Exploring the Journey of a Global Leader in Dentistry!
A smile can brighten someone’s day and boost their confidence. However, many people avoid smiling due to feeling self-conscious about their teeth. High-quality dental care should be accessible to everyone, not just the financially privileged.
With this skill, Dr. Kianor’s vision is not just helping people achieve healthy smiles but making high-quality dental care accessible to all. “I’ve been incredibly fortunate to pursue my passion for helping people while also building practical business models.” The prominent dentist and entrepreneur has just been named Top Dentist and Entrepreneur of the Year by the prestigious International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP). remarks, his warm smile putting patients instantly at ease as he helps build many Doctor-to-Doctor partnerships.
He reflects on this significant honor, Dr. Shah traces his inspirational journey from a childhood dream to his current standing at the forefront of his field. Dr. Shah briefly worked for a large corporate dental firm. However, the corporate culture’s emphasis on profits over people soon clashed with his ethos of providing individualized, empathetic care. “I couldn’t be the type of dentist and leader I wanted within that constraining environment,” he recalls. Thus, he took the entrepreneurial leap on opening a boutique practice committed to treating every patient like family.
Dr. Shah’s gamble paid off as his practice quickly flourished, fueled by his chairside manner’s rare merging of clinical expertise with relatability and a warm personality. As his business grew, he channelled that success into business and philanthropic initiatives such providing discounted or even free dental work for the underprivileged.
Now, this pioneering dentist-entrepreneur is being recognized by various organizations for modelling compassionate, ethical leadership alongside clinical mastery. As Dr. Shah prepares to accept the award, he expresses profound gratitude: “This honor isn’t about me, but about inspiring other healthcare professionals to prioritize both healing and heart versus corporate greed and profit. When you put your patients first, the financially rewards come, automatically.”
Let us learn more about his journey:
A Multifaceted Luminary in Dentistry and Entrepreneurship
Dr. Shah, a distinguished dentist, inventor, and entrepreneur hailing from Palm Desert, California, embodies a multifaceted professional with a rich amalgamation of experiences. Renowned as a traveling healthcare provider, Dr. Shah has lent his expertise to over 300 offices, showcasing his commitment to spreading knowledge and expanding access to quality dental care.
His academic journey is marked by excellence, having graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science from Western Illinois University in 2000, followed by the attainment of a Doctorate in Dental Medicine from Southern Illinois University in 2006. Dr. Shah further honed his skills by earning an MBA in international business at Brandman University in 2016.
Dr. Shah’s relentless pursuit of knowledge and mastery is evident through his affiliations with esteemed organizations such as the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, the California Implant Institute, and the International Academy of Dental-Facial Esthetics. These associations have culminated in his prestigious Mastership and Diplomate status within the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.
Beyond his clinical acumen in general dentistry, Dr. Shah’s expertise extends to prosthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, pedodontics, orthodontics, and oral surgery, showcasing his comprehensive skill set. Fluent in English, German, and Farsi, Dr. Shah’s linguistic versatility underscores his global outlook and cultural appreciation.
A true Renaissance individual, Dr. Shah’s interests span far beyond the realm of dentistry. His passion for world travel, public speaking, historical research, and sports like soccer, table tennis, and fitness exemplify a well-rounded persona dedicated to continuous growth and exploration.
As the founding regent of the Global Summits Institute and a key opinion leader for various companies and organizations, Dr. Shah’s stands as a hope for innovation and excellence in the healthcare industry, embodying a spirit of leadership and dedication to advancing dental care and entrepreneurial endeavours.
He has a unique approach to running his medical practice that has earned him rave reviews across multiple platforms. Located in Southern California, his facility is one of the only ones in the region to boast a perfect five-star rating on every review site.
The secret to his success lies in his passion to go above and beyond for his patients. Dr. Shah and his team strive to solve their patients’ problems, no matter how complex. They don’t argue about financial matters if a patient feels they have been overcharged, but instead, they immediately offer refunds. “Getting a patient a blanket or put your hand on their should and telling them everything will be alright, goes far with patients. Patient are people just like me and I treat them the way I would want to be treated.”
These small but impactful gestures, which go beyond typical business practices, are what set Dr. Shah’s practice apart. He understands that by catering to his patients’ needs and going the extra mile, he can truly brighten their days and nurture a positive, lasting relationship.
Through his unique approach, Dr. Shah has not only built a thriving practice but has also earned the trust and loyalty of his patients and colleagues across the world. His zeal for superiority and patient-centric care is an example of his dedication and the exceptional quality of his services.
Pioneering Efforts in Dental AI and Oral Surgery
Dr. Shah has established himself as a trailblazer in the dental industry. As a traveling healthcare provider, he has practiced in over 300 offices, honing his expertise in various dental specialties, including Prosthodontics, Periodontics, Endodontics, Pedodontics, Orthodontics, and Oral Surgery.
Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Shah has founded and/or co-founded numerous organizations that aim to elevate the dental profession. One such endeavour is the Dental Ai Association (DAIA), which he co-founded with Dr. Zahra Khosravi and Dr. Reza Khosravi, two Orthodontists. The mission of the Dental AI Association marks a pioneering step towards the integration and advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in dentistry. As the first of its kind globally, the Association commits to spearheading education, innovation, research, and setting ethical standards while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration within the dental and AI communities. This initiative is poised to revolutionize dental healthcare services by enhancing their quality and accessibility worldwide through advanced AI applications. “As healthcare providers and to maintain autonomy in our own industry, we must regulate, exert oversight, and set policy for this unregulated affair before it falls into the hands of the third parties.” Dental professionals such as dentists, specialist, and hygienists are encourage to join this movement at Dentalaia.org
Another such endeavour is the Academy of Oral Surgery (AOS), which he co-founded with Dr. Kayvon Javid, DDS, PhD. The mission of the AOS is to provide a pathway for practicing dentists and their team members to obtain the education and training necessary to perform advanced procedures, such as extractions, implants, and bone grafts, with competence and confidence.
Dr. Shah’s vision extends beyond the clinical realm, as he recognizes the transformative potential of emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI). He believes that AI will play a crucial role in shaping the future of dentistry, stating that “AI is going to be used tremendously to advance vast majority of issues that we encounter in dental practices.” Furthermore, Dr. Shah contends that the first trillionaires of our time will emerge from the AI sector, not just in dentistry but across various industries, especially those individuals who use AI to provide solutions to common everyday problems.
Acknowledging the inevitability of technological progress, Dr. Shah advocates for the dental profession to proactively adapt and leverage AI-driven solutions. He emphasizes the importance of using AI to improve the quality of human life, streamline the doctor-patient relationship, and remove unnecessary third-party involvement. By positioning himself and his organization at the forefront of this technological revolution, he aims to empower dentists and enhance patient care.
Dr. Shah’s multifaceted approach, encompassing clinical excellence, entrepreneurial vision, and technological foresight, positions him as a transformative figure in the dental industry. His passion for ingenuity and his pursuit of solutions that benefit both practitioners and patients underscore his role as a visionary leader shaping the future of dentistry.
Transforming Healthcare: The Global Vision
Being the founder of the Global Summits Institute and other prestigious organizations, Dr. Shah regularly convenes with a network of hundreds of executives and partners. His primary objective is to unite doctors worldwide to enhance patient care, autonomy, and benevolence. Through monthly meetings, he shares his vision and progress on various projects aimed at this noble goal.
Dr. Shah’s efforts have culminated in a vast array of initiatives, each spearheaded by doctors in different sectors, including finance, administration, and academia. These projects, often identified by unique acronyms, signify a concerted effort to restore the primary relationship between doctors and patients, unencumbered by the interference of third parties such as management companies, regulatory agencies and insurance companies.
Among these endeavors is the creation of a “dream team” comprising 100 leading doctors and the Top Doctor movement involved more than 150 country constituents. Amongst a host of objections, the team aims to establish a globally recognized educational institution that offers higher education, oversight, advocacy, and governance accepted in the medical and dental fields rooted in the Hippocratic Oaths. Dr. Shah has also co-initiated the Academy of Oral Surgery and the Dental AI Association, leveraging artificial intelligence to revolutionize the practice of dentistry.
His professional journey spans 18 years, during which he has made significant strides in alleviating patient suffering. He founded the World’s Top Doctors movement in 2020, expanding it to include over 800 doctors from 156 countries. His goal is to grow this network to 1,000 doctors by 2025, creating a global presence that underscores the importance of a united front.
One of his notable achievements is the Doctors’ World Gala, an event that attracts hundreds of doctors worldwide. The Gala, which has been held in Sardinia, Italy in 2023 and then again in 2025, serves as an event for medical and dental professionals to share knowledge and collaborate on future advancements in healthcare. “Lifelong friendships are made there by leaders of industry from across the globe.”
Additionally, Dr. Shah has launched the first fund specifically for dentists, enabling them to invest in companies that align with their professional understanding. He is also a co-founder of the Dental AI Association, where he educates doctors about the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on healthcare practices.
His vision extends to creating a dental hospital that embodies collaboration across specialties, similar to a medical hospital. It is to be the first organ shape smart facility in human history. This facility, planned to be located near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), will provide comprehensive dental care and education. The hospital will feature multiple medical and all dental specialties, an emergency room, and a hotel designed next door to accommodate patients from around the world for medical-dental tourism.
In his ongoing efforts, Dr. Shah emphasizes the need for a return to a patient-centric approach in healthcare, free from the undue influence of non-medical entities. His initiatives, such as the proposed University School of Health, aim to provide a holistic educational environment that integrates clinical and business aspects of healthcare devoid of regulatory interference. “The quality of Medicine and Dentistry or standards of care should not change by region because of accreditors, third parties, or regulators or in this century. The Doctrines of Medicine and Dentistry have survived the millennia!”
Academic and Professional Journey
Dr. Shah, a distinguished high school graduate akin to a valedictorian in the German educational system, demonstrated exceptional determination throughout his academic odyssey. Transitioning to the United States, he embarked on a Bachelor of Science at Western Illinois University, specializing in Biology while also delving into minors in Chemistry and German Literature.
