At Top Down Dental in San Jose, Dr. Nancy Nehawandian’s philosophy is simple yet transformative: focus on the whole patient, not just their teeth. She believes exceptional dentistry blends science, artistry, and compassion. Guided by the principle of treating others as they wish to be treated, her practice has become a trusted destination for patients seeking comfort, balance, and naturally beautiful smiles.

A Commitment to Lifelong Learning

Since earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of the Pacific in 1989, Dr. Nehawandian has stayed at the forefront of modern dentistry. She continues to study and train so every patient benefits from the latest science, advanced technology, and proven techniques.

She earned her undergraduate degree in Psychophysiology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and has completed more than 2,700 hours of additional training. Her education covers many areas, including physiological and neuromuscular dentistry, TMJ therapy, holistic care, implant dentistry, and aesthetic restoration. Each discipline supports her well-rounded approach to dental health.

Dr. Nehawandian is part of an elite 1% of U.S. dentists who hold a Mastership with the Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD). She has also earned several fellowships that highlight her dedication to excellence and her belief that oral health is an essential part of whole-body wellness.

What Is a Physiological Dentist?

As a leader in physiological dentistry, Dr. Nehawandian studies how the teeth, muscles, and jaw joints work together. Her goal is to restore natural balance and relieve problems such as jaw pain, headaches, and bite misalignment—issues that are often missed in traditional dental care.

She holds advanced certifications in neuromuscular dentistry, TMJ diagnosis and treatment, and full-mouth rehabilitation. This training allows her to find the root cause of functional problems and correct them with precision. Her approach helps patients experience better comfort, less muscle strain, and improved overall health.

Dr. Nehawandian is a Fellow of the International Association of Physiologic Aesthetics (FIAPA) and the International College of Cranio-Mandibular Orthopedics (FICCMO). These honors reflect her skill in managing complex TMJ disorders and restoring the harmony of the oral system.

A Holistic, Whole-Body Perspective

While her focus is on function and balance, Dr. Nehawandian’s care always considers the body as a whole. Her holistic perspective means every treatment is designed to promote total wellness—from using biocompatible materials to addressing sleep-disordered breathing and airway health.

She also offers advanced aesthetic and implant solutions as a Las Vegas Institute Fellow (LVIF) and Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (FICOI). Through this training, she has transformed smiles with dental implants, cosmetic enhancements, and full-mouth rehabilitation that restore natural beauty and function.

Treating Patients From the Top Down

Dr. Nehawandian’s philosophy extends beyond restoring teeth—it’s about empowering patients to understand and care for their oral health. Her compassionate, patient-centered approach combines advanced skill with personalized education so patients can make confident choices about their treatment.

Her dedication to learning and her achievements in neuromuscular, aesthetic, and implant dentistry have earned her repeated recognition as one of America’s Top Dentists. Patients appreciate not only her technical excellence but also her warmth, honesty, and ability to make complex care feel comfortable.

Outside the Office

When she’s not helping patients, Dr. Nehawandian enjoys life in Saratoga with her husband and two children. They love skiing and exploring the mountains together—always finding new ways to balance family, health, and joy.

Education

  • 1985—University of California, Santa Barbara –Psychophysiology
  • 1989—University of Pacific School of Dentistry-DDS

Professional Qualifications

  • Over a 2,700 hours of Post Graduate Continuing Education (State requirements are 25 hours per year)
  • Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry (2015)
  • Orthodontics Curriculum at LVI
  • Practical Advanced TMD

Advanced Qualifications

Professional Achievements

  • Master of Academy of General Dentistry, MAGD (2015)
  • Fellow of Academy of General Dentistry, FAGD (2006)
  • Fellow of International Congress of Implantologists, FICOI (2008)
  • Fellow of LVI Global of Advanced Dental Studies , LVIF(2010)
  • Fellow of International Association of Physiologic Aesthetics, FIAPA (2014)
  • Fellow of International College of Cranio-Mandibular Orhopedics, FICCMO (2012)
  • Past board member of Santa Clara Dental Society, Chapter of CDA and ADA
  • Fellow of International College of Implantology

Professional Awards

  • Consumers’ Research Council of America, America’s Top Dentist 2008
  • Consumers’ Research Council of America, America’s Top Dentist 2011
  • Specialized Dental Practitioners Award 2013
  • Consumers’ Research Council of America, America’s Top Dentist 2014
  • National Consumer Advisory Board, America’s Best Dentists 2016

Professional Dental Memberships

  • ADA – American Dental Association
  • CDA – California Dental Association
  • SCCDS – Santa Clara County Dental Society
  • AGD – American Academy of General Dentistry
  • IAPA – International Association of Physiologic Aesthetics
  • DOCS – Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation
  • ICOI – International Congress of Oral Implantologists
  • ICCMO – International College of Cranio-Mandibular Orthopedics
  • AADSM – American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine
  • IABDM – International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine
  • IAOMT – International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology

Discover Comprehensive Care in San Jose

Whether you’re seeking relief from TMJ discomfort, restoring balance through physiological dentistry, or transforming your smile with Invisalign, dental implants, or full-mouth rehabilitation, Top Down Dental offers care that supports both oral and overall wellness.

To learn more or schedule your visit, call our San Jose dental office at (408) 354-5600 today.