Dr. Cristiane Estrela, BDS, MSc, PhD

Dr. Cristiane Estrela serves as a Clinical Associate Professor of General Dentistry at the Workman School of Dental Medicine, where she brings extensive international teaching and clinical experience to the education of future dental professionals. With more than 20 years of experience teaching at both predoctoral and graduate levels, she is dedicated to advancing evidence-based, patient-centered care while mentoring students to become confident, skilled, and compassionate clinicians within High Point University’s experiential learning environment.

Dr. Estrela earned her Bachelor of Dental Surgery (B.D.S.) from the Federal University of Goiás, followed by a Master of Science in Endodontics and a Doctor of Philosophy in Endodontics from São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara. Prior to joining the Workman School of Dental Medicine, she served as Predoctoral Director of Endodontics and Program Director of Endodontics at Paulista University School of Dentistry in Goiânia, Brazil, where she played a key role in curriculum development, clinical training, and faculty leadership.

Her clinical and academic interests include guided endodontics, magnification, and ultrasonics in endodontics, mechanized file systems, and periapical surgery. Dr. Estrela has published in peer-reviewed journals and contributed to book chapters, reflecting her commitment to advancing dental science and improving patient outcomes. She is passionate about patient-centered, evidence-based care—placing patient safety, individualized treatment planning, and clinical excellence at the forefront while teaching students to make thoughtful, informed decisions that lead to the best possible outcomes.

At the Workman School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Estrela fosters a collaborative and supportive learning environment that encourages innovation, critical thinking, and a deep commitment to excellence in both clinical care and dental education.