Following the successful attainment of his Doctorate in Dental Medicine from Southern Illinois University, Dr. Shah opted to advance his knowledge and broaden his perspectives by pursuing an MBA in International Business at Brandman University. Intrigued by the potential benefits of financial acumen in his career, he delved into the financial sector, equipping himself with the expertise necessary to enhance the management of his private practice.
During his MBA studies, he engaged in part-time roles supporting general practitioners in conducting complex oral surgeries, a pivotal experience that laid the foundation for his innovative doctor-to-doctor system. This system, aimed at fostering enhanced collaboration among dentists, reflects his commitment to maximizing professional synergies within the dental community.
Within the field of healthcare, a novel approach surfaced, devised by an imaginative mind aiming to promote a cooperative atmosphere among physicians. Dr. Shah, an astute businessman and lifelong learner, understood the benefits of allowing medical professionals to share business knowledge and improve patient care in their own offices. Motivated by the decentralized character of blockchain technology—which essentially removes the ability for third parties to exert influence or control—he envisioned a system in which practitioners could preserve their independence and freedom as professionals.
“Through this,” he eloquently stated, “it is possible to maintain autonomy and freedom over your profession.” His words resonated deeply, as the medical domain underwent shifts that slowly eroded the independence of healthcare providers amidst intensifying competition by private investors in a lucrative business. “It may work in other industries but there is a conflict of interest in healthcare.”
Guided by his penchant for seizing opportunities and facilitating peer-to-peer networking, Dr. Shah established the International Extraction Academy in 2013. This pioneering continuing education program equipped general dental practitioners with the necessary skills to perform office-based oral surgeries, effectively bridging the gap and empowering them to provide comprehensive care to their patients. Through IEA’s training, dentists not only acquired cutting-edge techniques but also gained the ability to collaborate and expand their practices internally.
Building upon this success, he orchestrated the Global Implantology Summit in 2018, a monumental event that attracted over 500 participants and garnered the support of 63 prestigious sponsors. Emboldened by the Summit’s triumph, he embarked on an ambitious series of doctor-to-doctor events, including a roundtable executive summit in 2019, the prestigious World’s Top 100 Doctors, and the groundbreaking Global Interdisciplinary Summit.
Through his visionary initiatives, Dr. Shah has paved the way for a paradigm shift, nurturing a culture of collaboration, continuous learning, and professional autonomy within the medical community. His desire to empower healthcare providers and elevate patient care has solidified his legacy as a trailblazer, reshaping the landscape of dentistry.
Global Interdisciplinary Summit
The Global Interdisciplinary Summit, a meticulously curated forum akin to a TED Talk, delves into the realms of motivation and innovation, boasting a diverse array of speakers hailing from over 70 nations, generously offering their expertise and insights. In response to the unforeseen challenges posed by the escalating COVID-19 pandemic, the Summit seamlessly transitioned from a physical gathering to a virtual platform, embracing an open-source ethos.
This adaptation was met with resounding acclaim, drawing an impressive audience of over 2.2 million healthcare providers over 45 consecutive days. Such was the overwhelming success of the summit that it has now evolved into a regular weekend fixture, sustaining its impact and reach.
Renowned for his extensive experience and profound insights, Dr. Shah discerns a notable shift within the industry. With a keen eye on the emerging cohort of dentists burdened by unprecedented student loan debts, his counsel resonates deeply. His wisdom echoes a powerful message: resist the allure of corporate servitude and dare to pursue the dream of establishing a personal practice, unshackled by apprehensions of financial uncertainty. Drawing from his own illustrious journey, he underscores the abundance of tools and networking avenues available, urging aspiring practitioners to seize these opportunities with resolute resolve.
In the immortal words of Archimedes, “Give me a lever long enough and a fulcrum on which to place it, and I shall move the world.” Dr. Shah’s narrative serves as an alarm of inspiration, illuminating the path towards professional fulfilment and personal empowerment and urging individuals to harness their potential and shape their destinies with steadfast determination.
One Celebrated Achievement in a Continuum of Successes
Dr. Shah has garnered numerous prestigious awards and global recognition for his outstanding contributions. This year, he stands poised for a feature in the esteemed TIP (Top Industry Professionals) Magazine, an example of his exceptional accomplishments. His upcoming accolade as Top Dentist and Entrepreneur of the Year at IAOTP’s annual awards gala, set to take place at the opulent Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville this December, further solidifies his position as a leader in his industry.
Stephanie Cirami, the esteemed President of the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP), expressed unequivocal admiration for Dr. Shah, affirming that his selection was a natural choice for the panel. Describing him as an inspirational, influential, and visionary thought leader, she eagerly anticipates the opportunity to honor his achievements at the forthcoming gala.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Shah attributes his remarkable success to his perseverance, strong work ethic, and the invaluable guidance of his mentors. Beyond his professional endeavours, he finds joy in exploring the world through travel, engaging in public speaking engagements, delving into historical research, and participating in sports such as soccer, table tennis, and fitness. With a vision to continue inspiring and influencing aspiring professionals in the field, Dr. Shah remains committed to making a lasting impact on the industry he holds dear.
