Meet Dr. Andrew A. Dela Rama

A Love for Dentistry

I am extremely blessed to be a dentist. It’s gratifying to see patients’ face light up when I take off their braces and unveil their new smile. Even after 20+ years of practicing, I'm still overwhelmed when a patient thanks me after I’ve taken away the pain, or fixed a tooth that has been bothering them. I know I have truly made a difference in their life.

I love everything about dentistry (self proclaimed dental nerd!). It's mindblowing to think how a tooth forms from a minuscule cell into the teeth that we use everyday. I am amazed by how we, as dentists, can take any situation a patient may present and engineer a solution that works for their unique needs. You wouldn't believe some of the newest innovations that dental technology has brought, and we try to incorporate that into our practice as much as possible.

At the same time, I love the humanistic aspect of dentistry and connecting with my patients. I love how dentistry is not just tooth-related, but has implications for the entire body. I’m not just working on a person’s oral health: I am working to restore them to their optimum health.

Education and Continuing Education

• Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science – University of San Francisco
• Doctorate of Dental Surgery – Creighton University Medical Center School of Dentistry

I’m very passionate about continuous learning. My dental career has taken me to so many places that I'm grateful to have learned from. I was a former Assistant Clinical Professor at the UC San Francisco School of Dentistry. I’ve attended programs in TMJ disorders, cosmetic dentistry and certifications in full bracket orthodontics at Progressive Orthodontic Seminars®. It’s only by constantly expanding my knowledge and strengthening my skills that I’m able to meet the needs and expectations of my patients.

Professional Memberships

• American Dental Association
• Academy of General Dentistry
• American Academy of Clear Aligners
• California Dental Association
• San Mateo County Dental Society

Personal Life

I grew up in South San Francisco and after I graduated from dental school, returned to my hometown to establish my career. My home life is shared with my wife Marjorie (another dentist in our practice), and our two daughters, Madison and Averie.

Spending time with my family, when I’m not caring for my patients, is my favorite past time. We love traveling together, family movie nights and everything Disney (including Star Wars & Marvel). I’m also really passionate about exercise: I've run full marathons, completed Olympic distance triathlons (including Escape from Alcatraz twice), and finished the Spartan Race Trifecta and Lake Tahoe's Tough Mudder in the same year. After earning my black belt in Tae Kwon Do during high school, I've now renewed my passion for martial arts once again: boxing, Muay Thai, and I am currently a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. For me, exercise is cathartic; it helps me clear my mind and refresh myself mentally.

Of course, being a Bay Area native, I’ve been a diehard fan of the Giants, 49ers, and Warriors since birth!