Since her own orthodontics treatment at age 12, Dr. Zahra Heidari had the dream
of becoming an Orthodontist. Graduating from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, Dr. Heidari received her Orthodontics Specialty Certificate and Masters in Oral Biology (M.S.). While at Maryland, Dr. Heidari participated on the Craniofacial and Cleft Palate teams at Johns Hopkins University Hospital and Kernan Medical Center.

During her residency at the University of Maryland, she conducted 2 original researches, one was focused on using a computer software (Abaqus) to predict the changes in orofacial complex due to orthodontics treatment.The novel approach to using the Finite Element software introduce by Dr. Heidari is undergoing publication. Her other research was focused on sleep apnea where she collaborated with well known names who are focused in the field of Sleep apnea.

Dr. Heidari’s interests are in craniofacial growth and development, as well as in
the treatment of children and adults with craniofacial abnormalities and sleep apnea. She enjoys working with all age groups and loves her patients. Dr. Heidari is committed to excellence and esthetic advancements in the specialty of orthodontics, and is experienced in twin brackets, self-ligating brackets, Invisalign, temporary anchorage devices (TAD’s/ Mini-screws), laser gingival procedures, and multi-disciplinary orthodontic treatment needs.
Dr. Heidari is an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and the Mid-Atlantic Society of Orthodontists (MASO).
When she is not in the clinic Dr. Heidari and her husband Dr. Ali Shariati enjoy camping and hiking.

Publications:
– “Intermittent hypoxia in utero damages postnatal growth and cardiovascular function in rats.” Chen, Ling, Zahra Heidari Zadi, Jin Zhang, Steven M. Scharf, and Eung-Kwon Pae. Journal of Applied Physiology (2017).
– “A Use of Finite Element Analysis on Interarch Mechanics for Class II.” Zahra Heidari Zadi, Amir Jafari, Ali Shariati, Eung-Kwon Pae. Poster presentation, AAO 2018 Annual session in Washington DC.
– “Gingival Clefts Revisited – Evaluation of the characteristics that make one more susceptible to gingival clefts.” Dina Stappert, Robert Geiman, Zahra Heidari, Mark
– Reynolds. American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics (To be punished on November, 2018)