Get help to stop grinding your teeth, and break free of the headaches. We have several locations with experts in treating bruxism in Madison, WI.
Continue readingSix Things You Need to Know About Root Canals
Dental Health Associates Wins Best of Madison & People’s Choice
Celebrating Community Recognition
At Dental Health Associates of Madison (DHA), everything starts with people—our patients, our team, and the community we serve. The trust you place in us and the smiles we share make recognition like this deeply meaningful.
This year, we’re honored to have been recognized by two respected community award programs: the Madison.com People’s Choice Awards and the Best of Madison Awards.
People’s Choice Awards
DHA was voted Best Dental Practice, Best Orthodontist, and one of the Favorite Places to Work in the 2025 People’s Choice Awards. You can see the awards page here: Madison.com People’s Choice / Readers’ Choice.
These honors spotlight both the quality of care our patients receive and the team environment we’ve worked hard to build. Being named one of the favorite places to work means everything, because when our staff feel supported, our patients benefit too.
What our patients are saying:
“Everyone is so welcoming and kind. They always make me feel comfortable.”
“The entire team—from the front desk to the hygienists—makes every visit stress-free.”
Best of Madison Awards
We were also honored in the Madison Magazine, Best of Madison 2025, earning Gold for Best Dental Practice and Silver for Best Orthodontist.
These awards reaffirm the trust our patients place in us and the consistent dedication of both our dental and orthodontic teams across all DHA clinics.
More words from our patients:
“The orthodontic staff is outstanding. They explained everything clearly and made the process easy.”
“I’ve been coming here for years and always recommend DHA to friends and family.”
Thank You to Our Team and Community
Behind every award is the incredible commitment of our team: dentists, specialists, management team, hygienists, assistants, coordinators, and support staff who bring their best every day.
We’re equally thankful to our patients and the Madison community. Your trust, feedback, and loyalty are what make DHA one of Madison’s top choices for dental and orthodontic care.
Moving Forward Together
These awards are more than honors, they motivate us to keep growing, improving, and caring for you with excellence. From all of us at DHA, thank you for your support!
Transforming Smiles: A Comprehensive Guide to Orthodontic Options for All Ages
Embarking on the journey to a healthy, beautiful smile is an exciting endeavor that knows no age limits. Whether you’re considering orthodontic treatments for your child or contemplating a transformative change for yourself as an adult, the world of orthodontics offers a diverse range of options to suit every individual.
Orthodontics for All Ages: It’s Never Too Late
While the common association with braces often centers around the teenage years, the truth is that orthodontic treatments are not exclusive to any age group. Today, adults are embracing orthodontic solutions more than ever, realizing that it’s never too late to achieve a confident and radiant smile.
Understanding Orthodontic Mechanics
Orthodontic treatments work by gently guiding teeth into a new and improved position. Whether opting for traditional braces, ceramic alternatives, or clear aligners like Invisalign®, the goal remains the same: to create a healthier, aesthetically pleasing smile.
Early Intervention for Children, Lifelong Benefits
For parents considering orthodontic options for their children, early intervention can bring numerous advantages. Evaluating potential needs as early as seven years old allows orthodontists to identify and address developmental issues before they become more complex. The benefits extend beyond aesthetics, encompassing aspects like speech improvement and long-term oral health.
Modern Metal Braces: Vibrant, Comfortable, Effective
Traditional metal braces have undergone a significant transformation. Today’s braces are less intrusive, with smaller brackets and lighter wires for enhanced comfort. The ability to customize tie colors adds a fun element, making the orthodontic journey an expressive experience. This option is not only suitable for teens but also for adults requiring more complex orthodontic treatments.
Ceramic Braces: Subtle Strength for All Ages
Ceramic braces provide an excellent alternative for those seeking a more discreet option. With clear or tooth-colored brackets, they offer strength and durability while maintaining a subtle appearance. This makes them an ideal choice for adults who prioritize both effectiveness and aesthetics.
Clear Aligners: Invisible Confidence for Adult Smiles
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign®, have gained immense popularity among adults. Their nearly invisible appearance and removable trays make them a preferred choice for those conscious about their smile’s appearance. The flexibility to remove aligners while eating and cleaning adds an extra layer of convenience.
