Maliheh Nikzad, DDS, MSc

Assistant Professor of Dental Medicine

Dr. Nikzad is an endodontist whose research focuses on improving oral health outcomes through early detection and prevention. She emphasizes enhancing oral cancer screening protocols and raising public awareness about risk factors and the importance of regular examinations. Her work also examines the effectiveness of community-based preventive programs, such as fluoride therapy, in reducing the decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) index among underserved populations. Through these projects, she integrates oral health education as a vital strategy to expand the impact of evidence-based prevention and reduce disparities in oral health. In recognition of her contributions, she received a first-place award for Best Research in Endodontics at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston in 2024.