Saar Dental Specialists Centre has been setting the standard for oral healthcare excellence since its establishment in 2010. Kristian Harrison sat down with its Founder and Managing Director, Dr. Zahra Majeed, to find out how humble beginnings led to one of the Kingdom’s most successful health stories.
Since childhood, Ms. Majeed has had a longstanding passion for the medical field, science and art. As a youngster, she recalls her brother, a medical student at the time, and her parents’ suggestion of pursuing dentistry as major influences. “Dentistry allowed me to combine science with creativity. It’s a profession where I can work with my hands and help people, which is incredibly fulfilling,” she explains.
Saar Dental, under Dr. Majeed’s leadership, has distinguished itself with a unique approach to patient care. Her initial vision was to create a dental centre that felt more like a spa, offering patients a relaxed atmosphere where their anxieties could be alleviated. This philosophy has paid off, as Saar Dental was awarded the prestigious Dental Spa of the Year. “We wanted to create a space where patients didn’t feel nervous or anxious about their treatments. Winning the award was a testament to our commitment to that vision,” she says.
According to Dr. Majeed, the centre’s ethos revolves around listening carefully to patients and offering personalised solutions. “What sets us apart from other clinics is that we tailor our services to meet our patients’ expectations,” she shares. The clinic offers a range of services, from routine check-ups and cleaning to orthodontics and cosmetic procedures like Invisalign.
Interestingly, Dr. Majeed highlights that many of the orthodontic issues she encounters, especially in children, are genetic, often manifesting as jaw discrepancies or crowded teeth. These issues are prevalent in the region, along with a high demand for dental restorations including bonded restorations.
Dr. Majeed is passionate about mentorship and education, particularly for young dentists. With over three decades of experience, she feels it’s important to pass on her knowledge to the next generation. She has plans to collaborate with schools to provide dental health education, and hopes to inspire more young people to enter the field.
When it comes to dental care at home, she swears by the basics. “Always use a soft brush and warm salt water for rinsing. It’s the simplest, most cost-effective remedy for good gum health, and it works wonders,” she advises. “Good gum health is the foundation of all dental treatments.”
Finally, Dr. Majeed stresses the importance of regular check-ups to avoid costly and complex dental procedures down the line. “People who are afraid of seeking dental care often delay their visits, but regular check-ups help us catch dental issues early. It’s much easier and less expensive to treat problems before they become severe,” she concludes.
One memorable patient story that stands out for Dr. Majeed is that of a single mother who had lost her husband and was struggling financially. Her teeth were in poor condition, and she hadn’t smiled in years due to her anxiety about her appearance. Dr. Majeed and her team offered the woman discounted care, transforming her smile through bonded restorations. “The day we finished her treatment, she looked in the mirror, started crying, and hugged me. She said it was the first time she had smiled in years,” Dr. Majeed recalls. “Moments like these are what drives me; it’s not about the money – it’s about making an impact on people’s lives.”
