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An effective preventative dentistry program would not be complete without a routine check-up. No routine check-up would be complete without our hygienists in Byron Center, Michigan, cleaning your teeth. Even if you consistently brush and floss your teeth well at home or on the go, these proactive services are still essential to your oral and overall health. Here, your friends at VanderLaan Family Dentistry explain “why” even the most stellar home care is not a substitute for professional expertise.
Sticky bacterial plaque film is constantly forming on the teeth. Even the most conscientious brushers and flossers among us cannot possibly keep up with this process. Some plaque will be left behind. And, when this happens, its hardened form cannot be removed with OTC products. Removing stubborn plaque build-up (tartar or calculus) requires specialized dental instruments and well-trained professionals. Our dental hygienists have the training and tools to gently and thoroughly remove plaque before it damages and threatens the structural integrity of your teeth.
During your cleaning, our hygienists also use a special instrument or probe to measure the spaces between the teeth and gums. These periodontal pockets grow larger as gum disease progresses. So, we can use these measurements to gain insights into both the presence and the extent or severity (“staging”) of gum or periodontal disease. Your cleaning visit is also accompanied by an exam conducted by our dentist, Dr. Matthew VanderLaan. These evaluations are critical because many oral conditions often produce little to no symptoms early into the disease process. You may think your teeth and gums are healthy as they “feel and look fine” but there may be a potentially damaging condition lurking underneath that requires attention. Only our professionals, with their expertise and advanced diagnostic tools, would know that, though.
In addition to removing bacteria and plaque, our hygienists also have the training and tools to remove surface stains from the teeth. This presents the easiest way to keep your teeth looking their healthiest and most vibrant shade. If stains are allowed to penetrate the deeper layers of the tooth, the only way to remove them may be with powerful professional whitening gels. Some forms of internal or intrinsic discoloration are so stubborn that even powerful whitening agents by the pros do not produce satisfactory results. In these cases, covering up the deeply yellow or stained tooth (with veneers or crowns) may be the only way to restore your most desirable, confident smile.
Halitosis is embarrassing, but stinky breath doesn’t have to be in your future. One of the most pleasant aspects of the teeth cleaning process at VanderLaan Family Dentistry is applying a minty-fresh paste to polish the teeth. Our patients love how refreshing this step feels! These and other steps in the process help manage and minimize the risk of halitosis. VFD’s interventions prevent harmful bacteria from flourishing and, in doing so, our team in Byron Center, MI, keeps your breath smelling pleasant, your teeth and gums healthy, and your smile attractive. Since oral conditions are also linked to many systemic conditions, you are also doing your body good when you maintain professional cleanings and exams. Call (616) 288-2554 to schedule your appointment today.
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 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.