Meet Dr. Andrew A. Dela Rama

General Dentist in South San Francisco treating TMD & Orthodontics

Dr. Andrew A. Dela Rama is a general dentist in South San Francisco with advanced training in temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD/TMJ), Invisalign & bracket orthodontics, and minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry using the Bioclear Method. His approach to dentistry focuses on the relationship between the teeth, jaw joints, and muscles, allowing him to treat not just symptoms, but the underlying causes of dysfunction, discomfort, and esthetic concerns.

Education and Multidisciplinary Background

• Undergraduate: University of San Francisco
• Post Baccalaureate Program: University of California, San Francisco
• Dental School: Creighton University Medical Center

In addition to his dental training, Dr. Dela Rama has a background in physical therapy, which plays a key role in how he evaluates and treats patients. This multidisciplinary perspective allows him to better understand how muscle function, joint position, and biomechanics influence oral health, particularly in cases involving TMD and bite instability.

He has continued his education through advanced training programs, including the Las Vegas Institute (LVI) for neuromuscular TMD treatment, as well as Progressive Orthodontic Seminars (POS) for orthodontics and Invisalign therapy. He has also completed advanced training in the Bioclear Method, a modern approach to cosmetic bonding.

Expertise in TMD and Functional Dentistry

Dr. Dela Rama has a special interest in the diagnosis and treatment of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). His clinical approach focuses on identifying the root causes of jaw pain, headaches, clicking, and bite instability by evaluating the relationship between the muscles of mastication, the jaw joints, and the teeth.

Using a combination of muscle therapy, bite analysis, and, when appropriate, orthodontic or restorative treatment, he develops personalized treatment plans aimed at improving long-term function and stability. His goal is not only to relieve symptoms, but to create a balanced, sustainable bite.

Invisalign and Orthodontic Treatment

With advanced training in orthodontics through Progressive Orthodontic Seminars, Dr. Dela Rama provides Invisalign or metal & ceramic braces treatment to address misalignment, crowding, and bite discrepancies. Orthodontic treatment in his practice is often part of a larger functional plan, particularly for patients experiencing TMD symptoms or bite-related issues.

By integrating orthodontics with functional and restorative care, he is able to help patients achieve results that are not only esthetic, but also stable and comfortable over time.

Cosmetic Dentistry and the Bioclear Method

Dr. Dela Rama incorporates the Bioclear Method into his cosmetic dentistry treatments as a conservative alternative to traditional veneers and crowns. This technique allows for the reshaping and enhancement of teeth using composite materials while preserving natural tooth structure.

Bioclear can be used to close black triangles, improve tooth proportions, and enhance overall smile esthetics in a minimally invasive way. This aligns with his philosophy of preserving healthy tooth structure whenever possible while still delivering high-quality cosmetic results.

Clinical Philosophy and Approach

Dr. Dela Rama’s approach to dentistry is centered on comprehensive, individualized care. Rather than focusing on isolated procedures, he evaluates how each part of the oral system works together—teeth, muscles, and joints—to create a treatment plan tailored to each patient’s needs.

His background in both dentistry and physical therapy allows him to approach complex cases from multiple angles, particularly in patients with bite issues, muscle tension, or chronic discomfort. The goal is always long-term stability, function, and esthetics.

Life Outside the Office

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Dela Rama enjoys staying active through Brazilian jiu-jitsu, weight training, and spending time with his wife and children. His interest in physical fitness and movement further supports his understanding of biomechanics and muscle function, which carries over into his clinical work.

As a proud Filipino-American practicing in his hometown of South San Francisco, he values building strong relationships within the local community and providing care that is both personalized and patient-focused.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

What conditions does Dr. Dela Rama treat?
Dr. Dela Rama provides comprehensive dental care with a focus on TMD/TMJ disorders, bite issues, Invisalign orthodontics, and cosmetic treatments including Bioclear bonding.

Does Dr. Dela Rama treat TMJ/TMD?
Yes. He has advanced training in TMD and neuromuscular dentistry and focuses on diagnosing and treating the underlying causes of jaw pain and dysfunction.

Does Dr. Dela Rama offer Invisalign?
Yes. He provides Invisalign treatment to correct alignment, improve bite function, and enhance smile esthetics.

Does Dr. Dela Rama offer braces?
Yes. He provides treatment using fixed metal or ceramic braces to correct alignment, improve bite function, and enhance smile esthetics.

What is the Bioclear Method?
The Bioclear Method is a modern cosmetic bonding technique that allows for minimally invasive smile enhancement without the need for traditional veneers or crowns.