Dr. Claudia Battistini grew up in Havanna, Cuba. She earned her bachelor's in biomedical Sciences at The University of South Florida, Tampa, and her Doctor of Dental Medicine at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, where she received the International College of Dentists, USA Section Student Leadership Award for demonstrated leadership as a dental student and future leadership potential. Dr. Battistini entered the dental field with the support of her family and mentors who taught her the value of treating patients as family and continue to help her hone her creative skills. Her favorite aspect of dentistry is being able to create beautiful and healthier smiles. Outside the office Dr. Battistini enjoys visiting family, outdoor activities, and getting to know new cultures with her husband.

"Born and raised in Ecuador until the age of 12, Dr. Cardenas moved to the United States, where he spent most of his school life in Connecticut. He attended the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine before relocating to Seminole, FL, in 2023 to join the University of Florida's Advanced Education in General Dentistry Program.

Dr. Cardenas is passionate about dentistry, with a particular focus on oral surgery, implant dentistry, removable and fixed prosthodontics, and the use of digital dentistry and 3D printing technology. His commitment to these advanced techniques keeps the practice at the forefront of the field.

In his free time, he enjoys playing pickleball, watching soccer games, and sampling cuisines from around the world. He also loves dancing to Latin music."

Tara graduated college in 2003 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from the University of Missouri-Columbia. A year later she moved to Palm Harbor to obtain her Associates Degree in Hygiene from St. Petersburg College. Upon graduation in 2007, she began working full time and has been practicing hygiene in the Tampa Bay area ever since.

As a periodontal therapist, Tara’s goal is to provide patients with quality, gentle dental care. She also educates patients on how to achieve and maintain a healthy smile for a lifetime. Tara is very enthusiastic about contributing to the exceptional care that Dr. Menendez and his team have been providing to patients for more than 35 years.

Outside of work, Tara loves spending the weekends with her husband and three sons, enjoying all that Florida has to offer. She enjoys reading, food/wine tastings and spending time at the beach.

Yari has a unique story, so if you ever have the pleasure of meeting her be sure to ask! Yari was born and raised in Habana (Havana) Cuba. At the age of 19, she had the opportunity to be a part of an exchange program in China, where she studied at the Beijing Language and Culture University, BLCU. From there, she moved to the United States 10 years ago and met her husband. Together, they have a little boy, who is the joy of their lives, in addition to three “crazy” dogs. During her down time, she enjoys anything crafty, painting, and building miniature houses. She attended Dental Hygiene School in Suny Cane, New York and graduated in 2019.

Yari started working with Dr. Menendez and his team in October of 2022, and brings a beautiful energy to our office, you will never see her without a smile on her face.

“What I love about my job is being able to help people every day” ~ Yari

Sara proudly joined Dr. Menendez's team in 2008 and has loved every minute of being there since then. Passionate about providing the highest quality dental services, she received her Expanded Functions Certification at the University of Florida in Dental Assisting. She treats all patients with a gentle and kind demeanor and ensures that everyone feels comfortable.

One of Sara's greatest areas of expertise is radiography, where she exemplifies a high level of competency and sensitivity to patients.

Sara says, "Assisting patients in obtaining comfortable radiographs is so important. What I love most about my position is building the relationship with patients, while helping them have full understanding of their oral health and the possibilities available for them! Dr. Menendez provides us the opportunity to learn and grow each day. I am happy and proud to be a part of this amazing team."

In her spare time, Sara loves spending time with her family as well as time with her boyfriend Ricky. Together they enjoy Florida at its best with boating, golf cart riding and watching Florida State football!

Olivia was born and raised in Florida; she developed an interest in dentistry when she was a young girl. The dentist was the one doctor she was never afraid to go to and was fascinated with teeth, so much so that 3 years ago she decided to step into the dental field. Olivia joined Dr. Menendez’s team in 2024 as a support assistant who is radiology certified. She is actively working to further her career in dentistry by continuing her certification requirements and learning new skills. Olivia is proud to be a part of this wonderful team, with peers who lift her up and guide her to advance her career. She says, “It is a great feeling to walk into work every day knowing she is working alongside a trustworthy, highly educated well rounded doctor.” She owns 2 French bulldogs, Murphy & Maggie, enjoys line dancing, singing, and writing music, she loves hockey and is a former professional competitive figure skater. She is always thankful for her friends and family who surround her.

Catherine proudly joined Dr. Menendez’s team in February of 2019, as an Administrative Assistant. She has been a great asset to the practice ever since she joined us!

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.

Kathy is the amazing Assistant Manager at Comprehensive Dental Care. She has been an outstanding asset to Dr. Menendez’s team from the day she joined us in 2004.

Kathy juggles many important administrative tasks at the practice. Her area of expertise patient care and she has a unique ability to create solutions that are most efficient. Kathy works tirelessly to ensure a patient’s comfort and convenience throughout their appointments. Her sincere hospitality and warm smile is what welcomes new and familiar faces alike.

Kathy has lived in Pinellas County since 1970. She has been happily married to her husband Steve since 1991. She adores her 2 sons and their families, she is especially blessed by her 4 beautiful grandchildren. Outside of work, Kathy enjoys spending time with her family, loves to travel, appreciates her Church life and loves the Florida life of surf, sun and sand.

Doris is an amazing part of the team with Dr. Menendez! She joined the team in 1999 as Financial/Insurance Coordinator and has been doing a fantastic job ever since then. Doris came to Palm Harbor from Pennsylvania, where she graduated from the Lyons Technical Institute for Dental Assisting in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania in 1987.

Doris is extremely detail oriented and is passionate about helping patients understand their insurance and payment options. She has three Children Sara who also works with Dr. Menendez as a Dental Assistant, David and Madison.

Doris' greatest joy is being a proud mother to her wonderful family. During her time off she loves fishing, walking, kick boxing, watching football and the company of her three grand puppies.

Doris says, "Working with patients on an individual basis to help achieve their goals is something I take a lot of pride in. Assisting patients with their often complicated insurance benefits is one way I help them to receive the dental care they deserve. It is truly an honor to help those families who have chosen us as their oral healthcare providers. I value this opportunity whole-heartedly."