About Altamar Dental Studio

Our Story

Altamar Dental Studio was born from a simple but powerful realization: patients deserve better than being treated as numbers on an assembly line.

After years of working in larger corporate practices, Dr. Shirley Marquez saw firsthand how the pressure to see more patients faster was compromising the quality of care. Appointments were rushed. Treatment plans were explained in seconds. Patients left confused, anxious, and unsure about their care.

She knew there had to be a better way—a practice where unhurried appointments were the norm, where patients felt genuinely heard, and where clinical decisions were driven by what's best for the patient, not by insurance reimbursement rates.

Together with her husband Dr. Marino, she founded Altamar Dental Studio in Naples—a practice built on the belief that exceptional dentistry requires time, attention, and a genuine commitment to each person who walks through the door.

Today, Altamar represents everything they wished their own dental experiences had been: personalized, unhurried, transparent, and focused on long-term relationships rather than transactional visits.

Dr. Marino and Dr. Marquez at Altamar Dental Studio

Meet Our Doctors

Dr. Marino, DDS

Co-Founder & Dentist

Dr. Marino's journey to dentistry began in Cuba, where he grew up watching his parents—both physicians—dedicate their lives to healing others. When his family escaped communist persecution and came to America, he carried with him a deep understanding of service, sacrifice, and the privilege of caring for others.

Dentistry became the perfect canvas for Dr. Marino's dual passions: serving people and creating something beautiful. He earned his DDS from Meharry Medical College and completed his General Practice Residency, bringing over 10 years of experience to Naples—a community he's proud to call home.

For Dr. Marino, every smile tells a story. Whether it's helping someone regain confidence with a smile makeover or simply making a child's first dental visit comfortable, he approaches each patient with genuine care and artistry.

When he's not in the office, you'll find Dr. Marino cheering loudly for FC Naples, competing on the pickleball court (he even created his own pickleball brand, Altamar Society, complete with the Tridente 1.0 paddle), or hunting for the next addition to his watch collection. He's also known to keep a stash of Hot Wheels in the office—not for himself, but to see the smiles on kids' faces when they pick one out after their visit.

Dr. Marino lives in Naples with his wife Dr. Marquez, their daughter Elizabeth, and a deep gratitude for the country that gave his family a second chance. Faith, family, and community aren't just values to him—they're the foundation of everything he does.

Dr. Shirley Marquez, DDS

Co-Founder & Dentist

Dr. Marquez discovered her calling early. Growing up in Cuba, she spent her summer vacations shadowing the local dentist, fascinated by the combination of science, artistry, and the immediate impact she could see on patients' lives. By the time she was a teenager, she knew: she wanted to create smiles for a living.

That dream led her to Meharry Medical College, where she earned her DDS, followed by a General Practice Residency with the Veterans Affairs—an experience that deepened her commitment to serving those who serve. Before opening Altamar Dental Studio with her husband Dr. Marino, Dr. Marquez gained valuable experience in larger practices. But she quickly realized something was missing: patients were being rushed through appointments, treated as numbers rather than people.

That realization became the driving force behind Altamar. Dr. Marquez wanted to create a practice where every patient receives unhurried attention, where treatment plans are thoroughly explained, and where people feel genuinely cared for—not processed.

Dr. Marquez is fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, allowing her to connect with Naples' diverse community in the language they're most comfortable speaking. She has a special gift for working with children and older adults, bringing patience, empathy, and warmth to every interaction.

She's the heart of Altamar Dental Studio—the one who ensures every detail is perfect, every patient feels valued, and every smile tells a story of compassionate care. When she's not in the office, you'll find her watching Naples' legendary sunsets, staying active in community events, and spending time with her husband and daughter Elizabeth.

Our Philosophy

We believe dentistry should be about people, not transactions. About relationships, not revenue. About doing what's right, not what's covered by insurance.

You're a Person, Not 32 Teeth

We don't just treat teeth—we care for people. Your oral health is connected to your overall health, your confidence, your quality of life. We take the time to understand your goals, your concerns, and your unique situation.

Unhurried Appointments

We schedule appointments with enough time to do things right. No rushing, no cutting corners, no feeling like you're on an assembly line. You deserve our full attention.

Clinical Integrity

As a self-pay practice, we're free from insurance company restrictions. Our recommendations are based solely on what's best for your health—not on what an insurance company will reimburse.

Transparency Always

We explain everything clearly and discuss costs upfront. You'll never be surprised by a bill or confused about your treatment. We use chairside monitors so you can see exactly what we see.

Long-Term Relationships

We're not interested in one-time transactions. We want to be your dental home for life—watching your family grow, celebrating milestones, and maintaining your health for decades to come.

Rooted in Community

Naples isn't just where we practice—it's where we live, where our daughter goes to school, where we cheer for FC Naples. We're invested in this community because it's our home too.

Fully Digital Practice

We've invested in the most advanced dental technology available—not because it's trendy, but because it delivers better outcomes, more accurate diagnoses, and more comfortable experiences.

iTero Lumina Scanner

No more gagging on goopy impressions. Our digital scanner captures incredibly precise 3D images in minutes—comfortable, accurate, and instant.

CBCT 3D Imaging

Three-dimensional imaging reveals what traditional X-rays can't. We can plan implants with precision, detect hidden issues, and provide more accurate diagnoses.

In-House 3D Printing

Custom surgical guides, temporary restorations, and orthodontic appliances created right here in our office. Faster turnaround, better precision.

Digital Records

Everything is digital, secure, and easily accessible. No more lost paperwork, no more waiting for records to transfer.