From Assisting Her Sister to Inspiring the Community
Celebrating International Women’s Day means recognizing the incredible women who inspire us, push boundaries, and pave the way for future generations. Dr. Sherin Zarghouni, a passionate and driven dentist at Brookshire Smile Dental, is one of those women. Her journey to success isn’t just about perfecting smiles—it’s about empowering others to believe in their own.
Here, she shares her thoughts on pursuing a career in dentistry, overcoming challenges, and empowering other women along the way.
Q. Can you share a bit about your background before stepping into this field? What motivated you to make the transition?
A. How a Summer at Dental School Changed Everything
Dr. Zarghouni’s love for dentistry didn’t start in a classroom or textbook—it began in the summer heat. At just 15 years old, she spent her breaks assisting her sister at dental school, watching patients transform as their smiles brightened. “I was hooked,” she says, reflecting on those early experiences. “I saw firsthand how something as simple as a smile could change someone’s entire day. I wanted to be part of that.”
Her decision was clear: psychology as a major at the University of Houston and dentistry as her long-term goal. She knew that dentistry wasn’t just about dental work—it was about connecting with people, making them feel seen and cared for.
Q. Were there any moments when you doubted yourself or your decision to pursue this field? How did you overcome those doubts?
A. Of course, the path wasn’t always easy. Dr. Zarghouni admits that like many women in the field, there were moments of doubt. “Dental school was tough. There were sleepless nights, moments where I wanted to quit—but I never did,” she says with a smile. Her secret? “Stay positive, keep pushing forward, and remember why you started. I always told myself that it was going to be worth it.”
Q. What advice do you have for women looking to pursue their passion while maintaining a healthy work-life balance?
A. “If it makes you happy, don’t give up—even when the going gets tough. There’s no wrong time to follow your passion.”
Q. What changes or improvements would you like to see in your industry to make it more inclusive for women?
A. One of the most rewarding aspects of Dr. Zarghouni’s career is her dedication to giving back. Through her initiative of offering free dental exams to children at local schools, she’s not only educating them about the importance of oral hygiene but empowering them to take charge of their own health.
“It’s about making a difference, even if it’s just one child at a time. Teaching them healthy habits early can have a lifetime impact,” she says proudly. This hands-on approach speaks to her genuine desire to serve the community beyond the dental chair.
Q. Who has been the most influential woman in your life, and why?
A. When asked about the most influential woman in her life, Dr. Zarghouni’s answer is clear: her sister. “She’s been my mentor, my guide, my biggest supporter. Watching her work, seeing her dedication—it motivated me to push through my challenges,” Dr. Zarghouni says.
Her sister’s mentorship was more than just professional—it was about providing emotional support, lifting each other up, and making sure that no matter the obstacles, they stayed focused on their goals.
Q. What message would you like to share with women who are striving to find their voice or confidence?
A. Dr. Zarghouni’s message to women everywhere is simple but powerful: “Just be you.” She believes that embracing your uniqueness is the key to standing out. “The world doesn’t need another version of someone else—it needs YOU,” she says.
This belief in individuality is what drives her both as a dentist and as a role model for other women. “Don’t try to fit into someone else’s mold. Your path is yours to define, and that’s what makes you special.”
Q. How do you continue to grow professionally and personally, and how do you stay motivated?
A. Even with a thriving career, Dr. Zarghouni never stops growing. Whether it’s taking continuing education courses or traveling with her family to explore new cultures, she’s constantly finding inspiration. “I believe learning is lifelong. Traveling keeps me curious and motivated—it helps me stay connected to the world and bring new ideas to my practice.”