Meet Your Elara Orthodontics Experts in Richmond or Houston, TX

Dr. Sara Abedini

Dr. Abedini completed her specialty in orthodontics at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she graduated with honors and awards in both the clinical and academic research fields. During her time at UCLA, she was a head TA and lecturer for dental students, contributed to orthodontic research, and had presentations selected for numerous conferences.

Before starting her journey at UCLA, she earned her PhD from the Department of Orthodontics and Craniofacial Developmental Biology at Hiroshima University, Japan. During those years, Dr. Abedini published many articles in peer-reviewed journals. She also co-authored a book chapter about orthodontic treatment for patients with dentofacial deformities and syndromes.

She is a proud Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics as well as an affiliate member of the Edward H. Angle Society.

Dr. Abedini’s broad experience in the dental field since 2007 and her extensive years in education reflect her passion and love for orthodontics, particularly her patients.

After spanning many countries, Dr. Abedini has settled in Houston, where she has been practicing orthodontics and dentistry since 2017 and is passionate about supporting and building the Aliana community.

Fast Facts

Board-Certified Orthodontist – American Board of Orthodontics (ABO Diplomate)
Published Author – 20+ peer-reviewed journal articles and one academic book chapter
Fluent in Farsi, English, and Japanese
Technology Expertise – 3dMD, Dolphin, Orchestrate, Invisalign, iTero, 3Shape Trios
Clinical Expertise – Orthognathic, craniofacial, aligner treatment, indirect bonding, TADs, special needs patients
Awards – Multiple international honors for research, clinical excellence, and presentations

Academic & Research Credentials

Dr. Abedini’s research covers orthodontics, craniofacial development, and digital orthodontics. She has held research appointments at Hiroshima University and the National Institute of Biomedical Innovation, Japan, contributing to advancements in orthodontic diagnosis and biomechanics.

Selected Publications:

Craniosynostosis and Rare Clefts: Treatment of Dentofacial Deformity in Craniosynostosis (Nova Science Publisher)
Three-dimensional Soft Tissue Analysis of the Face Following Micro-implant-supported Maxillary Skeletal Expansion
Assessment of Micro-implant-assisted Rapid Maxillary Expansion in Non-growing Patients
Periodontal Ligament Cryopreservation Studies – Cryobiology, Biomed Research

Community & Beyond

Outside the Office

Dr. Sam Elkenawy

Dr. Sam Elkenawy is a board-certified orthodontist in Houston, TX. He received his Master’s and Orthodontics Certificate from the University of California, Los Angeles, where he was the chief resident. He is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists and has multiple publications related to digital orthodontics, skeletal expansion, and airway/obstructive sleep apnea. He prides himself on his expertise in complex orthodontic treatments, particularly ones requiring skeletal expansion for adults.

During consultations, Dr. Elkenawy gives patients all their options alongside his recommendation, allowing them to voice their concerns. He then creates a custom plan that suits the patient’s needs in order to achieve the best possible outcome. He is easygoing and makes patients feel comfortable, treating them as if they were his own family. He believes integrity is his most important quality.

Fast Facts

Board-Certified by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO Diplomate)
Professional Affiliations: American Association of Orthodontists (Affiliated Member)
Technical Skills: Experienced with placing mini-implants (TADs), using various clear aligner systems (including Invisalign), and treating craniofacial and special needs patients
Computer & Technology Skills: Proficient with Exocad, ITK-Snap, and Dolphin software; experienced with 3D printers, 3D facial scanners, and multiple intraoral scanners
Interests: Playing drums, music production, traveling, and football

Background & Education

Bachelor of Dentistry and Oral Medicine – Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
Advanced Clinical Training in Orthodontics – University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Certificate in Orthodontics and Master’s in Oral Biology – University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), USA
Board-Certified Member – American Board of Orthodontics
Affiliated Member – American Association of Orthodontists

Research & Publications

Published in peer-reviewed journals including the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Korean Journal of Orthodontics, and the Journal of Orofacial Orthopedics
Research focuses on maxillary skeletal expansion, airway health, and micro-implant-assisted rapid palatal expansion
Served as Lab Manager for Dr. Won Moon’s 3D Orthodontic Lab at UCLA, coordinating research and streamlining publication processes

Volunteer Outreach Experience

Ronald Reagan Medical Center Face Transplant Team
- Participated in a multidisciplinary surgical team performing facial transplants involving skeletal and soft tissue reconstruction
- Constructed 3D models of patient skulls and soft tissue to assist in surgical simulation
Cairo University Mobile Clinic – Aswan, Egypt
- Joined a mobile clinic team providing free dental care to underserved communities in Upper Egypt

Outside the Office