(616) 288-2554
820 84th St SW, Byron Center, MI 49315
Call Us

New Patients: (616) 288-2554

Existing Patients: (616) 455-7310

Request An Appointment
Dentist examining the X-ray
Dental X-Rays
Home » Dental X-Rays

An introduction to safe, comfortable, precise technologies … to accurately detect early-stage oral problems

 Consistent visits to VanderLaan Family Dentistry in Byron Center, Michigan, are fundamental to keeping your mouth healthy and functional and your smile looking great. During these visits, our dentist, Dr. Matthew VanderLaan, will examine your teeth, gums, and other oral tissues and structures to look for any signs of problems, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or even TMJ dysfunction. For what he cannot see with his eyes or feel by touch (suspicious lumps can indicate oral cancers or pre-cancers), Dr. VanderLaan has a high-tech helper: digital dental X-rays and CBCT technology.

Diagnostics you can trust 

The digital X-rays we use at VFD are a low-radiation, no-waste alternative to conventional film-based imaging or radiography. Additionally, our investments in dental imaging support the most comfortable patient experience and accurate diagnostics. It is essential for us to use state-of-the-art tools that produce very clear and detailed images. These technologies reveal what we cannot visualize with the human eye or what we cannot feel by touch. 

Since imaging systems, such as digital and panoramic X-rays, provide a comprehensive, expansive view of the entire mouth, we can see and pinpoint any anomalies that might remain “hidden.” Often, oral conditions are “silent” or asymptomatic in their earliest stages. If symptoms of early-stage enamel or gum damage are present, they tend to be subtle and, thus, easily ignored. Patients rely on our diagnostic know-how and capabilities to detect what cannot be sensed easily. Our team can then recommend prompt treatment of problems such as small cavities, gingival inflammation, and pre-cancers. This approach furthermore avoids the damage that results in the need for potentially involved, invasive, and costly treatment to restore lost or deteriorated hard tissues (teeth and bone) and soft tissues (gums). 

We may also use these valuable diagnostics to track how well therapies or other oral care modifications are working to resolve problems like periodontal disease. 

To learn more about what to expect from our safe, sustainable, comfortable, and trusted diagnostics, call VanderLaan Family Dentistry at (616) 288-2554. We welcome your questions and look forward to meeting you and your family!

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.