Dr. Frances Ballagas, DMD
Dr. Frances Ballagas was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She has always been passionate about dentistry and has dedicated her career to providing exceptional patient care. Throughout her journey, she has been involved in various volunteer efforts, including the Good Samaritan Dental Clinic and Give Kids a Smile. She has also shared her expertise as an Assistant Professor in pre-clinical education at both the University of Florida School of Dentistry and the University of Alabama School of Dentistry during her Endodontic training.
Dr. Ballagas earned both her undergraduate degree and Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from the University of Puerto Rico, graduating with highest honors.
She then completed a General Practice Residency at the University of Minnesota Medical Center. After practicing as a general dentist in Central Florida for six years, she pursued an Endodontic Fellowship at the University of Florida, followed by a two-year Endodontic Residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where she also gained additional clinical experience at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Dr. Ballagas is Board Certified by the American Board of Endodontics, demonstrating her commitment to the highest standards of patient care and clinical excellence. In addition, she has contributed to the field by serving on the Educational Affairs Committee for the American Association of Endodontists.
Education & Training
Endodontic Residency (2011) – University of Alabama at Birmingham, School of Dentistry
Endodontic Fellowship (2009) – University of Florida, Gainesville, School of Dentistry
General Practice Residency (2002) – University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, School of Dentistry
Doctor of Dental Medicine, DMD (2001) – University of Puerto Rico, San Juan (Graduated with Highest Honors)
Bachelor of Science, B.S. (1997) – University of Puerto Rico, San Juan (Graduated with Highest Honors)
Honors & Awards
Student Achievement Award in Endodontics – American Association of Endodontists
Pierre Fauchard Award – University of Puerto Rico School of Dentistry
Student Award of Merit – American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry
Academic Excellence Award – University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Outstanding Contribution to Clinical Outreach Programs – University of Minnesota
Outstanding Achievement Award in Pre-clinical Fixed Prosthodontics
Professional Affiliations
American Association of Endodontists
American Dental Association
Florida Dental Association
Florida Association of Endodontics
Pan-American Dental Society
Dental Society of Greater Orlando
Central Florida Association
Beyond Dentistry
Outside of her practice, Dr. Ballagas enjoys spending quality time with her two daughters. She has a love for reading, cooking, biking, exercising, and traveling.