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I'm Laila Hishaw
DDS, FACD, FICD, FPFA, FAAPD
Department Chair. Educator. Speaker. Mentor.
I serve as Chair of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry and an Edward P. Nelson Endowed Professor at the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Dentistry. Throughout my career, I've believed that the greatest impact we can make isn't measured by titles—it's measured by the people we mentor, the students we inspire, and the communities we serve.
After more than 25 years as a dentist, I'm honored to help educate the next generation of dental leaders while continuing to advance mentorship, leadership, and opportunity through my speaking, writing, and nonprofit work.
→ DR. HISHAW'S UMKC FACULTY PROFILE
From the beginning...
Raised in Kansas City by a strong mother and pioneering grandmother, I grew up surrounded by love, resilience, and the thrill of competitive figure skating. Inspired by my late father, a compassionate dentist from Iran, I eventually found my true calling in dentistry.
After earning my DDS with honors and completing a pediatric dental residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, I made it my mission to transform children’s oral health. After more than two decades in private practice as Founding Partner of Tucson Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, I felt called to return to my alma mater, UMKC, where I now have the privilege of educating future pediatric dentists and helping shape the future of our profession.
Community Involvement
Community is the heartbeat of my mission. I’m proud to be an active member of:
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Associate of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. – Raising the next generation of African-American leaders.
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Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. – The first historically African-American sorority.
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Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation, Board Member – Supporting access to oral healthcare in underserved communities.
- ADA Advisory Committee on Equity, Inclusion & Interpersonal Relationships
MY PASSIONS
Educating. Mentoring. Building the Future.
I believe dentistry is about far more than clinical excellence—it's about developing people.
Whether I'm teaching students, speaking to audiences across the country, or collaborating with colleagues, my greatest passion is helping others discover their potential and empowering them to become confident, compassionate leaders. There is nothing more rewarding than watching someone grow because they were given the opportunity, encouragement, and support to succeed.
That same passion inspired me to found Mentorships in Dentistry (MIND), my legacy project and a national nonprofit dedicated to expanding opportunity within the oral health profession. Through mentorship, hands-on experiences, scholarships, and educational programs, we're creating pathways from middle school to dental school—helping more students see themselves in dentistry and equipping the next generation to lead with purpose.
I believe the greatest legacy we can leave isn't measured by what we accomplish ourselves, but by the lives we help shape along the way.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MY SPEAKING →AS SEEN IN:
Achievements
As a board-certified pediatric dentist and Fellow of four prestigious dental organizations, I represent less than 3% of dentists nationally. Highlights of my career include:
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Being featured on Mystery Diagnosis for identifying a rare neurological disorder in a patient
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Named Tucson’s Top Dentist™ by Tucson Lifestyle every year since 2012
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Serving on the Arizona Dental Board as an Anesthesia Evaluator
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Alumna of the ADA Institute for Diversity in Leadership and current member of its Council on Diversity and Inclusion
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Edward P. Nelson Endowed ChairUMKC Alumni Achievement Award
Family
My family is my foundation. I’m married to Dr. Alex Hishaw, a neurologist and educator, and together we’re raising three incredible humans. Whether we're traveling together or enjoying a Star Wars marathon, these moments remind me that the most meaningful leadership begins at home.
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The R.E.A.L. Leadership Blueprint
Inclusive Strategies for Thriving Teams
Discover Dr. Laila’s powerful framework for building inclusive, high-performing teams with respect, empathy, authenticity, and legacy.
