A painless trip to the dentist? That’s what Dr. Abir Faraj of Abir Faraj DDS, PC in Novi is promising. Judging from the many smiles from people who enter her office eager for their appointments, it’s a promise she can easily keep.

As a specialist in general dentistry, Faraj, of Dearborn, says the best part of her job is being able to improve her clients’ smiles – an improvement that often leads to a change in their lives.

“It’s a very nice thing to have people come in and ask, ‘Can you improve my smile?’ which in many cases improves their lives.”

That instant gratification drives Faraj to be the best, which has earned her everyone else’s respect. Recently, an organization called topDentists asked area dentists this question: If a close friend or family member needed a dentist, and you yourself could not treat them, who would you recommend? Their answer: Dr. Abir Faraj. Their choice put Faraj on an exclusive list of the country’s top dentists for 2008.

“It’s an honor to have that respect from your colleagues,” Faraj said. “Helping people improve their smiles is so rewarding.”

Abir decided to become a dentist as a freshman in college. She went on to complete her dentistry studies at the University of Detroit-Mercy Dental School, where she learned the perfection that has defined her work. She also learned a lot from her father, who works as a service station owner and strives for perfection.

“My dad’s experience with business has helped me, being familiar with paying bills, payrolls, and paying taxes,” Faraj said.

Birth order may have something to do with her success, as well. Abir is the oldest of eight children. She says being born first made her more responsible.

“I felt like I was responsible to help out with my younger siblings,” she says. “I had to worry about brothers and sisters and the house.”

That serious sense of responsibility held true throughout her life, as Abir graduated college, got married, had three children, and opened up her own practice four years ago.

Today, she’s busy taking care of her business and her children: Seven-year-old Maya, 5-year-old Sara, and 10-month-old Hussein. She juggles kids and career with the help of her parents and husband, Fayez.

“I couldn’t do this without my family,” Abir said. “I reflect on that quite a bit. I do. I thank my parents all the time.”

She’s got her family, and now the love of her patients and peers. Perhaps, that’s the secret to living the life we all dream.*