. During dental school, he demonstrated strong leadership, serving as Public Liaison for the American Student Dental Association (ASDA), a member of the Academic Senate, and later as President of the Student Body Council. For his dedication to community service, he was awarded the Fernando Ordoñez award by the Puerto Rican Dental Society.
Following dental school, he completed a General Practice Residency at the prestigious Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Hospital in New York City, where he gained valuable experience in comprehensive dental care. After practicing as a General Dentist in Manhattan, he decided to specialize in periodontics, beginning his residency at Nova Southeastern University in 2021.
As a periodontist, Dr. Baez-Gutierrez is highly skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal diseases, soft tissue management, and dental implant surgery. His expertise includes advanced periodontal care, root coverage procedures, and surgical preparation for dental implants. He takes pride in offering the latest techniques and ensuring the best possible outcomes for his patients.
Dr. Baez-Gutierrez is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association (ADA), Florida Dental Association (FDA), Florida Association of Periodontics (FAP), and the Dental Society of Greater Orlando (DSGO). He is committed to fostering collaboration with referring dentists to provide comprehensive, high-level care to his patients.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Dr. Baez-Gutierrez enjoys a range of hobbies, including working out, hiking, and reading about history. Fluent in both English and Spanish, he is currently expanding his language skills, with the goal of learning Portuguese and Italian. He is also in the process of learning to play the piano.
Dr. Baez-Gutierrez practices at Periodontal Associates of Winter Park alongside Dr. Joe Richardson, where he focuses on delivering compassionate, personalized care. His commitment to excellence and ongoing education ensures that his patients receive the highest standard of periodontal and implant treatment.
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