Meet Dr. Zehra Syed

Board-Certified Birmingham Orthodontist

Zehra Syed, MBA, DMD, MSD is a board-certified orthodontist and the founder of Blue Lake Orthodontics. A Birmingham native, she returned home in 2021 to open the boutique, patient-first practice she always envisioned.

First Visit?

Returning Patient?

Get to Know Dr. Z

Hey everyone! I’m Dr. Zehra Syed (most patients call me Dr. Z!), and I’m so excited to welcome you to Blue Lake Orthodontics. I am genuinely passionate about helping my patients achieve the beautiful, confident smiles they desire all while providing a comfortable and easy orthodontic experience. Whether it’s in day-to-day life or in providing orthodontic care, my greatest happiness comes from the ability to help those around me laugh more, smile often, express joy, and exude confidence.

As a Birmingham, AL native, I grew up in the Oak Mountain community, where I was recruited to Mississippi State University to play soccer for the MSU Bulldogs (Hail State!). There, I pursued Bachelor’s degrees in Biology and Business and later attained an MBA before returning to Birmingham to embark on my dental education.

While at UAB School of Dentistry, I discovered the life-changing impact orthodontic treatment could have for patients in all walks of life. I loved the genuine connections and strong doctor-patient relationships that could be fostered throughout the course of treatment.

This profound interest in orthodontic care led me to the Medical University of South Carolina, where I completed a 3-year residency and served as Chief Resident. With a strong education in advanced surgical orthodontics, clear aligner therapy, growth modification treatments, and traditional braces, I completed my certification process to become a Board Certified Orthodontist.

Following my education, I returned home to Birmingham, AL, to live out my dream of being an orthodontist. I can’t wait to welcome you to our Blue Lake Orthodontics Family!

Education

  • Bachelor of Science in Biology from Mississippi State University
  • Bachelor of Arts in Business from Mississippi State University
  • Master of Business Administration from Mississippi State University
  • Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry
  • Master of Science in Dentistry and Certificate in Orthodontics from the Medical University of South Carolina
  • Board-certified orthodontist from the American Board of Orthodontics
  • Founder & Owner of Blue Lake Orthodontics (est. 2024)
  • AAO Resident Champion

Professional Memberships

  • American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)
  • Southern Association of Orthodontists (SAO)
  • Alabama Association of Orthodontists
  • American Dental Association (ADA)
  • Alabama Dental Association (ALDA)
  • Birmingham District Dental Society
  • American Board of Orthodontics (ABO)

Fun to know

  • Dr. Z enjoys an active outdoor lifestyle, including hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, and running with her golden retriever Reese.
  • She is creative and loves DIY projects, painting, and drawing. In fact, you will see some of her work showcased in Blue Lake Orthodontics!
  • Dr. Z loves attending sporting events, traveling, and attending concerts.
  • Family and friends are paramount in her life.

One orthodontist, from start to finish

Many of the families who find us have already experienced the frustration of seeing three or four different orthodontists at a larger practice. They often tell me how much that inconsistency affected their trust and made treatment feel less personal.

I understand why continuity matters. At Blue Lake Orthodontics, you and your child see me, a board-certified orthodontist, from the first consultation through the final retainer check. There is no rotating cast of providers and no need to explain your case to someone new at every visit. Just one orthodontist who knows your family, understands your treatment plan, and stays with you every step of the way.


Making smiles and headlines!   Making smiles and headlines!    Making smiles and headlines!    Making smiles and headlines!    Making smiles and headlines!    Making smiles and headlines!    Making smiles and headlines!    Making smiles and headlines!    Making smiles and headlines!    Making smiles and headlines!    Making smiles and headlines!    Making smiles and headlines!

As seen on WBRC

Fox 6, May 2025

Ready to Smile? Let’s Make It Happen!

New Patient?

Book online for a FREE consultation with our Vestavia Hills orthodontist. Just a click away — tap the button below to get started!

Already part of our smile family?

We’re thrilled to see you again! For your next appointment, please call us at (205) 291-0783 to book.

Office information

At our conveniently located office right off Highway 280, you’ll find a world of amenities just around the corner:

Right downstairs, you'll find Gentry Pharmacy for prescriptions and pharmacy goods.

But that's not all; our neighborhood is filled with healthcare and cosmetic neighbors, including Studio 21 for salon services, Cohn Plastic Surgery, and shopping malls like the Summit and the Colonnade.

This is just a taste of the many amenities and providers at your fingertips, all within reach of:

    • 3100 Blue Lake Dr., Suite 200
      Vestavia Hills, AL 35243

    Appointments Available

    Monday: 7:30 am - 4:30 pm
    Tuesday: 7:30 am - 4:30 pm (open for calls)
    Wednesday: 7:30 am - 4:30 pm
    Thursday: 7:30 am - 4:30 pm
    Friday: 7:30am – 2:00pm