It’s crucial to exercise caution when considering “At Home” options for clear aligners. These alternatives often lack the supervision of an orthodontist, making them less than ideal for a comprehensive orthodontic plan. For a safe and effective solution, we strongly recommend working directly with an experienced orthodontist who can provide personalized guidance and oversight throughout your orthodontic journey. Your smile deserves the expertise and care that only a qualified professional can offer.
Consulting with Your Orthodontist: Personalized Solutions
Choosing the right orthodontic treatment is a collaborative decision with your orthodontist. Dental Health Associates, with years of expertise and a compassionate approach, is here to assist you in selecting the best option for your unique needs.
It’s Never Too Late to Transform Your Smile
Whether you’re a parent exploring options for your child or an adult seeking a confidence boost through orthodontic treatments, it’s never too late to transform your smile. Request a free orthodontics consultation today and take the first step towards achieving a healthier, more beautiful smile at any age.
Request a Free Orthodontics Consultation
Protect Your Teeth While Playing Sports
There are few things more exciting than watching your child play sports. But as a parent, you must ensure your child is protected from dental injuries. Here are some tips to help you keep their smile safe.
Wear a mouth guard when playing contact sports.
Playing contact sports can be a great way to get physical exercise and enjoy some friendly competition, but it is important to bear in mind the potential for injury. The best way to protect yourself is by wearing a mouth guard. Not only do mouth guards shield your mouth from being directly impacted by another player or object, but they can also reduce the severity of injuries by cushioning any blows and absorbing energy before it reaches your jaw. Luckily, mouthguards come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find the perfect fit no matter what sport you play. With a mouth guard firmly in place, you will have less to worry about while playing contact sports and more time to focus on having fun!
Wear a helmet to protect your teeth.
Did you know that wearing a helmet not only protects your head, but it is also a powerful way to safeguard your teeth? Even if you think the risk of damaging your teeth is low, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. So, the next time you go on an adventure, don’t forget to wear a helmet.
Preparing for dental emergencies.
Be prepared for any dental emergency with the proper protection! Wearing a mouth guard and helmet when playing sports can help secure your teeth from injury, but what else do you need to know? Our emergency dental care services are here to provide all your needs if an unexpected incident should occur. From broken molars or chipped tooth enamel – we are here to give support whenever those pearly whites take a hit.
Thanks for reading, and we hope this information was helpful!
Understanding Dental Crowns: Benefits, Procedure, and Types
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a prosthetic restoration that covers and protects a damaged or weakened tooth. It is custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth, providing strength, durability, and aesthetic improvement. Dental crowns can restore the function and appearance of a tooth while preserving its remaining structure.
When is a Dental Crown Needed?
- Tooth Decay: Crowns are used when a tooth has extensive decay that cannot be repaired with a filling.
- Fractured or Broken Teeth: Teeth that are cracked, chipped, or broken can be restored with crowns.
- Root Canal Treatment: After a root canal, a crown is often placed to protect the treated tooth.
- Large Fillings: When a large filling compromises the structural integrity of the tooth, a crown can provide reinforcement.
- Cosmetic Enhancement: Crowns can be used to improve the appearance of misshapen, discolored, or severely stained teeth.
The Dental Crown Procedure:
- Evaluation: Your dentist will examine your tooth, take X-rays, and discuss treatment options with you.
- Tooth Preparation: The tooth receiving the crown will be reshaped to accommodate the crown’s thickness.
- Impression: An impression of your tooth will be taken to create a precise mold for the dental laboratory.
- Temporary Crown: While your permanent crown is being fabricated, a temporary crown will be placed to protect the tooth.
- Crown Placement: Once the permanent crown is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and bond the permanent one in place using dental cement.
- Adjustment and Polishing: The crown will be checked for proper fit, bite, and appearance. Adjustments may be made, and the crown will be polished for a natural finish.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DENTAL CROWN PROCEDURE
Types of Dental Crowns:
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): These crowns have a metal substructure for strength with a porcelain exterior for a natural appearance.
- All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain: These crowns offer excellent aesthetics, mimicking the translucency and color of natural teeth.
- Metal Crowns: Made of alloys like gold or base metals, they are known for their durability and strength.
- Zirconia Crowns: These crowns are made of a strong ceramic material, providing both strength and esthetics.
Caring for Your Dental Crown:
– Practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily.
– Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods that may damage the crown.
