820 84th St SW, Byron Center, MI 49315
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Cleanings & Prevention
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Protecting your smile and the rest of you with professional, trusted, preventative dentistry services

VanderLaan Family Dentistry is proud to support the health and well-being of our neighbors from across western Michigan – Byron Center, Wyoming, Dorr Township, Kentwood, Grandville, Wayland, Hudsonville, and everywhere in between!

One of the best things you can do for your health is to establish a dental home. The function of your teeth and gums contributes to the health of the whole self. Difficulty or discomfort when chewing food can adversely affect digestion and give rise to nutritional deficiencies. Furthermore, conditions such as advanced gum disease have been shown a strong correlation with an increased risk of developing diabetes, heart disease,  and other systemic diseases. 

Professional cleanings and prevention services can support oral health and overall health. Led by Dr. Matthew VanderLaan, our team helps patients minimize or eliminate their risks for conditions like dental decay and periodontal disease. Cleanings are generally performed during six-month check-ups. Our kind, patient, and skilled dental hygienists gently remove bacteria, plaque, stubborn tartar, and surface stains from the teeth and gum line. Lingering bacteria and plaque build-up (tartar) promote the development of destructive decay and gum disease, so regular removal is very important.

For healthy patients, the standard check-up is typical all that is necessary to keep your teeth and gums looking and feeling great, as well as maintain good health. We recommend more frequent visits for patients with risk factors for oral disease (such as tobacco use), so we are able to stay ahead of any oral conditions. Additionally, individuals with active gum disease may be candidates for deep cleaning, called Scaling and Root planning. 

Generally, routine professional cleanings are paired with a comprehensive exam, necessary radiographs, and an oral cancer screening by Dr. VanderLaan.  The idea is to catch problems early in the disease process. We can intervene before damage occurs. 

During these regular appointments/check-ups, Dr. VanderLaan may discuss other services to keep your smile healthy and looking great. These professional services include fluoride supplements, dental sealants, and oral appliance therapy (like “nightguards” and “mouthguards”). Some of these procedures can be completed during the check-up! 

Schedule your appointment today! VanderLaan Family Dentistry can be reached at (616) 288-2554. When you call our office in Byron Center, MI, ask about our VFD Dental Savings Plan! 

Dr. Matthew VanderLaan

Dr. Matthew VanderLaan is a highly skilled dentist with over 15 years of experience dedicated to personalized, patient-centered care. An alumnus of East Kentwood High School and the University of Michigan, he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. Having spent three years as a public health dentist, he established VanderLaan Family Dentistry in 2012. 

Dr. VanderLaan has pursued advanced training at the Pankey Institute, Kois Center, Dawson Academy, American Academy of Facial Esthetics, The Schuster Center, and is a Fellow of Implant Pathways. He is also trained in TMJ and pain management. As a member of the American and Michigan Dental Associations and West Michigan District Dental Society, he is committed to excellence and trustworthiness in dentistry.

Within his family practice, Dr. VanderLaan has been a civilian provider for disabled veterans of the United States Armed Forces.  Since 2014, He has partnered with the local VA and has had the pleasure of caring for individuals who have sacrificed their personal well-being for our Nation’s safety.  He considers it one of his greatest honors of being a dentist.

Outside of his dental practice, Dr. VanderLaan is an avid family man.  He enjoys his time with his wife of 17 years, Dana, as well as his four children (Brooke, 16, Jenna 15, AJ 11, and Nora 11).  As a family they enjoy the kid’s sports, music, involvement in their Church and Christian Faith community, and Michigan Football.  They also enjoy traveling and exploring the world together.  

Dana VanderLaan

Dana VanderLaan founded VanderLaan Family Dentistry with her husband, Dr. VanderLaan, in April of 2012.  She is versed in all administrative tasks and acts as the office manager.  Before her over 12 years of experience in the dental field, Dana graduated with a BSW from Saginaw Valley State University and an MSW from the University of Michigan, School of Social Work. Dana is a self starter, and was trained in dentistry completely on the job, and continues to learn new things about running an efficient, patient-centered dental office.

Along with her work at VFD, she is mom to her children (Brooke 16, Jenna 15, AJ 11 and Nora 11), and works tirelessly to make sure all of their needs are met, and devotes her time to being their #1 supporter.  She enjoys her family time, rooting on her kid’s at their various athletic events, school and church activities, traveling, walking and working out, gardening, and spending time at home.