First Avenue Dental is not what you expect from a dental office. There's no fluorescent lighting, no dated magazines, no rushed 20-minute appointments where you barely see the dentist before you're back in the waiting room.
We built this practice from the ground up to feel different — because we believe the experience of dental care matters just as much as the clinical outcome.
Dr. Faisal Shaikh is a Raleigh, NC native who earned dual degrees in Finance and Biology from NC State University before completing his Doctor of Dental Surgery at New York University College of Dentistry — one of the most clinically rigorous dental programs in the country. He returned to North Carolina to build a practice centered on clinical excellence, modern technology, and a patient experience that genuinely stands apart.
His advanced training focuses on dental implants (including placement and full-arch restorations), Invisalign clear aligner therapy, and cosmetic dentistry. He is a certified Invisalign provider and pursues ongoing education to deliver better outcomes — not to collect credentials.
Patients consistently describe Dr. Shaikh as calm, unhurried, and genuinely attentive. He explains findings clearly, listens before recommending, and takes a particularly thoughtful approach with anxious patients — using check-ins, stop signals, and a pace that puts you in control. When he's not practicing, Dr. Shaikh enjoys camping, fishing, and gardening with his wife and son.
Cheryl is the first voice you hear and the first face you see. She handles scheduling, insurance verification, and billing — keeping the practice running smoothly so your experience does too. Any questions about your appointment or coverage? She's your first call, and she has the answers.
Shenah works chairside with Dr. Shaikh on every procedure. She's thorough, detail-oriented, and especially skilled at putting anxious patients at ease — a quality that defines the care this practice is known for.
Ryah handles treatment planning and insurance coordination, making sure you understand your options — clinically and financially — before anything begins. No surprises, no pressure.
We are customer-focused and work together to provide innovative solutions that solve problems and improve patient care. We strive to develop and invest in employee growth and are proud that, as a Certified NC Minority-Owned business, we retain and attract diverse talent. We foster a close-knit, collaborative, and fun culture and offer frequent company events and volunteer opportunities. If you'd like to see opportunities available at First Avenue Dental, click here
See OpportunitiesCone-beam computed tomography delivers detailed three-dimensional views of your teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures — supporting precise diagnosis and treatment planning for implants, extractions, and complex cases.
Digital impressions without messy trays. Our Primescan captures highly accurate 3D models in minutes for faster, more comfortable crown, aligner, and restorative workflows.
Many crowns and restorations are designed and milled right here — often in a single visit — for fewer appointments, excellent fit, and natural-looking results.
On-site 3D printing supports surgical guides, models, and custom tools that improve planning accuracy and treatment efficiency from day one.
Our on-site lab gives us direct control over quality, timing, and customization — whether you need a same-day crown or a carefully matched restoration.
Your first visit at First Avenue Dental is deliberately thorough. We take the time to do it right from the start. You'll begin with updated X-rays, followed by a comprehensive examination with Dr. Shaikh. He'll review your dental and medical history, assess every tooth, evaluate your gum health, and take a full-mouth set of clinical records and photographs. Most first appointments run 60 to 90 minutes.
