11
Mar
Professional dental cleaning: 4 steps to brighter teeth and a healthier mouth!
Cleanings are an essential part of effective oral hygiene programs. When VanderLaan Family Dentistry talks about cleanings, we refer to brushing and flossing your teeth at home and in-office cleaning services (dental prophylaxis). The “prophy” is performed in four steps by our talented dental hygienists in Byron Center, Michigan.Â
Step No. 1: Remove plaque and tartar
After you are seated and relaxed in one of our treatment chairs, your hygienist will use a small dental instrument to lift the sticky bacterial plaque from your teeth. This tool or scaler also removes plaque build-up, tartar, or calculus that cannot be removed with standard toothbrushes and OTC oral care products. Our hygienists also use a diligent yet gentle hand to clean the area above and slightly under the gumline.Â
Step No. 2: Â Oral irrigation
During this step, our hygienists apply good old H20 to loosen and break up the plaque and tartar, making it easier to rinse off and remove. We also use a special tool to suction away the remaining water. None of this will hurt. If anything, it should feel nice and refreshing!
Step No. 3: The polishÂ
After we have ensured there are no lingering food debris, surface stains, plaque, and tartar, a safe yet abrasive toothpaste is applied to the teeth. This polishing paste is typically flavored to make your mouth feel minty-fresh! The reason this paste feels grittier than most is to aid in smoothing the surfaces of the teeth. This process brings out the brilliant, natural shine of your teeth. You may even be able to choose from other tasty flavors besides mint. As a finishing touch, your teeth are thoroughly flossed. Any remaining paste is rinsed away. So, all you feel is a nice smooth surface, and all you see are gleaming white teeth.
Call Our Office for More Information
New Patients: (616) 288-2554 | Existing Patients: (616) 455-7310
Request An Appointment
Step No. 4: After-care
Throughout your cleaning, our hygienists can also discuss and demonstrate ways to better clean your teeth; for instance, we can answer any questions about good flossing techniques. We may provide samples of products that are good for overcoming any obstacles to home care. For example, if you have a dental bridge, we may provide you with floss threaders, dental picks, and small interdental brushes.
Of course, the cleaning is within the broader context of the six-month dental checkup. No checkup would be complete without a comprehensive oral exam and medical review. Our team at VanderLaan Family Dentistry will get up to speed on any health changes since your last cleaning and exam. These changes could affect your oral health. Dr. Matthew VanderLaan will examine your mouth for any changes and potential signs of problems, from tooth decay and gum disease to oral cancers. Periodically, X-rays are taken. Depending on what Dr. Matthew finds during your exam, they may also be ordered on an as-needed basis. If it’s been more than six months since your last visit to our office in Byron Center, MI, call (616) 288-2554 to get back on schedule.Â
Share this Article
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.