– Schedule regular dental check-ups to ensure the crown’s stability and overall oral health.
– Wear a nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth to protect the crown from excessive force.
Benefits of Dental Crowns:
- Tooth Protection: Crowns provide a protective layer over damaged or weakened teeth, preventing further decay, fractures, or wear.
- Improved Functionality: Dental crowns restore the shape, size, and strength of damaged teeth, allowing for better chewing, biting, and overall oral function.
- Aesthetic Enhancement: Crowns are custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, improving the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or poorly aligned teeth.
- Durability: With proper care, dental crowns can last for many years, providing long-term functionality and aesthetics.
- Versatility: Crowns can be used to address various dental issues, including tooth decay, cracks, fractures, large fillings, root canal-treated teeth, and cosmetic enhancements.
- Stain Resistance: Depending on the material used, dental crowns can be highly resistant to staining, maintaining their color and brightness over time.
Risks and Considerations of Dental Crowns:
- Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after crown placement. This usually subsides on its own but can be managed with desensitizing toothpaste or dental treatments.
- Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, individuals may have an allergic reaction to the materials used in the crown, such as metals or dental ceramics. It is essential to discuss any known allergies with your dentist.
- Tooth Sensitivity or Nerve Damage: Preparing the tooth for a crown may involve removing a portion of the tooth’s structure, which can result in temporary or, in rare cases, persistent tooth sensitivity. In rare instances, nerve damage may occur during the preparation process.
- Tooth Decay: While dental crowns protect the underlying tooth, proper oral hygiene is crucial to prevent decay at the crown’s margin or in the surrounding teeth.
- Crown Failure or Damage: Although rare, dental crowns can fracture, chip, or become loose over time. This is more likely to happen with excessive force, grinding, or biting on hard objects.
- Adjacent Tissue Irritation: In some cases, the gum tissue around the crown may become irritated or inflamed. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can help prevent or address such issues.
Remember, every case is unique, and your dentist will recommend the most suitable type of crown for your specific needs. If you have any questions or concerns, consult with your dentist, who will guide you through the process of getting a dental crown and help you achieve a healthy and confident smile.
FIND A DENTIST NEAR YOU
Are You Afraid Of The Dentist? Five Ways Dental Work Has Changed
Do you have a dental phobia? You’re not alone. But, dentistry doesn’t have to be scary. Check out five ways dentistry has changed for the better.
Continue readingHonoring Dr. Dan O’Brien & Welcoming Dr. Zach Quam to DHA
Honoring Dr. Dan O’Brien & Welcoming Dr. Zach Quam to DHA
After nearly 37 years of dedicated service, Dr. Dan O’Brien is retiring from Dental Health Associates. Throughout his career, Dr. O’Brien has been a trusted provider, a mentor, and a friend to many. His kindness, expertise, and commitment to patient care have left a lasting impact on our team and the countless patients he has cared for over the years. While we will deeply miss seeing him in the clinic, we celebrate his incredible career and wish him all the best in this next chapter.
As Dr. O’Brien steps into retirement, we are excited to welcome Dr. Zach Quam, who will be continuing his legacy at our South Clinic in Fitchburg. A Madison native and Monona Grove High School graduate, Dr. Quam has a long-standing connection to DHA—having been a patient himself. Now, as a provider, he looks forward to giving back to the community that helped shape his journey in dentistry.
Dr. Quam specializes in aesthetic dentistry, helping patients achieve beautiful, confident smiles. He also finds great fulfillment in providing relief from pain and discomfort, ensuring that every patient feels valued and well cared for. His dedication to patient trust and comfort is at the core of his approach.
Beyond his clinical expertise, Dr. Quam is passionate about community outreach. He has volunteered with “Give Kids a Smile Day,” providing essential dental care to underserved children, and he looks forward to continuing to make a positive impact. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, fishing, hunting, and staying active through weight training and running.
We are confident that Dr. Quam will be an outstanding addition to our team and will continue the exceptional care that Dr. O’Brien has provided for so many years. Please join us in expressing our gratitude to Dr. O’Brien for his years of service and in welcoming Dr. Quam to the DHA family!
Expanding Our Endodontic Care: Welcoming Dr. Marilyn Henry to Sun Prairie!
Meet Dr. Marilyn Henry: Our Newest Endodontic Specialist!
