For Dr. Maryam Baghizadeh Fini, becoming an orthodontist has been about more than developing clinical expertise. It has been an opportunity to combine her passion for preventive oral health, research and patient care while building a career far from her home in Iran. Through the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Orthodontic Residency Program, Fini has strengthened her clinical skills, explored ways to improve patients’ oral health habits and grown both professionally and personally.
Originally from Kashan, a historic city in Iran’s Isfahan Province, Fini grew up in a family that emphasized education and perseverance. Her parents were both teachers, and their encouragement helped shape her approach to pursuing her goals. Her interest in dentistry began with a childhood dentist whose kindness made each visit a positive experience. As she progressed through dental school, her passion for orthodontics became increasingly clear.
“My mother noticed how passionate I was about orthodontics,” Fini said. “She would always tell me, ‘You should become an orthodontist!’ Looking back, I think she recognized my passion for orthodontics even before I fully realized it myself.”
Finding the Right Fit at UAB
Pursuing advanced training in the United States offered Fini an opportunity for professional growth, but the transition also meant leaving behind family, friends and the country where she was raised. With the support of her husband, Ahmadreza, and new friendships along the way, she embraced the challenge.
Fini first learned about UAB while researching orthodontic programs. A five-week mini-residency, which included lectures and clinical observation, helped confirm that the program was the right fit. She was inspired by faculty members’ clinical cases, instruction and research, as well as the welcoming environment among residents.
“By the end of those five weeks, I knew UAB was exactly where I wanted to be,” she said.
At UAB, Fini has continued developing her clinical skills while preparing for the next stage of her career. She credits the program’s faculty with providing guidance and encouragement, including support during her preparation for a major examination. Maintaining a consistent study routine alongside her clinical responsibilities required dedication, but she said faculty members’ willingness to answer questions—even on weekends—made a meaningful difference.
Researching Better Oral Health Habits
Fini’s commitment to preventive care also shapes her research. Building on her master’s thesis in Health Promotion, she studies why some adult orthodontic patients struggle to maintain good oral hygiene and what factors influence their preventive dental behaviors.
Her work reflects a belief that patient education must go beyond general instructions to brush and floss. Demonstrations, regular reminders and personalized feedback can help patients develop healthier habits and maintain better oral health throughout orthodontic treatment.
Fini hopes her research will help orthodontists better understand patients’ challenges and provide more effective education and individualized support. She is already incorporating these principles into her own patient care.
For Fini, the work also reinforces the broader purpose of healthcare: helping people live healthier lives. Participating in community initiatives such as the Brace Yourself UAB Orthodontics Smile Event and orthodontic screenings has strengthened her belief that a healthcare professional’s responsibilities extend beyond the clinic.
Growing Through Community
Although Fini has found professional fulfillment at UAB, being far from her family has been one of the most difficult parts of her journey. Missing loved ones has sometimes affected her motivation, but the experience has taught her resilience and the importance of continuing to work toward her goals.
She describes the UAB community as welcoming and supportive, with faculty members who generously share their knowledge and experience. The program has helped her grow not only as a clinician but also as a person, while reinforcing the value of building meaningful relationships with patients and colleagues.
“Being part of the UAB community has meant being surrounded by people who are welcoming, supportive, and genuinely care about your success,” Fini said. “The journey will not always be easy, but with patience, determination, and a positive attitude, it is absolutely possible to achieve your dreams.”