820 84th St SW, Byron Center, MI 49315
Dentist explains dental implants
Implants
Home » Implants

Unlock the secret to a vibrant, confident smile that lasts a lifetime with dental implants!

Age is not a disease! At VanderLaan Family Dentistry in Byron Center, Michigan, we believe every patient deserves to enjoy strong, beautiful teeth and a confident smile at every stage of life. Our team provides preventive care to help protect your natural teeth for as long as possible. But when a tooth cannot be saved, we focus on prompt, effective replacement. One of the most advanced and reliable solutions available today is the dental implant.

Modern tooth replacement is designed to closely replicate the look and feel of a natural tooth. Dental implants offer strength and durability that make them stand apart from other options. Much like natural teeth, implant-supported restorations can last a lifetime with proper oral hygiene at home and routine dental visits.

What to expect from implants 

At its core, the dental implant is a small post made of biocompatible titanium. This material is well-accepted by the body and designed to act as an artificial tooth root. During the procedure, the implant is carefully and precisely positioned into the jawbone. Many patients are pleasantly surprised at how comfortable and straightforward the process is, often noting it feels easier than the tooth extraction itself.

To ensure your comfort, our team offers various options to help you stay relaxed during treatment. Once the implant has been placed, the surrounding bone gradually fuses with it in a natural process called osseointegration. This stage is vital, as it allows the implant to become a solid anchor for your new tooth. When healing is complete, the implant functions just like a natural root, providing stability and strength.

A custom-made dental crown, bridge, or denture is then securely attached to the implant. Because the restoration is firmly connected to the jawbone, it won’t shift or move out of place while eating or speaking. Another important benefit is that implants help preserve the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that often occurs when teeth are missing for an extended time.

Real Patients, Real Results
Before and After Images of Patients

More Results

Versatile tooth replacement options

Dental implants are highly adaptable. A single implant can support one crown, effectively replacing a missing tooth. Several implants can hold a dental bridge, restoring multiple teeth at once. For patients missing most or all teeth, a few strategically placed implants can anchor full dentures or partials. These implant-retained dentures offer far greater stability than traditional removable dentures, helping patients enjoy eating and speaking without worry. In some cases, existing dentures can even be modified to work with implants, enhancing comfort and confidence.

Enjoy the benefits of a confident smile

Dental implants do more than restore your appearance; they allow you to smile, chew, and speak naturally without compromise. With the added advantage of protecting jawbone health, implants are a long-term investment in both your oral function and overall well-being.

Now is the perfect time to restore your proud, confident smile. Call VanderLaan Family Dentistry today at (616) 288-2554 to schedule an appointment at our Byron Center office. Be sure to ask about our in-house VFD savings program when you call!

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.