REAL Leadership for Thriving Teams

Laila Hishaw, DDS, FACD, FICD, FPFA, FAAPD, Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist, Founding Partner at Tucson Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, and Founder and Executive Director of Mentorships in Dentistry, Inc. (MIND), is a nationally recognized champion for mentorship, belonging, and leadership in dentistry. With 25 years of clinical experience in her private practice and the bestselling author of Cavity Free Kids, she is a trusted voice in children’s oral health and health equity. Through MIND, formerly Diversity in Dentistry Mentorships, Dr. Hishaw is building bridges between access and opportunity, guiding students primarily from underrepresented backgrounds from middle school to dental school, through hands-on learning, mentorship, and leadership development. A Fellow in four prestigious dental academies, her accolades include the 2024 UMKC School of Dentistry Alumni Achievement Award, 2024 NDA Phenomenal Woman of Excellence, and Arizona Dental Association Mentor of the Year. Dr. Hishaw serves on the ADA Advisory Committee on Equity, Inclusion, and Interpersonal Relationships and the Task Force to Eliminate Barriers for Underrepresented Minorities. As a speaker and executive coach, she equips healthcare leaders to lead with purpose, foster belonging, and build lasting legacies.