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 remained at the forefront of modern dentistry. Her dedication to continuing education ensures that every patient benefits from the most current science, advanced technology, and proven treatment methods.
She holds an undergraduate degree in Psychophysiology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and has completed more than 2,700 hours of post-graduate training. Her studies span physiological and neuromuscular dentistry, TMJ therapy, holistic care, implantology, and aesthetic rehabilitation—areas that all contribute to her comprehensive approach.
Dr. Nehawandian is one of only 1% of U.S. dentists to achieve Mastership status with the Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD). She also holds multiple fellowships that reflect her commitment to excellence and to treating the mouth as part of the body’s larger system of health.
What Is a Physiological Dentist?
As a leader in Physiological Dentistry, Dr. Nehawandian focuses on the relationship between teeth, muscles, and jaw joints. Her goal is to restore the body’s natural balance—helping patients find relief from jaw pain, headaches, and bite problems that often go undiagnosed in traditional dentistry.
Her advanced certifications in neuromuscular dentistry, TMJ diagnosis and treatment, and full-mouth rehabilitation allow her to identify and correct functional issues at their source. This approach improves comfort, reduces strain, and supports overall health.
Dr. Nehawandian is a Fellow of both the International Association of Physiologic Aesthetics (FIAPA) and the International College of Cranio-Mandibular Orthopedics (FICCMO). These distinctions recognize her expertise in managing complex TMD conditions and restoring proper oral system function.
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
Certified in Neuro-Muscular Dentistry
Certified in Full mouth Rehabilitation and Cosmetic Dentistry
Certified in TMJ Diagnosis and Treatment
Certified in Implant Surgery and Restoration
Certified in Laser Dentistry
Certified in Conscious Sedation Dentistry
Certified in Invisalign Clear Braces
Certified in Sleep Apnea/Snoring Appliances
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.
