11
Mar
Why implants are a stable, long-lasting solution for missing teeth (hint: the “secret” is in the design!)
The roots of our teeth are important. Each root anchors its respective tooth in the jawbone. Yet, until dental implants came, this essential part of the tooth structure went unconsidered. Bridges and dentures, for the longest time, only accounted for the visible parts of the teeth, not the critical foundational components. So, implants are truly changing how dental practices like VanderLaan Family Dentistry rebuild teeth.
How do you place implants?
The implant serves as the replacement tooth root. From our office in Byron Center, Michigan, Dr. Matthew VanderLaan inserts the implant into the area of the missing tooth. The implant is made from highly compatible materials with the surrounding bone. These materials are so compatible that the bone in the jaw will grow naturally and safely with the implant. Once the jawbone and implant are integrated, we can move on to the next phase: restoring the implant with the replacement tooth.Â
What if I’m missing more than one tooth?
No problem! While one implant may be attached to anchor a single replacement tooth or dental crown, we can place two or more implants to anchor several replacement teeth. Four to six implants may be surgically inserted and secured in the jawbone to stabilize all replacement teeth in the upper or lower dental arches (as part of an upper or lower denture).Â
Why does it matter that we replace the roots of the teeth?
By replacing the roots of the teeth with implants, we support the utmost stability of the replacement teeth. Unlike conventional dental bridges and removable dentures, implant-supported options are stabilized in the jawbone. They are connected to the bone through the implant(s). Stability is essential to the prosthetic teeth’ comfort, function, satisfaction, and lasting durability. Our patients have peace of mind that options like implant-supported dentures are not going anywhere and that they will stay put, whether eating chewy food or laughing without holding back. This is an especially important feature for our patients at VanderLaan Family Dentistry who wear lower dentures.Â
Real Patients, Real Results
Before and After Images of Patients
Implant and Crown to replace/restore necrotic front tooth
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New Patients: (616) 288-2554 | Existing Patients: (616) 455-7310
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What is the problem with conventional lower dentures?
Lower dentures have unique challenges. First, it’s important to understand that conventional dentures require a good fit because they must conform well to the surrounding natural tissues in the mouth. There must be a strong seal between the denture appliance and those tissues. This fit can be elusive in the lower jaw due to the challenging horseshoe shape of the floor of the mouth. The lower jaw also has less surface area than the upper jaw or palate, which can present additional challenges to how the denture fits. Adding to these complications is the fact that the sheer force of the tongue can dislodge the denture. For this reason, many wearers of lower dentures have to use special products like adhesive to help with retention. All of these problems can be avoided with lower dentures supported by implants instead of natural suction or adhesive alone! Plus, these dentures keep the jawbone healthy and strong, too. So, issues with the fit of the denture degrading over time are also avoided.Â
To find out more about the many modern options to replace missing teeth, schedule a consultation by calling our office in Byron Center, MI, today at (616) 288-2554.
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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.