Dr. Henry’s Background
Originally from the Cincinnati area, Dr. Henry’s passion for dentistry led her to earn her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Kentucky. After six years of practicing general dentistry, she further honed her expertise by completing a Master of Science and Endodontic Certificate from The Ohio State University.
Compassionate & Patient-Centered Care
Dr. Henry’s background in general dentistry provides her with a unique perspective on treatment planning and long-term tooth preservation. She’s a lifelong learner, always staying at the forefront of endodontic advancements to offer you the best possible care. Her patients appreciate her gentle touch, clear communication, and commitment to helping them achieve optimal oral health.
We understand that endodontic procedures can be stressful. Dr. Henry’s approach to patient care is grounded in empathy and a genuine desire to create a positive experience. She’ll take the time to listen to your concerns, explain your treatment options clearly, and make you feel as comfortable as possible throughout your visit.
Madison’s Top Dentists 2024: DHA’s Extensive Network Delivers Timely, High-Quality Dental Care
From left to right, starting at the top: Dr. David Allen, Dr. Ammar Alsamawi, Dr. Audi Long, Dr. Stephen Schasker, Dr. Matthew Lorson, Dr. Amjad Nazzal, Dr. Nick Anders, Dr. Brent Killian, Dr. Andrew Brodek, Dr. Patrick Elliott, Dr. Kent Killian, Dr. Nathan Kroll, Dr. Allen Skibba, Dr. Leah Johnson, Dr. Daniel O’Brien, Dr. Aldrin Sangalang, Dr. Brian Sweeney, Dr. Beth Wagner, Dr. Jake Bjork, Dr. Michael Grode, Dr. Matthew Roggensack, Dr. Adela Brodek, Dr. Qingze Lv, Dr. Lindsay Rozendaal, Dr. Ross Toigo, Dr. Patrick Kolker, Dr. Chad Schwitters, Dr. Catherine Brumm and Dr. Jim Sands
Meet Madison’s Top Dentists of 2024
Offering everything from first dental appointments to cosmetic enhancements, we are a local, doctor-owned practice with the area’s largest network of partnered dentists. Because of this, we can provide a wide range of services in a seamless and efficient dental experience.
“Imagine having all your dental needs addressed under one roof — from routine cleanings and checkups to specialized procedures like orthodontics, endodontics or periodontics,” says Dr. Aldrin Sangalang, partner and family dentist at Dental Health Associates’ (DHA) Fitchburg location.
Having an extensive network of providers enables us to give patients immediate access to a diverse group of specialists, streamlining care and eliminating the need for time-consuming referrals. We also provide patients with coordinated treatment plans through in-house collaborations between general dentists and specialists. This allows us to seamlessly communicate and plan for optimal results.
Enhancements in technology also give us an edge. “Technology will impact dentistry more in the next 10 years than in the previous 20,” says Sangalang. “Scanners — no more impressions — have been a game changer. AI is very new to dentistry, but I see it helping us give optimal care to our patients.”
Our team of excellent dental professionals is here to bring out your best smile. If you have any more questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please use our online appointment request form.
Expanding Our Periodontics Team: Welcoming Dr. Jenna Hang!
Meet Dr. Jenna Hang: Our Newest Periodontics Specialist!
We are excited to announce the newest member of our team at Dental Health Associates: Dr. Jenna Hang, a skilled Periodontist who will be practicing at our Fitchburg Clinic. With her extensive experience in periodontology, Dr. Hang brings a unique blend of advanced surgical skills and a compassionate approach to patient care that we know will greatly benefit our patients.
Dr. Hang is committed to treating her patients like family, ensuring they feel comfortable and cared for throughout their dental journeys. Her dedication to compassionate care has earned her a reputation as a trusted provider in the field. With a passion for helping others, Dr. Hang takes pride in creating personalized treatment plans that meet the unique needs of each patient.
In addition to her impressive clinical expertise, Dr. Hang stays at the forefront of advancements in periodontology, regularly engaging in continuing education and research. This commitment ensures that her patients receive the highest standard of care backed by the latest evidence-based practices.
As we expand our periodontics team, we are thrilled to have Dr. Hang on board, and we are confident that her contributions will enhance the quality of care we provide. Please join us in welcoming her to our dental family!
To learn more about Dr. Jenna Hang and her background, click the button below.