Sanaz Merchi, DMD
Pediatric Dentist

What inspired you to pursue a career in pediatric dentistry?
When my mother was pregnant with me, she was prescribed tetracyclines, which had an unfortunate effect on my developing teeth. As my primary teeth began to emerge, they were brittle and weak, eventually leading to their premature loss. As you can imagine, this significantly impacted my confidence and social interactions. Fortunately, my pediatric dentist was extraordinary. He crafted a set of “pedo partials” that allowed me to smile with confidence once again. It was his kindness and skill that inspired me, at the tender age of seven, to pursue a career in pediatric dentistry —to provide other children with the same care and support he had given me.

As a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist, what do you find most rewarding about working with children and their families?
There is nothing more rewarding than helping children feel comfortable and safe in the dental environment, particularly those who may feel anxious at first. Transforming a potentially intimidating visit into a positive experience is deeply fulfilling. By building trust and establishing a connection, I can change their perception of dental care, laying the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. The creativity involved in engaging with children, whether through humor, storytelling or playful explanations, is one of the most enjoyable aspects of my job. Every day brings a new adventure, and there is never a dull moment.

How has your international background and upbringing influenced your perspective as a dentist and healthcare provider?
Growing up as an Iranian Baha’i has deeply ingrained in me a strong sense of cultural sensitivity, enabling me to connect with patients from diverse backgrounds and tailor their care to respect their unique needs and beliefs. Navigating different environments has sharpened my ability to think creatively and problem-solve—skills that are essential for  providing personalized and effective dental care. My upbringing nurtured a profound empathy, allowing me to approach each patient with understanding and compassion. For example, in some cultures, there is a common belief that baby teeth don’t require treatment because they will eventually be replaced by adult teeth. My experiences have helped me  break down these misconceptions and educate families with greater ease. Above all, growing up in a country marked by significant wealth inequality has shaped a mission-driven mindset, fueling my passion for community outreach and global service. Th is passion drives my commitment to making a meaningful impact on the lives of others, whether through mission trips or other outreach efforts.

Florida to Colorado is quite a change, what influenced your decision to move from the Sunshine State to the Centennial State?
I’ve always loved visiting Colorado and seeing the mountains, it felt nostalgic to my childhood memories from Iran. Thus, when the opportunity came, I didn’t hesitate to make the move to Colorado.

If you could recommend one Colorado experience to your patients or fellow dentists, what would it be?
A sunrise hike at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Watching the sun come up over the iconic red rock formations is an unforgettable experience. It’s peaceful but energizing, and a great way to start the day with a fresh perspective. Plus, it’s close to Denver, so it’s an easy and rewarding escape that I think everyone can appreciate.

How do you stay motivated and inspired personally and professionally?
By keeping a clear vision of the life I want to create—owning my own pediatric dental practice, traveling, doing mission trips and having the freedom to pursue my interests. Personally, spending time outdoors, exploring new places and connecting with my community fuels my energy. Professionally, I try to stay engaged by learning new techniques and collaborating with other dentists. Keeping that balance between growth, service and adventure keeps me driven.

How have some of your hobbies like yoga or baking helped you find balance in your career and personal life?
Yoga and baking give me space to unwind and reset. Yoga keeps me grounded, helps me manage stress and is a great way to stay present and focused. Baking, on the other hand, allows me to be creative and enjoy the simple satisfaction of making something from scratch. Both give me a chance to step away from work, recharge, and come back with fresh energy and perspective. They remind me to take care of myself, which ultimately makes me better at caring for my patients.

Is there any advice you would like to pass on to fellow new dentists?
Absolutely! I would say, stay curious and never stop learning. Dentistry is always evolving, and staying open to new techniques and technologies can set you apart. Build strong relationships with your patients and their families—trust and communication are just as important as clinical skills.

Also, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Burnout is real, so find hobbies and activities that help you recharge. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who inspire and challenge you. Most importantly, remember why you chose this path—keeping that passion at the forefront will guide you through the ups and downs of your career.

What motivated you to join the MDDS Membership Committee?
I wanted to connect with other dental professionals and contribute to strengthening our local dental community. Being part of a network that supports growth, collaboration and continuing education is invaluable, especially as a transplant. I’m passionate about creating spaces where dentists can share experiences, learn from each other and feel supported. It’s also been a great opportunity to give back and help shape initiatives that benefit both new and experienced dentists.

Is there any project or initiative you are most excited about?
At our last meeting, a great point was raised: the committee should organize events that offer valuable skills often not taught in school or residency. One example is financial literacy, both from a professional and personal perspective. Additionally, we could host workshops led by experienced business owners who can share their insights into scaling a practice and increasing profitability. These types of events would provide members with practical knowledge that directly impacts their success.

Looking ahead, what are your aspirations or goals within the dental field and/or outside of it?
I hope to continue growing as a pediatric dentist, eventually owning my own practice where I can provide high-quality care while fostering a positive environment for both patients and staff . I’m also eager to participate in more mission trips bringing dental care to underserved communities around the world. Outside of dentistry, I want to travel more, explore new cultures and keep on learning.