Every professional journey is shaped by moments that quietly set the course for the future, often long before their significance is fully understood.
For Dr. Fidha Nazeer, Specialist Orthodontist at Avance Dental Clinic, the inspiration to pursue dentistry traces back to a simple yet meaningful moment from her early years. She recalls her father expressing his hope that she would one day become an orthodontist, at a time when she herself had little understanding of what orthodontics truly involved. What remained clear, however, was her path toward dentistry.
During her time in dental school, she was introduced to a wide range of specialties. Like most undergraduate students, her clinical training spanned general procedures such as fillings, extractions, scaling, and root canal treatments. Orthodontics, while part of the curriculum, stood apart as a highly specialized field with limited clinical exposure. This very distinction sparked her curiosity, encouraging her to explore it further.
When the time came to choose her postgraduate specialization, she found herself at a crossroads between Prosthodontics and Orthodontics. Initially stepping into a Prosthodontics residency, she soon realized that something felt amiss. Her thoughts frequently drifted toward orthodontics, prompting her to reassess her decision. Trusting her instinct, she transitioned to the Orthodontic department, a choice she considers one of the most defining decisions of her career.
Today, she views orthodontics as far more than the alignment of teeth. For her, it is about transforming confidence and enabling patients to embrace their smiles. Witnessing that moment when a patient smiles freely for the first time after treatment is deeply rewarding, reinforcing her passion and purpose in the field.
Let’s delve into the interview details below!
In your role at Avance Dental Clinic, what are your key responsibilities, and how do you ensure every patient receives personalized orthodontic care?
I work as a Specialist Orthodontist at Avance Dental clinic, and my key responsibilities include diagnosing and planning comprehensive orthodontic treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. I manage a wide variety of cases, including preventive and interceptive orthodontics for growing patients, comprehensive fixed appliance therapy using metal and ceramic braces, as well as clear aligner treatments, including Invisalign and our in-house aligner system.
Every treatment plan begins with careful diagnosis, detailed clinical evaluation, and understanding each patient’s concerns, expectations, lifestyle, and long-term goals. No two patients are alike, and I believe good orthodontic care is personalization.
How would you describe your approach to leadership and collaboration when working with fellow dental professionals to achieve the best treatment outcomes?
I believe effective leadership in healthcare begins with good communication, mutual respect, and teamwork. My professor always said, ‘The right treatment planning is the most important aspect of orthodontics, and I live by that. I always believe in evaluating every patient with a holistic approach. A patient may come to me with the expectation of simply getting their teeth aligned, but as orthodontists, our responsibility goes beyond that. While orthodontists often lead the treatment planning process, achieving the best outcomes is always a collaborative effort. It is important to evaluate the overall oral health and needs of the patient. Some patients may require restorative treatment, periodontal care, extractions, or input from other dental specialists before we begin orthodontic treatment. This is where collaboration becomes extremely important. I believe the best treatment outcomes are achieved when we work together as a team towards a common goal.
What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced throughout your career in orthodontics, and how have they contributed to your growth as a specialist?
One of the most significant transitions in my career was moving from India, where I completed my postgraduate training, back to Dubai to begin practicing as a Specialist Orthodontist.
Although I was born and raised in Dubai, practicing here introduced me to an incredibly diverse patient population representing different cultures, languages, expectations, and treatment approaches. Every patient brings unique perspectives regarding aesthetics, communication, and healthcare decisions. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability and effective communication. Beyond clinical knowledge, I learned that listening carefully and understanding each patient’s expectations are just as important for a favourable treatment outcome.
Working in such a multicultural environment has broadened my perspective as a clinician and has made a more confident orthodontist.
Orthodontics continues to evolve with new technologies and treatment methods. How do you stay updated with the latest advancements to provide the highest standard of care?
The field of healthcare is constantly evolving, and I believe continuous learning is an essential responsibility for every clinician. Early in my career, I pursued certification in clear aligner therapy because I recognized the growing demand for aesthetic and digitally driven treatment options. Today, clear aligners have become an important part of my clinical practice, allowing me to offer patients comfortable and discreet treatment alternatives whenever needed.
In addition, I regularly participate in continuing dental education programs, conferences, webinars, and professional workshops organized by local and international orthodontic organizations. These opportunities allow me to stay informed about emerging technologies and evidence-based treatment approaches.
I also hope to pursue additional internationally recognized advanced training in the future, as I believe learning never truly stops in our profession.
Which professional achievements, recognitions, or career milestones are you most proud of, and what do they mean to you personally?
One milestone I will always cherish is being the Gold Medalist during my postgraduate orthodontic training at Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Mangalore. It remains one of the proudest moments of my academic journey.
Another significant achievement was obtaining my Specialist Orthodontist license in the UAE. Practicing as a licensed specialist in Dubai, a city known for its high standards of healthcare, was an important professional milestone for me.
I am also proud that Avance Dental Clinic was the first clinic I joined after returning to Dubai, and it continues to be where I practice today. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to grow professionally, manage increasingly complex cases, and continually refine my clinical skills.
Dentistry is a demanding profession. How do you maintain a healthy balance between your clinical responsibilities and your personal life while continuing to grow professionally?
Dentistry is undoubtedly demanding, and maintaining balance is something I consciously prioritize. Outside the clinic, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. Having been born and raised in Dubai, I have a strong social circle here, and I genuinely value those relationships. I enjoy making the most of my weekends, whether that’s exploring new places, spending quality time with loved ones, or simply unwinding after a busy week. I also believe physical health plays an important role in maintaining mental focus and professional performance. Staying active and taking care of my fitness helps me recharge and return to work with renewed energy. For me, maintaining balance isn’t about separating work from life; it’s about making time for the people and activities that keep me motivated, happy, and grounded.
What advice would you give to aspiring orthodontists, and what are your long-term goals for your career and the future of orthodontic care?
Orthodontics requires patience, precision, and long-term commitment. The results are rarely immediate, but the impact can be life-changing. Watching a patient transform, not only in their smile but also in their confidence, is one of the greatest privileges of this profession. Every completed case reminds me that we are helping people smile with confidence, communicate more freely, and feel better about themselves. That responsibility is both humbling and incredibly rewarding.
Looking ahead, I hope to continue advancing my knowledge through ongoing education and exposure to emerging technologies and innovative treatment techniques. My goal is to continually refine my skills so that I can provide the highest standard of orthodontic care while contributing positively to the future of our profession.
