At Sampaio Dental, we’re proud to offer more than expert care. We offer genuine relationships. Led by Dr. Sampaio, our Cape Coral, FL team is committed to providing a welcoming, personalized experience for every patient. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, you’ll be greeted by professionals who truly care about your comfort, health, and smile. Get to know the faces behind the care you trust.
Dr. Rafaella Sampaio
Premier Dentist In Cape Coral, FL
Dr. Rafaella Sampaio was born in Brazil and moved to the outskirts of Boston, MA at a young age. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and received her dental degree from Boston University. She is passionate about comprehensive care and takes pride in creating a comfortable, personalized experience for every patient.
Her husband, Eddie, is a third-generation Fort Myers native and the reason she relocated to beautiful southwest Florida. Together, they’re raising two children, Thomas and Isabella, who fill their lives with joy and keep them on their toes. Outside of the office, Dr. Sampaio enjoys spending time with her family, being involved in her church, and binge-watching the latest Netflix series. After working closely with Dr. Allison, she is proud to carry on his legacy with a team that shares her values in patient-focused care.
Dr. Diana Barajas
Associate Dentist
Dr. Diana Barajas was born in Bogota, Colombia and moved to Miami, Florida with her family at the age of five. She comes from a family of dentists; starting with her grandfather, then father, her brother, and her husband, so naturally she gravitated towards dentistry. After attending college, she moved back to Colombia and graduated from dental school in 1994.
She moved back to the U.S. in 2000, where she obtained her DDS degree at the University of Colorado in 2006. She worked as an associate for Dr. Edmond Allison for 4 years and eventually moved on to acquire her own office in Estero, FL.
Due to medical issues, Dr. Barajas decided to take a 2-year sabbatical from dentistry. Dr. Barajas and her husband of 34 years, Mario, are proud to have two amazing adult children, Nico and Sofi, who are well on their way to becoming MDs.
Dr. Barajas is now in better health and very enthusiastic about providing the utmost dental care to her patients. She is very passionate about oral health and believes good oral health is imperative for overall better systemic and spiritual health.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, reading, playing tennis, playing golf, and doing yoga.
Meet Our Team
Friendly Faces Behind Every Smile
At the heart of Sampaio Dental is a team that shares a deep commitment to patient care, comfort, and connection. Every team member plays an essential role in making your visit feel supportive from start to finish.
Kirsten
Office Manager
Kirsten, also known as “KT,” has been a dedicated part of the dental field for 20+ years, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to both chairside assisting, treatment coordination, and practice leadership. With her warm, welcoming, and upbeat personality, she helps create a comfortable and positive experience for every patient. Outside the office, she is a proud hockey mom to three sons and has been happily married for 30 years. Her family shares a love for most sports and often enjoys watching events together. And if there’s water nearby, you’ll find her smiling, because to her, water makes everything better!
Carina
Patient Care Coordinator
With over six years of experience as a dental assistant and patient coordinator, Carina brings both clinical expertise and exceptional customer service to every patient interaction. With a strong foundation in chairside assisting, sterilization protocols, and dental procedures, she ensures smooth and efficient support for dentists, hygienists, and patients alike.
In the administration role, Carina takes pride in creating a welcoming environment while managing scheduling, patient communications, and professionalism.
Her passion lies in helping patients feel comfortable and informed with new technology to make each visit smoother and more efficient. Whether assisting during procedures or guiding patients through treatment plans and billing, she strives to provide a seamless, positive experience from the moment a patient walks in.
Outside of work, she enjoys working out and spending time with her husband and two small Quaker parrots.
Janice
Insurance Coordinator
Born and raised in Cape Coral, Janice Zarick brings a hometown warmth and extensive experience to our team. As our dedicated Insurance Coordinator, Janice is known for her exceptional attention to detail, approachable personality, and persuasive communication style—especially when advocating with insurance companies on behalf of our patients. Janice works tirelessly to help patients understand and maximize their dental benefits, making what can often be a confusing process feel clear and manageable. Her commitment to patient care and her deep understanding of insurance policies ensure that our patients receive the most from their coverage.
Outside the office, Janice enjoys volunteering at her church and, most of all, spending time with her four grandchildren—who lovingly call her “NayNay,” a title she holds most proudly. She has been happily married to her husband, Ed, and is the proud mother of two sons., Eddie and Dusty.
Emily
Patient Care Coordinator
Born and raised in Hollywood, Florida, Emily brings over eight years of experience in dental office administration and patient care coordination. Fascinated by the world of dentistry, she entered the field eager to expand her knowledge and contribute meaningfully to patient care. From the start, her ability to connect effortlessly with patients and her natural warmth have helped create the friendly, welcoming atmosphere our office is known for.
Outside of work, Emily enjoys spending quality time with her husband, Erick, and their baby boy, cherishing those special moments with family.
Joan
Registered Dental Hygienist
Joan joined the practice in 2011 and brings over 50 years of Florida living to her role. Originally from New Jersey, she has a deep-rooted passion for patient care and education. She’s active in the dental community, serving on the Advisory Board for Florida SouthWestern College’s dental hygiene program. Known for her friendly approach and attention to detail, Joan helps patients feel relaxed and informed. In her free time, she enjoys fishing, boating, reading, and hosting friends at home.
Laura
Registered Dental Hygienist
Laura was born and raised in Cuba, where her mother introduced her to the dental field early on. She focuses on educating patients so they feel confident and comfortable with their oral health. Her goal is to make each visit informative, relaxing, and positive. When she’s not treating patients, Laura enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, traveling, playing dominoes, and savoring her daily cafecito.
Jennifer
Registered Dental Hygienist
Born and raised in SWFL and a proud graduate of Mariner High School, class of 2010. After finding her passion in dental hygiene, Jennifer graduated from FSW’s amazing dental hygiene program in 2016. She worked locally for a year before heading to North Carolina in 2017 for a change of pace. Now that she’s back home, Jennifer is loving seeing her hometown through a fresh perspective.
When she’s not on the hunt for plaque, Jennifer is hanging out with her favorite guy, her dog, Henry. Jennifer is always up for fur baby stories, so she welcomes her patients to share! She also loves working out, snowboarding, traveling, and discovering the best new spots to eat. Jennifer is always eager to talk to her patients and be part of their dental care journey.
Jodi
Lead Certified Dental Assistant
Jodi has been a certified dental assistant for over 30 years and brings advanced clinical training to her role. She received her certification from the University of Florida and has completed continuing education in dental implants, same-day crowns, digital x-rays, whitening, and more. Jodi is known for her calming demeanor and welcoming personality. She’s been married for 27 years and is proud of her two sons. When away from the office, she enjoys crafts, music, decorating, and time with family.
Jenni
Certified Dental Assistant
Jenni brings dedication, knowledge, and warmth to her role. Patients appreciate her gentle approach and attention to detail. As part of the clinical team, she supports both patient comfort and clinical excellence with everything she does.
Andi
Certified Dental Assistant
Andi brings energy and creativity to her role. She graduated at the top of her class and is certified in expanded duties and dental radiographs. Since joining the team, she has helped improve both patient care and internal systems through innovative thinking and teamwork.
She enjoys learning from colleagues, connecting with patients, and bringing a sense of ease to every visit. Outside of work, Andi loves outdoor adventures, caring for animals, and discovering new hobbies.
We’re Here, The Team You Can Count On
At Sampaio Dental, compassionate care is at the heart of everything we do. From our doctor to each member of our team, we’re here to make your experience comfortable, personalized, and positive every step of the way.
