Dr. Maria Neira, DDS
Endodontist
Clinical Excellence. Personalized Care. Lifelong Oral Health.
Dr. Maria Neira brings more than two decades of experience in dentistry, advanced clinical training, and a background in dental education to Creating Smiles. She combines meticulous care with a personal commitment to helping patients preserve their natural teeth, restore comfortable function, and feel confident in their smiles.
Dr. Neira earned her dental degree from Universidad Americana in Nicaragua and completed a Fellowship in Endodontics at the University of Costa Rica. She further advanced her training through two years of Advanced Education in General Dentistry at Nova Southeastern University’s College of Dental Medicine, where she graduated at the top of her class. During her residency, she served as Chief Resident and received the 2026 Komet Clinical Excellence Award.
Her academic experience also includes serving as an Adjunct Faculty Member and Endodontic Clinical Instructor at Nova Southeastern University, where she guided dental students and residents in endodontic diagnosis and clinical procedures. Teaching strengthened her commitment to clinical precision, continued learning, and helping patients understand their care.
As a general dentist, Dr. Neira’s clinical interests include endodontics, restorative dentistry, fixed and removable prosthodontics, and comprehensive treatment planning. She approaches each case with careful attention to the relationship between oral health, function, comfort, and aesthetics.
Her philosophy centers on oral longevity: helping patients maintain healthy, functional smiles throughout their lives. Guided by the principles “Preserve. Restore. Refine.”, she emphasizes prevention, minimally invasive treatment, and the preservation of natural teeth whenever possible. Every treatment plan considers both the patient’s immediate needs and the long-term health and stability of their smile. She believes this begins with listening, explaining options clearly, and empowering patients to take an active role in their oral health.
Outside of dentistry, Dr. Neira enjoys spending time with her family and her cat, Ginger. An animal lover and fitness enthusiast, she loves the gym, outdoor exercise, and preparing healthy meals. She also enjoys expressing her creativity through crafts and cake decorating.
Our Dental Office Location
Serving a complete dental solution to the communities of St. Petersburg and surrounding areas! Contact us to make your appointment at our office location.
St. Petersburg Office
3388 49th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710
Teledentistry Now Available
Real Patient Reviews
Dr Brayer and her staff are the best in the Bay. Scratch that, Best in the world, seriously too! Most gentle hands, like a magician. Fillings, crowns, the whole nine yards, they are perfect! If you’re looking for a Dentist, google one. If you’re looking for a family to be there for you, ones with compassion, empathy and professionalism, Creating Smiles in Petersburg is who you’re looking for. Call Dana and she’ll welcome you warmly. Stella and Jess are the best there too. Sorry to sound like a Love Fest review, but that’s how you feel when you’re with them. 10 Thumbs up and 5 Stars for Creating Smiles!