MEET DR. ZAINAB NASAFI
Clairemont
Dr. Nasafi chose dentistry to blend science, medicine, and art for enhancing smiles and confidence. A graduate of NYU, she values the collaborative and supportive atmosphere within the Dental Express team, emphasizing teamwork’s positive impact. Outside work, she enjoys hiking, hot yoga, and time with her dog. Actively cultivating the team, she emphasizes clinical leadership and mutual support.
The highlight of her career is contributing to patients’ confident smiles. Emphasizing integrity and collaboration, her greatest challenge lies in meeting diverse patient needs. Inspired by her mother, who pursued a new degree in her 40s while raising four children, Dr. Nasafi showcases resilience and determination.
Why did you become a dentist?
I like to help others. It’s a skill set where you can use science and medicine and art to make people smile. Helping people with their smile and confidence is so rewarding.
Where did you go to dental school?
I attended New York University for dental school.
What is your favorite part of your dental practice?
My favorite part of my dental practice is that everyone is so nice and helpful. The teamwork, whether in the office or from corporate, makes the day a success. I value the positive impact each team member brings. I also love working with the other doctors in our office.
What are your passions outside of dentistry?
I like hiking, hot yoga, and spending time with my dog.
How do you help cultivate the Dental Express team?
I enjoy taking on clinical leadership as a dentist and also being supportive of the team. I take time to teach the dental assistants, and we all come out stronger being on the same page.
What would you say is the highlight of your career?
The highlight is being about to give someone a great smile. I have also found that by using dentures or crowns, I can help some patients reach their goals. I’m in a partnership with each patient.
Of Dental Express’ five core values (integrity, empathy, adaptability, collaboration, and whistle while you work) which do you feel is the most valuable to you as a dentist?
Definitely integrity. It’s really important to give quality work and do it right the first time. Second is collaboration. That’s my favorite part working in the Clairemont office. I love the team from the front to the back. The people bring me joy to come to work each day.
What is your greatest challenge working as a dentist?
I think my greatest challenge is that everyone is different. Everyone’s mouth and needs are different; everyone’s personality is different too. I like getting to know my patients better so I can learn what works best for them.
Who is your hero?
My mom. She went back to school in her 40s and got a new degree in like a language that she just learned. I admire that. Anytime I’m facing a challenge, I remind myself that my mom had it so much harder, and she got it done with four kids.
